Show Summary

Christmas blues are nothing new. And in today’s therapeutic and authentic age, we’re more willing to admit to and discuss how the holidays are something anything but merry and bright. For some of us, it’s grief. For others, it’s troubles and trials. But for all us, Christmas is when our longings are piqued and our hearts yearn for something more. Movies tell us Christmas is the perfect time to find our soul mate. Advertisements tell us Christmas is the perfect time to get the latest and greatest goods. Society tells us Christmas is the perfect time to be present to everyone in every circle we inhabit. But is this really what Christmas is all about?

In this episode of Persuasion, Erin Straza and Hannah Anderson kick off a holiday mini series called Lessons & Carols. This first conversation covers the lessons we’ve learned about the way Christmas can meet the soul’s longing for connection and love. From Hallmark Christmas specials to receiving the perfect gift from that perfect someone, we’ve all taken in ideals that lead our hearts to unavoidable disappointment. What we see in romance stories and jewelry commercials tells us we’re missing out. Is it possible we have unreasonable expectations on relationships that exacerbate our Christmas blues? How can we find joy in the holidays when our relationships are draining us?

Listen in for dialogue on questions like these, then continue the conversation on Twitter @PersuasionCAPC or in the CAPC members-only community on Facebook.

Your Hosts

Erin Straza: Web / Twitter
Hannah Anderson: Web / Twitter

Episode 153 Resources & Links

Why We Get Depressed At The Holidays, And How To Deal, Huffington Post

“How the Grinch Graced Christmas,” Alan Noble, Christ and Pop Culture

“Relieving the Ache of Christmas: Inviting the Heartsick In,” D. L. Mayfield, Christ and Pop Culture

Did you enjoy this episode of Persuasion? Give these a listen!

Persuasion 118 | Going Solo during the Holidays, with Gina Dalfonzo

Persuasion 121 | When Your Christmas Joy Crumbles

Persuasion | The Grief That Stole Christmas, with Nancy Guthrie

Theme music by Maiden Name. Produced by Jonathan Clauson.

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