When the Holidays Feel Tender: Connecting With A Child Who's Chosen A Different Path {Eps. 115}

The holidays can feel especially heavy when your child is walking a path that doesn't reflect the way you raised them — spiritually, morally, or emotionally. If you've ever felt that quiet ache, this episode is meant to bring comfort, clarity, and hope.

In today's conversation, we explore gentle, grace-filled ways to reconnect with your child during the holiday season without pressure, panic, or preaching. You'll hear why your presence matters more than "getting the words right," how to ask open, life-giving questions, and why small moments of warmth can rebuild trust over time.

This is an episode for Christian parents who love deeply, hurt quietly, and want to keep the door open — even when the relationship feels complicated.

What We Cover in This Episode: ❤️ Naming the Heartache

Why the holidays magnify the distance, the grief, and the unspoken worries many parents carry.

🧠 Understanding Your Child's Internal World

They may be navigating more fear, shame, or uncertainty than you think — even if they don't show it.

🌿 Five Gentle Ways to Reconnect This Season

1. Leading with presence over correction

2. Asking questions without hidden agendas

3. Sharing warm memories instead of disappointment

4. Releasing the pressure for holiday moments to "go somewhere"

5. Praying quietly, loving loudly

Simple interactions become the first seeds of reconnection.

A Gentle Reminder:

You're not failing.
You're navigating something complicated with love and courage.
And God still moves in the places you can't reach.

For Parents Who Need This Today:

Save this episode for the tender moments… and feel free to share it with someone who is walking the same road.

Do you want to know more about the January 2026 FAST or make sure you do't miss out on any new opportunities? Subscribe here to receive emails to get the latest news.

Related episodes of The Bridge Between Us to help with the holidays:

https://melindapatrick.org/2024/12/23/gretchen-stockman-help-for-the-parent-who-has-been-estranged-from-their-child-eps-78/

https://melindapatrick.org/2023/12/17/when-christmas-is-difficult-dont-let-the-enemy-rob-you-of-the-real-meaning-of-the-season-eps-47/

https://melindapatrick.org/2023/11/29/moving-from-fear-to-faith-and-taking-steps-to-have-a-trauma-less-christmas-with-jenn-hand-eps-44/

https://melindapatrick.org/2023/11/15/ways-to-thrive-this-holiday-season-when-skipping-isnt-an-option-eps-42/