Original subtitles

Clap your hands. Give him praise.

The Savior's born today!

♪ Hey ♪

♪ Hey, hey ♪

♪ In Bethlehem that holy night ♪

This isn't just any Sunday.

It's Christmas time,

my absolute favorite season.

♪ A shining star ♪

♪ A guiding light ♪

That's my dad,

always smiling, always steady.

♪ He came to bring us ♪

My mom, Cassidy,

brilliant and in charge.

She built our family name.

Aunt Celeste,

bold, stylish, and chasing big dreams.

♪ And now we're made whole ♪

♪ We got joy, joy, joy ♪

♪ Can't you feel it tonight ♪

♪ Give God the glory ♪

♪ Let your praise take flight ♪

Lord, I know you said come as you are,

but what in the world?

Oh, Lord, forgive me.

Aunt Bev, sharp, loving, funny, unforgettable.

♪ Hallelujah ♪

♪ Praise His name ♪

♪ Born to save the whole human race ♪

♪ Hallelujah ♪

♪ Praise His name ♪

♪ Now the angels sing above all the years ♪

♪ Singing love is in His light ♪

♪ Joy in the manger ♪

♪ Joy in our soul ♪

♪ Jesus came to save us ♪

♪ And now we're made whole ♪

♪ We got joy, joy, joy, joy ♪

♪ Can't you feel it tonight ♪

♪ Give God the glory ♪

♪ Let your praise take flight ♪

That's Mr. Eugene and his son Eli.

They're new here, but they don't miss a Sunday.

♪ Come on ♪

♪ Joy in the manger ♪

♪ Joy in our soul ♪

♪ Jesus came to save us ♪

♪ And now we're made whole ♪

♪ We got joy, joy, joy, joy ♪

♪ Can't you feel it tonight ♪

♪ Give God the glory ♪

♪ Let your praise take flight ♪

♪ Give God the glory ♪

♪ Let your praise take flight ♪

♪ Give God the glory ♪

♪ Let your praise take flight ♪

Praise him.

- Praise be. - Glory.

Hallelujah!

That's my grandpa, Bishop Cleveland Malone.

- Good morning, everybody. - He's the heart

of our family.

- Praise the Lord, everybody. - And when he speaks,

you listen.

Are you feeling the joy?

Are you feeling the love?

Yes!

Amen.

Give this awesome choir another round of applause.

Amen.

I want to give a special thank you to my son CJ.

- A faithful servant- - That's Uncle CJ,

- a big heart. - Full of love

and the Holy Spirit.

And he believes success means nothing.

Amen.

Unless you're helping others.

All right, now church,

as we prepare to close,

I want you to hold on to the joy

you're feeling right now.

Don't let the hustle and bustle of Christmas

steal that from you.

And remember, Christ owes us nothing,

yet He gives us everything.

Oh, yeah!

Amen?

Glory!

So church, who's the reason for the season?

Jesus!

Hallelujah!

Amen.

And tell Mr. Steve we're praying for him.

CJ, come on.

Dad, come on, y'all, let's take this picture.

And that's me, Aylani.

We're the Malones,

not perfect, but rooted in love,

laughter, and a whole lot of faith.

This Christmas, that faith is going be tested.

Decorating grandma and grandpa's tree

is one of our favorite traditions.

We all have a big slumber party

a few days before we leave

for our annual Christmas vacation,

and putting up the tree, that always means cookies,

laughs, and the same old stories.

Remember that time Uncle Curtis spiked Dad's drink.

That'll forever be the funniest story of my life.

And the most humiliating of mine.

Man, I swear these boxes multiply every year.

Is that lady gonna have the vacation house

set up again this year?

Yep, ready for us to just to walk right in.

Good, honey, 'cause pulling out

all this Christmas stuff is a full-time job.

Speaking of work, I still need some help

down at the center.

Any volunteers? Any takers?

Ooh, me.

You always volunteering somewhere.

I got you though.

Appreciate you sis.

Uh, Dad?

Hm?

Ah, of course.

You know Daddy lives for this.

Someone could knock on the door asking for prayer, pie,

and a ride across town, and he'd find a way to do it all.

And you should take notes.

All y'all.

All y'all just working too much.

It's Christmas, for heaven's sakes.

Auntie, they just securing the bag.

Securing the bag, my.

- Aunt Bev. - Huh?

Behave.

I, I, I, I was just gonna say my aspirin,

looking for my aspirins.

Where they at?

All this mess going on.

And CJ,

baby, when are you gonna find you a woman?

What you think she gonna do,

show up at the door with a bow on top of her head?

Look, Auntie, at this point,

if God decides to deliver her with a bow,

I ain't gonna complain about it, you feel me?

Well, I hope you ain't too busy

to sign for the delivery, all right?

Mm-hmm.

I really wish John could be here this year.

Me too, baby.

Ah, I hate that deployed mess.

I miss his laughter and that, that loud energy of his.

Let's make him a video.

Ooh, that's a great idea, baby.

So, choir finally nailed

that last song for the Christmas play.

What?

First stage play as play director?

- Mm-hmm. - Congrats sis.

- I'm proud of you, for real. - Thank's major.

It's amazing, for real.

I can't make it.

