Faith Matters In the Bleak Midwinter, by Peter Conti-Brown
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Dec 21, 2025 Peter Conti-Brown, a writer and narrator known for heartfelt essays, shares a poignant personal tale about a Christmas defined by both struggle and grace. He reflects on the challenges of his partner's postpartum depression and the strain it placed on their family amid political tension over Proposition 8. With warmth, he describes the overwhelming support from their church community and friends, illustrating how love and connection can emerge even in the darkest times. It's a story of renewal, gratitude, and the profound impact of togetherness.
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Christmas When Everything Fell Apart
- Peter Conti-Brown recounts a Christmas in 2008 when his newborn arrival coincided with severe family crisis and campus tensions.
- He describes the birth followed quickly by Nikki's debilitating postpartum depression and his struggle with finals and isolation.
Political Rift Deepened The Pain
- He situates the crisis amid the 2008 California ballot fight over gay marriage that fractured his Stanford community and congregation.
- The conflict made church cease to be a refuge and strained friendships and peer relationships.
Accept Organized Community Support
- Accept offers of organized community support when you cannot manage alone.
- Let trusted institutions coordinate care so you can focus on immediate responsibilities like coursework or recovery.