The writer says that for them, God is most vivid in consciousness when in the depths of despair and asking for help.  But another reason for prayer is to acknowledge gratitude.  The writer suggests that gratitude itself is a healing force and becomes more real when we make part of our routine prayer.  The reminder says:  I will keep myself aware of the many blessings that come to me each day and remember to be thankful for them.  The quote says:  You pray in your distress and in your need:  would that you might pray also in the fullness of your joy.

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I have found alanon's encouragement, to be aware of gratitude and blessings, are helping me along my healing journey.  Some days can be very dark, as when a loved one was going through cancer treatment.  Gratitude can lift me up out of the despair.  And some time ago, as I established a habit of praying each morning, I start out saying "thank you" for a number of things.  When I could not feel grateful and see assets, life was almost unbearable.  At least now, although there are still dark days, I have some balance aligning me with the good in life.