I'm headlining my sorority's empowerment brunch.

But, um, you understand, right?

Of course. Sisters first.

If that's your narrative,

I'm not gonna try to rewrite it.

Truth doesn't need any editing.

And you, niece,

directing gospel plays one minute

and then you're taking these little ratchet roles the next.

TT, I want to watch your movie.

No!

No, sweetheart.

Wait, you watched my movie?

Well, I tried.

But girl, the way they had you

strutting across there half dressed,

and then you was cussing like you had lost your mind.

Mm-mm, had to turn it off.

Turned it off.

Celeste, why those kind of roles?

Because, Daddy, if I'm not somebody's baby mama

or loud best friend, then I'm basically invisible.

You know Mama wouldn't approve.

You don't get to use Mama to judge me.

All right, y'all, let's calm down a bit.

I just wish she were here.

She could always get through you all

in ways that I never could.

Well, she's not.

And if she was...

You know what?

Forget it.

Cass.

Grandma was the heart of this family.

This is our first Christmas without her,

and none of us really knows how to handle it.

Good morning.

Hey, Mr. Sanchez.

Ms. Walker, I really need your rent payment today.

Look, I understand,

but please just give us a little more time.

Things have been really tight,

but I promise we're doing everything we can.

I hear you, but you said the same thing last week,

and I can't keep holding off.

Mr. Sanchez, please,

I'm asking just a little more time.

If you could just find it in the kindness of your heart.

If I don't get a payment today, please understand,

I'll have to start the eviction process.

Mr. Sanchez, come on.

Mr. Sanchez!

You ready, Ma?

I'm hungry.

Yeah, baby.

Look, breakfast will be over

by the time we get there, but don't you worry,

I'll make sure you get something.

Perks of your momma being the cafeteria lady.

- Come on. - Okay.

You got your homework, right?

Yes.

Dang, that call was longer than December, wasn't it?

Sorry, sorority brunch planning.

Jason's ready.

Okay.

Jason, happy holidays, man.

Same to you.

Hard to believe it's been a year.

Time flies when you're building something great.

So how's things coming along with the gym?

The gym is thriving.

We started with six kids,

now we're running two sessions a day

and schools are calling.

What y'all gave me, the funding, the branding,

it changed everything.

Well, we don't put our name on anything

unless it is going to win, so you're welcome.

And you've stewarded it well.

That's why you're handing off

the One Year to Elevate Award.

Honored. Just tell me what to do.

Websites, socials, promo video.

Any last tweaks before you hand it off

to this year's recipient?

We're solid.

Already landed new partnerships.

Whoever gets this next is in for a blessing.

Sounds great, Jason.

We'll circle back with the details.

Anytime. See y'all soon.

Oh, happy holidays.

- Happy holidays. - Happy holidays.

That one we did right.

You shouldn't be surprised.

And now we are officially on Christmas break.

Long day?

- Yeah. - Where's Elijah?

He's in the room.

How about steak tonight?

My day wasn't good, Eugene.

Mr. Sanchez came by,

said if we didn't pay, eviction starts.

I called and he's giving us until Friday.

Thank you, Jesus.

Thank you Jesus?

Jesus ain't fixing this, Eugene.

We can't keep living like this.

I'm trying, Dana.

Every day, I'm out there.

Yeah, well, trying isn't enough.

We are literally drowning,

and Elijah needs stability,

not us scraping by week to week.

You think I don't know that?

You think I'm not out there every day

busting my butt, taking whatever side jobs I can find?

Practically begging companies to give me a shot.

All they see is a criminal.

Eugene.

Eugene, baby.

Look, you know how to make money, good money.

You've done it before.

Look, just until things get better.

You actually really saying that to me,

after everything?

Look, I'm saying we survive.

We need more than prayers

and my little paycheck right now.

So that's what we down to now.

You have me go back to the streets.

Eugene, look, I.

And risk everything we got left.

I don't want this.

I don't want this, Eugene, I don't.

But we can't keep hoping that things will just change.

We got to do something.

Look, we don't have a choice, Eugene.

Oh, look here.

This was that trip we took to Florida.

You remember Aylani?

You just couldn't stay out the sand.

I do remember that, but I was like three.

And I also remember building

a huge sandcastle with grandma.

- Nice. - Yeah.

Ooh, look at that outfit.

I've always been a whole vibe.

Yes, you have.

Your mama could take a thrift store outfit like this

and make it look like a million bucks.

Yeah.

I remember her piecing together stuff for us

for church like it was the Met Gala.

She certainly had a gift of stretching what little we had.

You'd never know we were struggling.

She might have kept it from the world,

but we felt it.

She had a heart big enough

to always make more for others,

even if it meant less for us.

But still, y'all managed to give us

everything that we needed.

I'll forever be grateful for that.

That's easy for you to say

because you were born towards the end of the struggle.

But hey, look at us now,

no more scraping by,

and that low life living is a thing of the past now.

I'm definitely grateful.

But what makes this house a home

is not the square footage.

I'll never forget it, and I hope you don't either.

Look at this smile.

I mean, come on now.

Wow, I can't believe how big she got.

Wait, I smell cookies.

Aunt Bev's making cookies.

Ooh, that's our cue.

