It’s almost that time of the year: Turkey Time! This Thanksgiving is a perfect time to reflect on what you’re thankful for. It may sound cliché and you might expect a kumbaya moment to follow, but drop the self-judgment and ask yourself: How often do you sit down and truly think about your blessings?

There’s no time like the present, so let’s do it now. Here are things I am thankful for:

• Second chances. Or maybe it’s a third or fourth chance. Numbers don’t matter in this case, but what’s important is the opportunity to start fresh. Priceless.
• A roof over your head. Whether you have a place of your own or you’re staying in a sober living facility, a warm, dry home is something to be grateful for.
• Support system. Supportive friends and family can make all the difference. Think about those who have been by your side during tough time. Better yet, tell them how much they mean to you. Express your gratitude in a letter or tell them in person.
• Community. Many people in recovery find strength in helping others. An AA quote says, “Our common means of deliverance are effective for ourselves only when constantly carried to others.” Helping others to help yourself furthers your recovery efforts.
• Daily life. Sobriety has brought a newfound clarity to your everyday hustle and flow. Whether it’s waking up with a clear mind, your cat Fluffy, enjoying a meal with a loved one or watching your favorite TV show, living sober has transformed your daily routine. Look at the even the smallest elements of the day and see how they’ve been transformed—for the better—through your recovery and treatment.
• The future. When today is hard, always remember there’s tomorrow. Be grateful that you have the clarity and wisdom to recognize this.
• Faith. Faith is personal and unique to each person, but many credit God or their spirituality for their recovery. One anonymous quote expresses the influence of God in his or her life: “The more I shared secrets that I thought were so awful, the more people were drawn to me and I to them. I found some serenity when I got out of the driver's seat, I found God working in my life.” God works in mysterious but good ways, and that’s something to be thankful for.

How do you help others? Please share at @SoberChi!