Published on: July 1, 2025

Author: Jeremy Skupien

When the Storm Hits, Let Gratitude Be Your Shelter

We’ve all faced moments when life feels like a storm—relentless winds of worry, waves of regret, and the chilling rain of uncertainty. But what if, even in the center of that storm, we could discover calm, peace, and purpose?

The AA program teaches us that sobriety is not just about stopping a behavior—it’s about transforming how we live. Each sober day becomes a building block for new habits and a deeper understanding of ourselves. As we move forward, day by day, the fear and effort we once felt begin to give way to peace and purpose.

One of the most powerful tools on this journey is gratitude.

Gratitude isn’t just a feeling. It’s a practice—one that anchors us in the present, strengthens our spirit, and shifts our mindset from survival to serenity. Below are three powerful and practical ways to cultivate gratitude in your daily life, even when things feel hard.

1. Start a Gratitude Journal

It may sound simple, but writing down what you’re grateful for each day can completely change your outlook. Studies show that when we train our minds to notice the good, our brains begin to naturally look for more of it.

How to Start:

• Grab a notebook or open a notes app.
• Each morning or night, list three things you’re grateful for.
• Be specific and keep it real.

Examples:

• The way your coffee smelled this morning.
• A friend who checked in with you.
• Getting through a tough moment without falling apart.

Don’t wait for perfect days. On hard days, gratitude helps you find light in the dark. Write about what challenged you, and what it taught you. That counts too.

2. Practice Presence with Others

The AA meditation says we should “leave each soul the better for having met you or heard you.” This is less about impressing people—and more about being present.

When you’re truly present for someone, you’re saying: “You matter. This moment matters.” That’s a form of gratitude.

Ways to Practice:

• Put your phone away when talking with someone.
• Make eye contact. Really listen.
• Speak gently, even when stressed.

This applies to everyone: family, coworkers, strangers. A simple kind word or calm presence can ripple outward more than you know. And when you give that energy, it often comes back to you.

3. Give Thanks in the Storm

It’s easy to feel grateful when things are going well. But real growth shows up when we can be grateful even when things are hard.

The AA reading reminds us to trust in the goodness and purpose of life—even in sorrow or difficulty. It doesn’t mean pretending everything’s okay. It means saying: “There’s still meaning here. There’s still growth here.”

Try This:

Next time you feel overwhelmed, pause and breathe. Then say:

“I’m grateful for what this moment is teaching me.”

Maybe it’s patience. Or strength. Or clarity. There’s always something—if we’re willing to look.

Pro Tip:

Set an alarm on your phone labeled “Gratitude Pause.” When it goes off, stop what you’re doing, breathe, and give thanks for one small thing.

Gratitude won’t always change your circumstances. But it will change you. And that changes everything.

Final Thoughts: Gratitude Is the Gateway

Gratitude isn’t just a reaction to good things. It’s a decision. A daily choice to see what’s still good, to connect with others, and to trust the process—even when the process is messy.

One day at a time, you’re building something real. Something beautiful. Something strong.

So wherever you are today—whether you’re walking through a storm or soaking in the sunlight—practice gratitude. Let it root you in the moment. Let it calm your fear. Let it open your heart.

Come Back Tomorrow—There’s More Light Ahead

Each day brings new challenges, but also new chances to grow in calm, trust, and gratitude. Check back daily for more reflections, tools, and encouragement on your path. You’re not alone—and you’re not stuck.

Your storm won’t last forever. But your peace can.

Subscribe to stay grounded. Return to stay growing.