Lawrence Joss discusses the emotional complexities surrounding the holidays, particularly for those experiencing parental alienation and estrangement. He emphasizes the importance of acknowledging feelings of grief, loneliness, and frustration while also highlighting coping strategies such as having a plan, seeking community support, and reframing negative thoughts. Joss encourages listeners to create new traditions and find ways to connect with loved ones, even in their absence, while practicing self-care and compassion during this challenging time.

Key Takeaways

• The holidays can amplify feelings of joy and pain.
• It's important to acknowledge the struggles of parental alienation.
• Having a plan for the holidays can help mitigate emotional distress.
• Resentment can be harmful; finding ways to address it is crucial.
• Creating new traditions can help in coping with loss.
• Community support is vital during the holidays.
• Self-care practices are essential for emotional well-being.
• Triggers are inevitable; being prepared can help manage them.
• Reframing negative thoughts can shift your perspective.
• It's important to remember that the holiday season is temporary.

Chapters

0:00 - Welcome And Holiday Theme
1:44 - Memories and Mixed Gratitude
2:44 - How Holidays Amplify Joy and Pain
4:35 - Stages of Alienation and Planning Ahead
7:05 - Service and Hope as an Antiseptic
8:36 - Naming Invisible Loss and Emotions
10:18 - Forgiveness Work and Releasing Resentments
12:05 - Anticipating Triggers and Setting Boundaries
15:10 - Communicating Needs and Seeking Consent
18:08 - Self-Care Planning and Safe People
20:10 - Creating New Rituals and Continuing to Live
22:28 - Reframing Painful Holiday Stories
24:20 - Shame, Self-Forgiveness, and Repair
26:04 - Commemorating Loved Ones From Afar
28:12 - Closing Wishes and Community Reflection

If you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast:

Email - familydisappeared@gmail.com
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss
(All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)

Please donate to support PAA programs:
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This podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:
Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-host
Glaze Gonzales- Podcast Manager

Connect with Lawrence Joss:
Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/
Email- familydisappeared@gmail.com