Come on, y'all.

All right. All right.

Christmas is near,

filling the air with cinnamon and peppermint.

Every year, our church comes together

to make sure no one goes without.

Grandma used to lead the Christmas food drive

with Uncle CJ, but now he's the one in charge.

Grandpa's still finding his way without her,

but Aunt Bev has stepped in

like family does in hard times.

Y'all kids must stop that running in this church.

I don't know where they think they at.

Hey, Bishop.

Hey, Eugene.

Uh, you got a quick second?

Yeah, let's finish up here

and meet me in my office afterwards.

- Good? - Sounds good. Yeah.

- All right. - See you then.

Caterer confirmed.

Yep, all set.

You know you don't have to micromanage every detail, right?

Yeah.

Come on, Cass, be cheerful.

I'm fine.

Do need to talk about King though.

Mm-hmm, not right now.

We can't keep brushing this off.

The way he's been acting is getting harder to ignore.

Well, that's college, Cass.

He's navigating life. It's not a crime.

It's not just life, Oliver.

It's marijuana.

It's irresponsibility.

It reflects poorly.

I built a name that carries weight and credibility,

and beyond that, we are Christians.

Our daughter watches everything that we do

and what we allow.

Well, he's my son,

and whether or not he's at his best or not,

he's still family.

Acting like you don't even want him there.

Maybe it'd be better if he wasn't.

Look, I'm not justifying what he's doing,

but he's coming with us,

whether you like it or not.

But it would be better if we just.

End.

End of discussion.

And for the record, we're not Christians

because we say we are.

We're Christians because we act like it.

I'm sorry about that.

When the Lord speaks,

I have to write it down right then and there.

No problem at all, Bishop.

I just appreciate you making time

for me on such short notice.

Not at all.

What's on your mind?

I feel like I'm losing hope.

I mean, I feel like every time

I think I'm making progress, it all slips away.

Well, you know God sees your effort, Eugene,

and so do I.

I'm trying, Bishop.

But we're barely getting by.

Dana, my wife, oh, she's scared.

She even told me to go back to the streets.

I mean, I get it because that's all she's known for me.

But I want to do right,

for myself, for Dana, for my son.

You know, the road to redemption isn't easy.

I'm sure you know that.

But do you believe that God has a purpose in all this,

that he's there and will see you through?

I want to believe that.

The question is, do you believe?

Yes.

See, that's key, believing.

What you did in your past or, none of that matters.

It's where you're going that counts.

These trials that you're dealing with,

they're merely shaping you.

Sometimes it's hard to see it.

Oh, I know.

But you're never alone in those moments.

Our God is always with you.

I understand that.

You know, each year,

my family and I we take a trip.

It's simply a time to reconnect,

enjoy the season and enjoy one another.

I would love to have you, your wife

and your son come join us, if you're open for it.

I'm not sure about that, Bishop.

I mean, I couldn't possibly intrude on your family time.

Look, it's not an intrusion.

It's an invitation.

Sometimes a change of scenery is what we need to reset.

Thank you, Bishop.

I'll mention that to Dana.

But you don't know my wife.

Hey, if I can help convince her, just have her call.

But I, I got to warn you also,

my family can be kind of sketchy too, so.

Together though, we should have a good time.

Yes, sir. Thank you so much.

Let's talk.

♪ Let him cook ♪

♪ Let him stir it up ♪

♪ Let him season all your days ♪

♪ Let him flame ♪

♪ Let him light the path ♪

♪ Let him lead you through the maze ♪

♪ Trust the process ♪

♪ Don't rush the sauce ♪

♪ Let him timing be your guide ♪

♪ Let him cook ♪

♪ Let him do his thing ♪

♪ In his hands, you can confide ♪

♪ I'm out here chasing goals ♪

♪ Chasing goals ♪

♪ But he's the one that's making them ♪

Smells good.

It tastes better than good.

Elijah, did you start eating before saying grace?

Man, I forgot.

Say your grace, son.

Dear God, I'm sorry I forgot.

Thank you for this food and my dad for making it.

Jesus' name. Amen.

- Amen. - Amen.

Dad, guess what we learned in children's church?

Oh, what's that?

That we should always believe in God, no matter what.

That's right.

So I'm gonna believe God for a Christmas miracle.

And what miracle is that, son?

So that things get better for us,

so that Mom doesn't always have to worry about money.

Ah, don't worry your little head about that, baby.

And that's a big thing to believe for.

But God can do big things.

Hey, you're absolutely right.

And you know what?

God loves when we trust him,

especially when times get hard.

That was good, Dad.

When I grow up, I want to cook just like you.

Oh, you do?

- Yeah. - How about this?

We'll cook together more, anytime you want.

- Really? - Yeah.

Okay.

Can I go play my game now?

Mm.

Go ahead.

Baby, can we talk?

- Eugene, I don't- - Please.

Look, I know this is hard,

but we're gonna get through it.

We can't even afford to pay rent,

and with Christmas break coming the next couple of weeks,

that means no paycheck coming in.

I know but.

What's this?

Eugene, this is a lot of money.

Enough to hold us over.

I knew you still had it in you.

Where do you think that money came from?

Dana, no.

Listen to me, I am never going back to that life.

