Spotlight on Gratitude A Conversation with Gwen Henderson

Despite the challenges you’ve faced, what keeps you grateful?

First and foremost, I am grateful to God. Without His grace, I know I would not be here today. My son, Eric, has been my angel on earth. During my addiction, my greatest fear was leaving behind a painful legacy — that my son’s mother had died an addict. That fear stayed with me through multiple treatment attempts until twenty-eight years ago, when I finally reached a breaking point. My pain had become greater than my desire to continue living that way. I called my son, and he helped set in motion my final treatment — one that would change everything. Today, my grandchildren—now 25, 22, and 17—have never known “drunk Granny.” 

Four years ago, my health took a terrifying turn; doctors told my family I had only 24 to 48 hours to live. My son slept in the hospital parking lot both nights. But God had another plan. At the same time, my great-granddaughter was born. Though my family prepared for my passing, I felt peace knowing my great-granddaughter would grow up hearing about the best version of me — the sober woman my grandchildren know.

Every time I hug my son, grandchildren, great-granddaughter, my family, and friends, I am overcome with gratitude. I thank God for giving me grace and for giving me a son who never let go of my hand through the darkness. Despite the many challenges of life, God’s mercy and my son’s unwavering love keep me grateful every day.

 

Early in recovery, who were your positive guides helping you stay on track?

My greatest motivation came from the thought of my son, Eric, carrying the legacy of a mother who died an addict. He didn’t deserve that. I didn’t deserve that. Alongside him, I had two incredible sponsors who became pillars of strength and wisdom.

My first sponsor, Olivia, taught me the importance of living the Twelve Principles of AA in every area of life. She helped me understand while perfection isn’t the goal, honesty and willingness are. When I fell short, I could choose to do better—always learning, never defeated.

My second sponsor, Diana, introduced me to my ego in the most humbling way. She would say, “If it’s outside your nose, it’s none of your business.” She never scolded me but guided me gently, challenging my thinking and holding me accountable. Whether I realized it or not, she helped me grow spiritually and emotionally. Both women showed me how to walk in truth, humility, and grace.

 

What personal quality do you value most?

My genuine smile—it comes from within. My smile reflects my inner peace and love. It’s a reminder that no matter how heavy life gets, light still exists. I’ve learned to trust my instincts and maintain strong boundaries, avoiding places or people that drain my spirit.

Even in painful moments, I can smile through tears because I’ve learned to see hope in hardship. My faith anchors me. Time and again, God has proven that He shows up when I step aside and allow Him to work. Surrendering control can be hard—I often think I need to manage everything — but in truth, I can only control my behavior. My daddy once told me, “Your smile will bring you joy, even in hard times, and may bring joy to others.” He was right. That lesson has stayed with me, and I’m forever grateful for it.

 

What practice helps you cultivate a sense of thankfulness?

Each morning begins with quiet time with God—through prayer and meditation. Before I do anything else, I align my spirit with gratitude. I read books that lift my heart and bring spiritual peace. Soft jazz plays throughout my day, its rhythm keeping me grounded in calm awareness. Often, while listening, I whisper “Thank You” to God for the simple blessing of life itself.

Photography also fills me with deep gratitude. Behind the lens, I feel a sacred connection to creation—it’s what I call “God’s Eyes.”

Every photo becomes a form of prayer, capturing beauty in moments both grand and simple. Through these practices, I remain centered in peace, love, and thanksgiving.

 

How can we pay gratitude forward year-round?

Kindness—pure, intentional kindness—is the way to carry gratitude forward every day. We must be kind to one another, with our time, words, and our hearts. None of us are too busy or too important to show compassion. Be the listening ear someone needs.

Share your resources—especially with the homeless, who need support not only during extreme weather but every single day. Be kind to those struggling with addiction or mental health challenges. Be kind to our children, our elders, our sick, our animals, and our earth. Kindness is a divine ripple; one act can touch countless lives. And through it all—smile. A smile is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to express gratitude and love.

 

What was the best thing that happened today that made you grateful?

I reunited with my niece—the first time since she was born in 1979. Hugging her filled me with emotion and overwhelming gratitude. Her daughter, my grandniece, now attends the University of Arizona here in Tucson, playing on the women’s baseball team. Seeing her thriving made my heart swell with pride.

Most importantly, I woke up this morning with a sound mind, a healthy body, and a clean, sober spirit. That alone is enough to make me grateful every single day.

 

Gwen Henderson brings 27 years of extensive experience in the field of Mental & Behavioral Health. She has served in roles as an Executive Director, CEO, Vice-President, Business Development Representative/Director and Consultant for Behavioral Health facilities. In addition, she has provided services as a clinician, case manager, post-intervention planning, recovery advocate and various other roles supporting individuals and families.