Does binging cheesy Christmas movies feel more like fun or a much needed escape from life? Is it OK for it be a bit of both? The Christmas cheer of the season brings plenty of laughter and joy but it also can feel complicated holding space for the pains of life. So what's the right posture? Comedian and Actress Anjelah Johnson-Reyes knows exactly the feeling of holding space for laughter and tears. With the heights of her success this yea from releasing her first book, two comedy specials and a world tour - yet grieving the loss of her dear tia Mary. Life moves fast and Anjelah and Elyse discuss how to enjoy the magic of Christmas and engage the joy of the holiday in an authentic, present way (as opposed to faking or forcing it). There is beauty even in the pain we experience as Anjelah shares her advice for processing grief healthily, as you can't process what you don't recognize. From favorite Christmas memories to the Hallmark movie debate let this episode fill you both with hope for the holiday as well as space for your struggles - because we get to do both.

From award-winning producer and actress Roma Downey's LightWorkers Media, welcome to the On a Lighter Note Podcast hosted by writer & speaker Elyse Murphy. Here we have conversations with people from all walks of life to speak into the ways we are coping with the ups, the downs and the detours of life to help us thrive even in challenging times. Even when it seems we're surrounded by darkness, there's always a little bit of light to be found - so let's go find it together! New episode airs every Tuesday.