You understand? Never.

Okay, look, I just thought.

Don't.

Okay.

I spoke to Bishop Malone today.

He gave us the money.

And what happens when this is all gone?

God will provide.

How? Tell me how.

I don't have all the answers, Dana.

Right.

Bishop invited us to their family Christmas getaway.

What?

I don't even know those people.

Elijah needs this.

He needs to feel something different,

something normal.

I mean, he's believing God for a miracle this Christmas.

Let's face it, we can't give him that right now.

But they're offering all expenses paid,

a real Christmas, a break from survival mode.

I don't know, Eugene.

Then don't do it for you,

do it for Elijah.

Our annual family vacation is finally here.

This year feels a little different.

It's our first time here without grandma.

I'm not really sure how it's going to feel,

but I know she'd be happy we're still coming together.

Oh, it's beautiful.

Did it again.

Yeah.

Just like Sandra would have.

Yep, trees on the porch and everything.

You good?

Yeah.

I got you.

We gonna have a good time.

You ready?

Okay, let's do it.

You know I can see you, right?

Still undefeated.

You are lucky I love you.

I mean, I'm so blessed.

Oh, honey.

I cannot believe this place is ours.

Yeah.

We were ready to let it go.

I know I was ready to just walk away from it.

And then that Cassidy showed up.

- Oh my God. - And a whole business plan.

Yes, yes.

Next thing you know, it's a short-term rental

with a waiting list.

And then December, the calendar is blocked,

and it's all ours.

Ours.

Living our best life.

- Hey! - Oh, oh.

Yeah, I know.

Show me what you got.

Okay!

Yeah, there you go.

Oh, okay, Bishop.

Trying to be all hip.

Hey.

You know I wasn't always Bishop, you know?

Oh, trust me, I know.

Yeah.

Honey, how about next Christmas

we invite a family in need to celebrate with us?

Wait a minute,

you want to invite outsiders

to come spend Christmas

with our unpredictable, crazy family.

Exactly. That's why we should.

Oh!

Whoa, whoa, baby, babe.

You all right?

Oh.

Hold on. Hold on.

I just,

just feel a little lightheaded.

Okay, okay.

Hey, when's your next appointment?

Mm-mm. No.

Baby.

It's Christmas.

You know my rule.

Joy is our only focus.

Okay, I get that. I get it.

Go ahead, go ahead,

at least sit down.

There you go.

All right, come on, I got you.

I got you. Take your time.

There you go. There you go.

Better?

Mm-hmm.

I love you.

I love you too.

Mm-mm.

You all right, Cleve?

Aunt Bev.

Just miss her so much.

She's still here with us.

Curtis too.

Every memory, every laugh,

we carry them with us.

It's okay.

Hey, what you got in here,

your entire clothes or something?

I got to be prepared

in case my Prince Charming shows up.

Hey.

We thought you were right behind us.

We were, but Celeste had to stop for a latte.

No regrets.

You and your lattes.

- Hey, auntie. - Hey.

What's wrong with her?

Bathroom emergency, and same here.

Okay.

You know they're not fans of public restrooms.

Of course not,

that's where regular people go.

- How you doing? - I'm fine. Are you?

- Looking dapper. - Good. Yeah, you know.

Yeah, look at you. All right.

How's it going, son-in-law?

Good. Good to see you.

You too.

Okay.

All right, King.

Remember, do not, do not cuss Cassidy out.

That's good.

Hi, what's up, family?

Well, look who it is.

Hey, son.

What's up, Dad?

Man, you working hard or hardly working?

You know, just a little bit of both, Grandpa.

Oh, man.

Hey, you trying to get the whole house high?

Nephew, that's how.

My bad, Auntie.

Yeah, baby, look at you all handsome and grown up.

Thank you.

I have to get with your little later

to get a little bit of that za.

- Aunt Bev. - Huh?

Aunt Bev don't even know nothing about it.

I'm just joking.

It ain't even that strong.

Sure.

King.

She's so extra.

Okay, all right where everybody else at?

Where the family at?

- It's not a party. - Okay, okay.

Where everybody at?

Uh, in the basement.

With the, with the window and the fan.

He need both.

Are you sure we're staying here?

I thought you said we were staying at a hotel.

Are we there yet?

This doesn't look like a hotel.

♪ We don't just ♪

♪ We don't just hear it ♪

♪ We walk it out everyday ♪

♪ Hey, hey ♪

♪ His love in action ♪

♪ In every word we say ♪

♪ Hey, hey ♪

♪ Ain't just a feeling ♪

♪ It's the way we live ♪

♪ Whoa ♪

♪ Obedience is the proven ♪

♪ Love is what we give ♪

♪ Don't just believe the word ♪

♪ Become the word today ♪

♪ Let it shine in your life ♪

♪ In everything you say ♪

♪ Walking like He taught ♪

♪ And let obedience lead the way ♪

♪ Don't just believe the word ♪

♪ Become the word today ♪

♪ Oh, oh, oh ♪

♪ Whoo ♪

♪ When the world is watching ♪

♪ With his hands and feet ♪

Are we staying here?

I don't know, baby.

Welcome. I'm Aylani.

Grandpa said we'd be having company.

I'm Elijah.

