Why 'Hey, I'm Here' Might Be the Best Holiday Gift
This podcast episode centers around the theme of reaching out to loved ones during the holiday season, highlighting the importance of connection even in imperfect forms. James Brown reflects on the melancholy that often accompanies this time of year, as the cold and darkness prompt introspection. He shares his personal ritual of cold calling and texting people he hasn't spoken to in a long time, emphasizing that these gestures are about simply letting others know they are on his mind. Through this practice, he finds that even brief interactions can alleviate feelings of loneliness and create meaningful ripples of connection. Brown encourages listeners to consider the impact of reaching out to others, not only during the holidays but throughout the entire year.
The holiday season often stirs a complex mix of emotions, and for James Brown, this time of year is particularly poignant. He candidly shares his struggle with feelings of melancholy, intensified by the cold weather and the long nights that characterize winter. Rather than retreating into solitude, James has cultivated a meaningful ritual that helps him navigate these emotions: he reaches out to friends and family he hasn’t connected with in a while. This practice serves as an antidote to loneliness, allowing him to express love and connection in a simple yet impactful way.
James emphasizes the importance of these small gestures, explaining that they don’t need to be grand or elaborate. A quick message or call can suffice, with the essence of the connection lying in the thoughtfulness behind it. He reflects on the ripple effect of reaching out—how a simple “I’m thinking of you” can not only uplift the recipient but also alleviate the heaviness that often accompanies the holiday season. Through anecdotes of surprise responses and heartfelt exchanges, James illustrates that the act of reaching out fosters a sense of community and belonging. His insights resonate deeply, reminding us that even in moments of silence, the intent to connect matters profoundly.
As he contemplates the potential impact of this ritual, James challenges listeners to consider the implications of reaching out more frequently, not just during the festive season but throughout the year. He wonders if such actions could contribute to a world that feels less lonely and more connected. By encouraging dialogue about the value of human connection, James reinforces a vital message: embracing vulnerability in our relationships can lead to meaningful bonds. The episode concludes with warm wishes for the holidays, encouraging everyone to prioritize these connections as they navigate their lives.
Takeaways:
- James Brown shares how the holiday season often brings feelings of melancholy and reflection.
- He discusses the importance of reaching out to loved ones, even if it's just a simple message.
- The act of connecting, no matter how imperfect, can create meaningful ripples in our lives.
- James reflects on how a small gesture like a text can combat feelings of loneliness.
- He encourages listeners to consider the value of outreach beyond just the holiday season.
- The episode poses a thought-provoking question about whether connection is worth pursuing despite potential awkwardness.
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.
