76. A Thanksgiving of Renewal & Gratitude

Thanksgiving has always been a time to reflect on the blessings in our lives—a chance to pause amid the rush of everyday responsibilities and reconnect with family, friends, and the values we hold dear.  This year, however, Thanksgiving carries an even deeper meaning for me.  After walking the difficult road of addiction and finding my way back to sobriety, I see this holiday as more than a day of celebration.  It is a powerful reminder of the second chances life offers and the importance of embracing them with gratitude and purpose.

For many years, the joy of Thanksgiving was overshadowed by the struggles of addiction.  While my family gathered around the table, exchanging smiles and laughter, I often felt disconnected—physically present but emotionally absent.  Addiction has a way of isolating you, even when you’re surrounded by love.  It strips away your ability to be truly present, replacing connection with guilt and a gnawing sense of inadequacy.

This year, things are different.  After my relapse earlier this year, I had to face some hard truths about myself and my recovery journey.  By checking myself into detox and rehab at Bon Secours Hospital, I made a choice to fight for my life.  It wasn’t easy—detox was brutal, and the emotional work of rehab challenged me in ways I never expected.  But slowly, I began to rebuild, one day at a time.  Then, as I prepared to celebrate Thanksgiving, I was filled with gratitude not only for the progress I’ve made but for the chance to begin again.

This past Thanksgiving marked the first time in months that I could sit at the table fully present and genuinely grateful.  Sobriety has given me clarity, allowing me to appreciate the moments that once slipped by unnoticed.  I no longer take for granted the warmth of my family’s laughter, the familiar smells of a home-cooked meal, or the simple pleasure of being included in the traditions that bind us together.

This holiday was special because it represents more than a celebration—it is a testament to resilience and the power of second chances.  I now understand that Thanksgiving isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up, being present, and appreciating the opportunity to grow and heal. For me, this means cherishing every moment with the people who stood by me through my darkest days and finding hope in the promise of a brighter future.

Gratitude is a cornerstone of my recovery.  In the past, I often overlooked the small blessings in my life, consumed by the chaos of addiction.  Now, I make it a daily practice to acknowledge and appreciate the good in my life, no matter how small it may seem.  This past Thanksgiving, my gratitude felt boundless.

I am deeply thankful for my family, whose unwavering support has been a lifeline throughout my journey.  Their patience and understanding remind me that love truly is unconditional.  I’m also grateful for the professionals who guided me through this difficult process, particularly my counselor, David.  His wisdom and encouragement helped me believe in my ability to recover, even when I doubted myself.

I am grateful for the opportunity to continue coaching youth soccer—a job that allows me to inspire and guide others, just as I’ve been inspired and guided.  Seeing the determination and joy in the faces of my players reminds me of the importance of resilience and teamwork.

Finally, I am grateful for the chance to share my story.  Whether through my column in the Independent Republican or the TED Talk I gave on addiction and recovery, I’ve found purpose in using my experiences to help others.  Each word I write and each story I tell is a step toward healing—not just for myself but for anyone who may be struggling in silence.

This Thanksgiving, I want to create a new tradition rooted in gratitude and reflection.  As I sit down to enjoy the meal with my family, I plan to take a moment to share what I’m most thankful for this year. Beyond that, I want to use this day as a reminder to carry gratitude into every day of my life.

Gratitude isn’t just about acknowledging the good times; it’s about finding the silver lining in the challenges we face.  It’s about recognizing that even our darkest moments can lead to growth and transformation.  This past Thanksgiving, I reminded myself that recovery is not a destination but a journey—and every step, no matter how small, is worth celebrating.

While Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the past and give thanks for the present, it’s also an opportunity to look ahead.  Sobriety has taught me that life is filled with possibilities, even after setbacks.  I may not know exactly what the future holds, but I am committed to approaching it with hope and determination.  I will savor the food, the laughter, and the love that fills the room this Thanksgiving.  But more importantly, I will carry with me the lessons I’ve learned in recovery: that gratitude is a powerful tool, that connection is essential, and that every day offers a chance to start anew.  This Thanksgiving is more than a holiday; it is a celebration of resilience, renewal, and gratitude.  After years of struggling with addiction, I am finally able to approach this day with a clear mind and an open heart.  Sobriety has given me a second chance at life, and for that, I am profoundly thankful.

As I sit at the table with my family this year, I will cherish the moments that once felt out of reach.  I will honor the journey that brought me here and look forward to the future with hope.  Most importantly, I will remind myself that gratitude is not confined to one day a year—it is a way of life, a daily practice that keeps me grounded and inspired.

This past Thanksgiving is special not because it marks the end of my struggles but because it symbolizes the beginning of a new chapter.  And for that, I am deeply, endlessly grateful.

And remember, if you’re struggling or know someone who is struggling, please don’t lose hope.  If that had happened to me, I wouldn’t be able to help spread awareness today.