Grief, Joy, & Traditions: Finding Harmony in the Holidays

In Episode 21 of 3 with Bri, Bri reflects on how grief never truly ends—it ebbs, flows, and sometimes arrives unexpectedly, especially during the holidays. Christmas, with its deep roots in tradition, can bring both warmth and heartbreak as memories of loved ones and long-held rituals resurface.Bri shares vivid memories of her childhood Christmas Eve traditions—multi-generational gatherings, Swedish foods, caroling in four-part harmony, and her grandfather’s steady voice reading the Christmas story. She explores what it means to grieve not only people, but the traditions that disappeared with them.As a married, working mom of three, Bri turns toward the present—creating meaning with her own family while holding space for both joy and sadness. Drawing on the metaphor of music and harmony (and a nod to Inside Out), she reminds listeners that holidays aren’t meant to be felt in a single emotion. Grief and joy can coexist, creating a richer, more honest season.This episode is an invitation to acknowledge the full scale of feelings the holidays bring—and to trust that even on the darkest nights, beautiful music can still be made.Happy Holidays! This podcast will resume in 2026!