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Reaching Out: A Holiday Ritual That Warms the Soul
This podcast episode delves into the importance of reaching out to loved ones, particularly during the holiday season. James Brown reflects on how this time of year can evoke feelings of melancholy and self-reflection, prompting him to connect with those he cares about. He shares his personal ritual of cold calling and texting friends and family, emphasizing that it’s not about catching up on everything but rather a simple gesture of acknowledgment. The act of reaching out, even when it feels awkward, creates ripples of connection that can lessen the weight of loneliness. This episode encourages listeners to consider the impact of such gestures, not just during the holidays but throughout the year, as a way to foster meaningful relationships and community.
In the reflective monologue delivered by James Brown, the complexities of the holiday season are explored through a lens of personal experience and vulnerability. As the season approaches, Brown articulates a familiar sensation: a wave of melancholy that often accompanies the cold, dark nights. He delves into the emotional intricacies of this time of year, revealing how it serves as a mirror, reflecting back our flaws and imperfections. It is within this context of introspection that Brown shares his ritual of reaching out to those he cares about—an act that transforms his feelings of loneliness into connection.
This ritual, characterized by simple messages and unexpected phone calls, underscores the power of intention in human relationships. Brown emphasizes that the purpose of these outreach efforts is not to catch up on the minutiae of life but rather to convey a message of presence and care. He recalls the varied responses he receives, from laughter to silence, and how each interaction, regardless of its outcome, reinforces the notion that connection does not need to be flawless to hold value. Through this practice, Brown finds solace, discovering that even the smallest gestures can create ripples of impact, much like a pebble dropped into water. This metaphor resonates deeply, illustrating how acts of kindness can spread far beyond their initial intent.
As he contemplates the broader implications of such outreach, Brown poses a question to his audience: what if more people engaged in this practice throughout the year? Would it foster a sense of community and diminish feelings of isolation? He challenges listeners to reflect on their own habits of communication and the potential benefits of embracing vulnerability. Concluding with a heartfelt message for the holiday season, he wishes everyone a Merry Christmas from his family to theirs, reminding us all to prioritize our connections and well-being, especially during times that can feel overwhelmingly isolating.
Takeaways:
- The holiday season often brings a wave of melancholy that many can relate to.
- Reaching out to loved ones can create meaningful connections, even when imperfect.
- A simple message can convey presence and thoughtfulness, making someone feel valued.
- The act of reaching out reminds us that connection doesn't have to be perfect.
- Engaging with others through texts or calls can help combat feelings of loneliness.
- Consider making a habit of reaching out beyond just the holiday season for connection.
Links referenced in this episode:
Transcript
A ritual of Reaching out This is commentary from James Brown.
James Brown:The holidays.
James Brown:They sneak up on you, don't they?
James Brown:For me, this time of year always brings a wave of melancholy.
James Brown:It's not just the cold or the long nights, even though I hate them both.
James Brown:It's the mirror that it forces me to look into, the kind that shows every flaw, every imperfection.
James Brown:I know it doesn't have to be this way, but hey, here we are.
James Brown:Here I am.
James Brown:A few years back, I started a ritual.
James Brown:It's not fancy, but it's meaningful.
James Brown:I cold call and text people I haven't spoken to in ages.
James Brown:Not everyone, just those I love.
James Brown:Or at least like enough to share a few moments with.
James Brown:Sometimes it's even a random dm.
James Brown:It's not about catching up on everything.
James Brown:It's about a simple hey, I'm here.
James Brown:You came to mind.
James Brown:Thinking of you, Sometimes the responses surprise me.
James Brown:A laugh, a heartfelt thanks.
James Brown:Even silence feels less heavy when you're the one reaching out.
James Brown:Like a pebble tossed into a still lake, ripples spreading even when you don't see where they end.
James Brown:It reminds me that connection doesn't have to be perfect to matter.
James Brown:In fact, maybe the imperfections are the point.
James Brown:I wonder what would happen if more of us did this.
James Brown:Not just during the holidays, but throughout the year.
James Brown:Maybe it would make the world feel a little less lonely.
James Brown:Or would it be just another text in an inbox that's already too full?
James Brown:What do you think?
James Brown:Is it worth reaching out, even when it's awkward?
James Brown:Let me know in the comments.
James Brown:And while you're at it, check out more at jamesbrowntv.substack.com and on this Christmas Day, from my family to yours, Merry Christmas.
James Brown:On that note, I'm James Brown and as always, be well.
James Brown:Especially today.
