"So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God."
~ 1 Corinthians 10:31
Is it really possible to stay sane around the holidays?
What if I have real baggage from past holidays & celebrations?
How do I hold onto my values when the routine is thrown out the window?
In episode 87 of This Whole Life, Pat and Kenna dive into the highs, hards, and heartfelt moments that come with holidays and celebrations. Together, they explore personal and family traditions, sharing how their values influence everything from birthdays and wedding anniversaries to Easter and Christmas. The discussion goes far beyond surface-level festivities, unpacking how expectations, family dynamics, and even past baggage shape our experience of these moments. You'll hear practical wisdom about communicating needs, honoring boundaries, and keeping faith at the center of every celebration—even in the midst of chaos. Whether it’s prioritizing family, embracing compromise, or creating meaningful new traditions, this episode is full of relatable stories, smiles, and actionable strategies for navigating the busiest—and sometimes hardest—times of the year with both sanity and sanctity.
Chapters:
0:00: Intro & Blind Top 10
15:57: Highs & Hards
22:39: Principles of sane celebrations & holidays
35:56: Concrete approaches to sane celebrations (The Millea Way)
50:48: Challenge By Choice
Reflection Questions:
- What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
- What are some of your favorite holiday traditions? Which holidays are most difficult for you?
- When have you compromised with others about a holiday or celebration? What was that experience like for you?
- When have you held onto your most central values during a celebration? When have you sacrificed a higher value for the sake of a lower value?
- How can you identify and communicate your hopes and fears of an upcoming holiday with a loved one? What do you hope they understand about you?
Send us a text. We can't respond directly, but we're excited to hear what's on your mind!
Click here to register for the DBT group from Jan. 20 - March 24, 2026 (MN & WI residents only)
Thank you for listening, and a very special thank you to our community of supporters!
Visit us online at thiswholelifepodcast.com, and send us an email with your thoughts, questions, or ideas.
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Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration
Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.
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