Are we staying here?

Yep. Come on.

Eli.

Glad you all could make it.

Come on in.

You need some help with that?

Uh, I think I got it.

You must be the friends of my father.

- Welcome. - Thank you.

- Good to meet you. - Nice to meet you too.

I'm Beverly.

I've seen you at church, right?

- Eugene, right? - Uh-huh.

- Yeah. - Yes.

Um, this is my wife, uh, Dana.

- Hi. - Hi.

And our son, Elijah,

who's already taken off with, uh.

Aylani, our daughter.

- She's a bundle of energy. - Sure.

Hello, my name's Oliver.

- Hi. Nice to meet you. - Nice to meet you.

Wife, huh?

Yeah, nice to meet you.

Nice to meet you.

Okay, baby, I just hug.

Nice to see y'all.

Okay, glad y'all are here with us.

We're all under one roof.

Brace yourselves. Mm-hmm.

Pay her no mind.

Glad you could join us.

Thank you.

This place looks like a Christmas movie.

Well, that's the goal.

It really is beautiful in here.

Yes, it is.

Make yourselves at home.

- Thank you. - Thank you.

Come on in.

Let me introduce you to the rest of the family.

Rest of the family?

There's more?

This.

Come on here and go inside.

All right.

Get it good.

All right, let's go.

I'm telling you, like.

Okay. Check this.

If time costs money,

does that mean that ATMs are time machines?

What?

See? See?

Nobody think about that.

It's the stuff that people need answers to.

Oh, all right, check this.

You got a bar of soap and you drop it on the floor.

Does the floor will get cleaner,

or does the soap get dirtier?

Where do you come up with this?

I'm telling you, people need answers.

Let's see what we got in here.

What on earth is bologna?

B-what?

That's what it says.

Wait, wait, wait.

- Bologna. - What you call it?

What is that?

Oh, you serious, ain't you?

I'm dead serious. What is it?

Okay, first of all, it's bologna, okay?

Not bologna, all right.

And it's good lunch meat.

You've clearly been deprived.

Not true, I just never heard of that.

Bologna.

Man, look, you put it in the frying pan,

burn the edges just right.

I tell you, it's a life changer.

It's so good.

You sound just like Uncle Curtis.

Yeah, Uncle Curt.

I miss him.

Me too.

You know I used to spend every holiday over here

with grandma, grandpa, Aunt Bev.

Man Uncle Curtis stayed making me feel like family.

That's because you are family.

Yeah?

Somebody needs to tell Cassidy that.

Please, she's like 10% human.

If she's even that much.

But for real though,

the family's really been tripping

about the type of roles I've been taking.

I ain't gonna lie, okay,

I was a little shocked

at the last couple roles you've taken too.

But hey, hey, hey, look,

chase your dreams by any means necessary, you know?

Right?

I mean, I just wish folks would understand

that it's all a part of the journey.

I'm not abandoning myself.

I'm expanding.

You're expanding.

Yeah.

Okay, well, look, just, just keep pushing, okay?

I mean, folks gonna talk,

so let them talk, all right?

You're right.

Just don't let anybody pressure

or force you into doing something

you don't want to do.

That was good, man.

Write that down.

Sometimes I impress myself.

Okay, chill out now, King.

Let's get this bologna cracking.

Oh, and by the way,

before you go upstairs,

open your eyes and spray yourself.

You're right.

Ooh!

Finished.

Uh-oh.

Elijah, there's just one thing.

What?

When you write Merry Xmas,

you're crossing out Christ.

Really?

My friend said Christmas

isn't even Jesus's real birthday,

and we shouldn't celebrate it.

Maybe it's not the exact day,

but it's the day everybody picks

to have a party for him.

Oh.

So like, if you have a birthday party on Saturday,

but your birthday's not really until Tuesday.

Exactly, just like that.

Oh, okay.

What matters is that we're celebrating

that Jesus was born.

That's the important part.

Well, what if my friend's family doesn't do Christmas?

Then that's okay.

But it's okay for us to celebrate too.

And nobody should make anyone feel bad either way.

Got it.

Hey, no, no, I need that,

I need that, I need the pancakes.

I need a pancake.

Is this raisins on it?

- Thank you. - There you go.

- Is there raisins in it? - Ah, two.

Yeah, thank you, baby.

I said it too.

Oh, is he doing things?

Well, well, smell like I'm just in time, family.

Surprise, mama.

Yeah. Oh, my baby.

Wait, what?

How are you here?

Well, you know I got a little break.

I figured I'd stop by for some pancakes,

you know what I'm saying?

- What's up, man? - What's up, man?

Walking up in here like you just left 10 minutes ago.

That's how I do.

Hey, man, uh, Aylani got a little boyfriend?

Hey, get out of here.

- Yo! - Oh, I thought

we'd seen a ghost.

I thought you were gonna scare the life

out of everybody.

- What's up? - But yet y'all all

still look alive.

- Crazy. - Man.

You know, you can't be surprising me

like this, baby.

Now you know I can't make no promises to you, mama.

Welcome home, family.

Appreciate you, man.

Hold up, is that bologna I smell?

I know that.

Bologna.

Come on, man, you say the word, cous.

Welcome home, boy.

