"This is the third post in my Hallmark and Family Dynamics series, in which I explore what these films reveal about family relationships. The first looked at parental expectations as well as self-sabotage in relationships, and the second addressed our continued seeking of parental approval. This week's feature, Christmas Above the Clouds, offers a compelling look at how heartbreak can send us into despair-and how acknowledging our mistakes can create a path toward healing and even rekindled love."
"In the film, Ella Neezer (Erin Krakow) tries to literally "fly away" from Christmas by scheduling a long flight to Australia so that Christmas will essentially be over by the time she lands. The story forces her to confront what she's left behind, however: a former partner, unmet emotional debts, and the cost of success alone. This mirrors what often occurs after relational rupture:"
"Loss of shared vision. When a relationship ends, the shared future we were working toward dissolves. The film captures this by showing the protagonist haunted by the Christmas ghosts of her past and her present choices. Identity drift. Many people in relationships build part of their identity around "us" and "we," so when "we" ends, there's disorientation. The film's ghosts element provides a way for Ella to work through the disorientation. Emotional rumination and stagnation."
Christmas Above the Clouds portrays a protagonist who attempts to escape a painful breakup by scheduling a long flight to Australia, only to be forced to confront a former partner, unmet emotional debts, and the cost of success alone. Breakups often produce loss of shared vision, identity drift, and emotional rumination that lead to stagnation. Escape strategies can act as illusions that substitute for needed relational repair. Reflecting on one’s contribution and acknowledging mistakes can open pathways to healing, rekindling connection, or new personal growth. Relational endings can become opportunities for development rather than only loss.
Read at Psychology Today
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