Glad you're here, bro.

We gotta get a plate, man, come on.

Look at us all,

full, peaceful, all together.

This is a Christmas blessing.

That's right.

This is exactly what the holidays are for.

So, uh, am I the only one

who doesn't know my new cousins?

They're not cousins.

They're guests.

Daddy invited them.

In this family, that means you stuck with us,

so I hope you like leftovers and unsolicited advice,

because that's exactly what you about to get.

Because anybody sitting at this table is family,

blood or not.

- Exactly. - Thank you.

Yeah, buddy took his time when he made his plate.

Look like it came straight out of a magazine.

I'm just saying.

I'm John, you are?

I'm Eugene.

And this is my wife, Dana.

Hi.

This is our son, Elijah.

What's up? What's up, man?

Okay, that's cute.

Now that we're all acquainted, um,

game time?

- Oh, for sure, man. - I know you don't want this.

Smoke my boy.

Wait, hold on, hold on, fellas.

Before you're out of here,

before you're out of here, fellas.

I just want to say, listen, family.

I was driving down the road, saw a sign at a church

that said they were looking for volunteers for a toy drive.

All right, so I'm thinking we can all,

you feel me, get in the Christmas spirit

and let's go help them out.

Bro, I was just overseas.

That mean across the water.

Doing a global service community thing.

For our country.

Now you want us loading toy bins?

Just give me a day.

- 24 hours. - And I got you.

Okay, wait, wait, wait, wait.

King, what about you?

Oh, I got, um, obligations.

Yeah.

Dad, can we play too?

Uh, I guess we're gonna be gaming today.

Play fair, Eli.

You know I would if I could, bro,

but I have an audition later.

Uncle CJ, can I help with the toy drive?

Oh, actually, Aylani, remember,

we have that youth sorority informational call, remember?

Oh, Cassie, come on.

She's on Christmas break, for God's sake.

Let her swap this sorority mess for some holiday cheer.

Cassidy, look, you can get back

to that pageantry when you get back home.

This is family time now.

All right. All right.

If that's how you want to spend your time.

It is.

Baby, you go ahead on with your Uncle CJ

and spread that holiday cheer.

Appreciate y'all having my back.

Let's do it, Niece.

Let's do this.

I'll come help out.

Of course.

I'll be back down soon.

Surprising how everybody wants

to disappear when it's time to clean up.

It's okay, Auntie, I got it.

I got a few minutes before my call, so.

Thank you, darling.

Um, I'll help.

Okay. I like you.

You too.

Girl, I'm so sorry, my family is a lot.

Oh, that's okay.

Oh.

Okay, you want to start the dishes

and then I'll start on all this?

Yeah.

Oh, man.

Hello, everyone.

Thank you for coming here.

Your support means everything

to the families in need this season.

I also wanted to share that after many years,

the Hutchins' Diners will be closing.

- What? - What? No!

I know, I know.

I know, you guys.

I know, I know, I know.

But true to form,

Mr. Hutchins wanted to give one last time.

We'll host a community meal here tomorrow

using the remaining food of the diner,

and we can use your help.

If you'd like to volunteer, please do.

Hey, man, need some water over there?

Nah, I'm just admiring the view.

Ooh, you think she's pretty.

She's special.

Let's honor what the diner stood for, serving others.

Oh, y'all did a great job in this kitchen.

- Thank you. - Yeah, it looks good.

It does.

Yeah.

Dana, baby, come sit and talk with me for a minute.

Oh, okay.

So, how are you really?

I'm, I'm cool.

I'm, I'm okay.

Okay?

Yeah.

Well, I see Eugene and Elijah in church, but not you.

Yeah, church just ain't really my thing.

Mm. Church hurt?

No, it's not that.

I just, I didn't grow up in church.

And honestly, with all the drama

I hear about church folks,

it never seemed like something

I would be interested in anyway.

I hear you.

Church, church folks can be something else.

Yeah.

I should know, I'm one of 'em.

But here's what I learned, sugar,

we're all a little bit off.

But what helped me Dana was being in a community that,

of people that really keep it real.

They love God, and they actually try to grow.

And when you're in a community like that,

it, it makes you want to be better,

to try a little better.

Well, at least most days.

I don't know.

Life, life has just been heavy.

Mm.

You know, when I first met Eugene, we had it all.

I'm talking the, the house,

the, the cars, the money,

and then everything just got taken away.

Eugene, he got taken away,

and now he's back and trying,

but things are different now, real different.

Honestly, I don't know

how much more I got left in me.

Dana, heavy does not mean hopeless.

Where's your family, baby?

My mama, she died of an overdose when I was eight.

Oh my. Mm.

And I never knew my daddy,

so if I do have family out there,

nobody ever came looking for me.

But Dana, you're stronger than you think.

I don't feel strong.

I feel empty.

Mm.

I mean, I even thought about divorce.

Babe, I won't tell you what to do,

but I will tell you this,

your problem is not Eugene.

It's the weight of everything else,

and don't you mix up the two.

I know this one thing,

God will work it out for you,

but you got to let him.

You got to give it to him.

You can't try to fix it yourself.

You don't need to be trying to make

a permanent decision in the middle of a temporary storm.

Sugar, let me tell you something,

Eugene had plenty of paths he could have chosen,

but he decided to follow God and stand by his family.

Your support and encouragement in this season,

baby, it means more than you know.

And it's not in vain.

I promise you, it's not in vain.

Thank you

for the talk.

Anytime.

Man, he was gone.

Standing back, staring at her like,

like the world stopped moving.

Aylani even pointed him out,

and she was like, "You think she pretty."

And then she mentioned she needed help

for a food drive tomorrow.

This man went and signed the entire family up.

Who family?

Right.

- You, you. - Man.

Yeah, I sure did.

Look, y'all can clown me all y'all want, okay?

But I'm telling y'all, it's just something about her.

She's just different.

- Different. - Different.

Oh, man, cous than fell in love.

Tighten up, CJ.

I mean, I ain't mad at it.

When it is different, you can feel it.

You see what I'm talking about?

Right there, you see that?

You can feel it.

You can feel it.

Guys, let me break this down to you.

When God send you the right one, it'll,

it won't just stir your emotions,

but it'll steady your spirit.

Sparks fade, but God's fire

burns through losses, storms, through all seasons.

That's how you know it's Him.

The one that He sent to you will,

will bring you closer to Him, not away.

She'll cover you in prayer, challenge you in love,

and when life gets heavy, she'll walk right beside you.

And when you look at her, mm,

you won't just see beauty, you'll see purpose.

So don't go chasing every flame that flickers.

Wait on the fire that God lights

'cause I'm telling you, the one that He lights

no one can ever burn out.

That's facts.

And you know what?

Grandad right.

There's nothing wrong with being

in a committed relationship, fellas.

I'm in three of them right now.

- You feel me? - You feel me?

I'm gonna pray for you boys.

Yeah, okay, my bad, grandad.

- My bad. - Got it, bro.

What's this?

CJ signed us up for a food drive tomorrow.

A food drive?

Yeah, I think it'll be good,

especially with everything that's going on.

Eugene, no, how are we supposed to help anybody

when we can barely hold it together ourselves?

You know that's not how this works.

You spent your whole life showing up for people.

That doesn't stop just because life got hard.

Eugene, I am tired.

I don't have the energy to pretend I'm okay.

Then don't pretend.

Show up as you are.

Look, I just don't want people looking at me with pity.

Showing up for others

and serving them while you're in need yourself,

that's not pitiful, baby.

That's powerful.

Fine. All right, I'll go.

But I'm not promising I'm gonna smile through it.

Okay, well, fair enough.

Just promise not to frown.

No.

Good evening, everyone.

For those who don't know, my name is Kyra.

I'm the volunteer coordinator here

at Ark of Safety and also a server at Hutchins Diner.

I want to thank everyone who came out,

especially those who came back to help serve.

And a special thank you to Pastor Horry

for opening up the fellowship hall

so that Mr. Hutchins could do

what's been placed on his heart.

The Hutchins' Diner has been a staple

in this community for years.

Yo, look at CJ.

Eyes locked like he watching a Hallmark movie.

Yeah, for real.

Stop playing, man.

Say something, get what you came here for.

- For real. - All right, y'all.

Chill, bro. Just chill.

- I'm just- - Feeding the homeless.

Appreciating Good leadership, you feel me?

Leadership.

Boy, your heart is out here doing the Cupid Shuffle

talking about some leadership.

Hey, close your jaw.

But before we open the doors,

Mr. Hutchins would like to say a few words.

You know, Hutchins' Diner has served this community

for over 40 years, but times have changed.

The cost of food, the high cost of supplies,

everything has changed.

I've tried so hard to hold on,

but I just couldn't go any further.

So now this chapter ends.

What?

But God has put something on my heart,

not to give the food up, but to give it away.

So now every chicken, every biscuit,

every piece of cornbread,

and even every smile is for this community.

Why?

Because this community was good to me.

Aw!

You fed more than our bellies, Mr. Hutchins.

You fed our hearts.

- Yes, yes. - Yeah, that's true.

Yeah, that's true.

All right, everyone,

let's open up and serve the people.

Well, thank you, sweetheart.

You know, I lost my home a few months back.

It's just been a hard time,

and food does not stretch like it used to.

And this meal right here means the world.

I'm so sorry to hear that.

Oh, don't be sorry, honey.

God is still good.

Always good.

And it's folks like you

showing up for people like me.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Oh, look, look.

Hey, now's the perfect time, Cupid.

We'll admire her leadership.

Leadership.

♪ To the right, to the right ♪

Do your thing.

Don't y'all got something better to do.

Go be, go help the community.

Let's go, everyone!

Plates up, spirits high.

Hey, you, uh, you're pretty good

at this whole community leader thing.

I'm just trying to finish strong.

Come on in, you guys.

We got plenty of food.

Come grab a plate and we'll get you settled in.

Thank you.

Thanks for helping.

Man, John, what are you doing?

You can't say the word, right?

No, no, no, no, I'm not trying to hear all that.

Y'all real strict around here.

I said plane, not airplane.

The word is plane.

What you think, we slow?

Literally, then you go and say it

with confidence that we wasn't gonna catch it.

With all those fried brain cells,

it's shocking that you did.

Shocking that you did.

All this holiday cheer

and still no peace on earth, huh, Cass?

She always worried about the wrong thing.

Oh.

Okay, reset the timer and let's switch teams.

- Okay. - Yeah, somebody please

stop Aunt Bev from shouting the answer

before the clue's even out.

- Yeah. - Excuse me.

I'm just expressive.

Look it up.

Hey, let's just call it spirited participation.

That's it, Bishop.

I like that.

You know, grandma would be so proud

that we spent part of our vacation

helping other people that don't have much.

That made my heart really happy.

I'm sure she would, sweetheart.

You know, and I'm so happy

that your little heart found joy.

You know, we all should be reminded

to be grateful for what we have.

Yeah, being out there today,

I just kept hearing Mama in my head,

her voice, her laugh.

That's because her spirit was out there with us.

Heart like that doesn't just disappear.

I definitely felt her.

She was always giving,

always showing up for people.

That's Mama.

But sometimes giving too much just teaches people

to expect more than what they should.

Or maybe it teaches them

what love looks like in action.

Okay, I done worked up an appetite all over again.

Ooh. My dad should cook.

He makes the best food.

Like better than restaurant good.

All right. Yeah.

Yeah, I appreciate that, son,

but let's not get ahead of us.

Uh-uh.

Mm, so, Eugene, you like cook for real?

Yes, ma'am, um,

you know, I grew up in a house

full of brothers, hungry brothers.

You know, so I had no choice.

Okay, well, that's perfect

because we got a house

full of hungry brothers here too, okay though.

- You feel me? - You feel me?

And sisters.

Okay, okay.

This is the Malone Christmas,

not cafeteria Fridays.

No one's in the mood for box mashed potatoes.

- Cass. - Oh.

Oh, don't you worry, Cassidy.

If Eugene cooked, the only box you'd see

is the one you packed your leftovers in.

Mm, I know that's right.

All right, back to the game, Cass.

You're up.

Okay.

And go.

All right.

What is something that someone does

when they're trying way too hard

to try to fit in?

Act like you.

- No. - King.

Flex on Instagram.

- Designer bag. - Nope.

Influencer posts.

Yes.

This game brings out the best

and the worst in folks,

and I'm over here sweating like we at the Revival.

I think we all gonna need one.

♪ Merry Christmas to all ♪

♪ Ooh ♪

♪ Of you ♪

You okay?

I'm, yeah.

Hold on.

What's wrong?

Okay. Uh, baby, look.

I'm really sorry about what I said

about you going back to the streets.

You were frustrated.

I know you didn't mean it.

Baby, I didn't, but I just hate this struggle.

But I never want to lose you again.

And you won't.

I'm right here.

Yeah. Me too.

Bit much.

Yeah.

Hey, what's, what's up, grandpa?

Everything all right?

You, you good? You cool?

Hey, everything is good.

Nothing, don't need to put that out.

This here is your space.

Oh, so they must be getting on your nerve in there, huh?

Yeah, that's what family do.

You try to get your contact?

I'll pass, but, um,

nice car you got here.

I really like this.

Thanks, man.

I try to keep it fresh, you know?

- All right. - But.

- Hey, grandpa. - Hm?

You know that, that cologne is pretty strong, right?

Oh, you think?

I think? I know.

I can barely even breathe.

It's gonna take me at least a week

to get the smell out of my car.

You know, funny you should say that.

Marijuana is pretty strong too.

Oh, okay.

Mm.

I see what you're doing now.

Mm-hmm.

You know, I just think that

when you enter a person's space,

you have to be mindful of how you carry yourself.

You know what I'm saying?

I get that. I get it.

It's all about balance and respect.

Just like I respect your style and your space,

I ask that you respect mine.

You're right.

I guess I just,

I didn't think of it like that before.

You know, it's easy for us to fall

into our own little world,

but you got to remember, the scent that you carry,

it gives an impression.

Yeah, like that cologne you got on.

Yeah, just like this cologne.

Well, sorry.

I'll be more mindful

and I'll try to turn my fragrance down.

Appreciate that.

Listen, grandson.

The enemy is gonna try to keep you

from knowing your full worth,

but you got to respect yourself enough

not to let a habit control your lifestyle.

Do you hear me?

Yes, sir.

All right.

And I love you, boy.

I love you too, grandpa.

All right.

Now you sure you don't want to hit of this?

Boy.

All right, I'm just asking,

I'm just asking, I'm just asking.

Jesus Christ.

God made plants, grandpa.

Refined By Nature.

It's a no-brainer.

Great story, clean visuals, solid product.

Too polished.

This award's meant to launch a brand, not top it off.

Okay, well then what about Pulse Collective?

I mean, a little rough around the edges,

yeah, but their reach is exploding.

Rough around the edges is not gonna work.

We're offering a platform

and six figures, not a care package.

So we're penalizing authenticity?

Look, every candidate is strong, okay?

I mean, this might be our...

Yeah.

Well, look, clock's ticking, all right?

And just remember, it's not always

the prettiest brand that makes the biggest impact.

I'm just saying.

You see my point though?

Let's take a break.

What's on your mind?

King, at that food drive.

Yeah, I know.

Laughing with people,

serving food like everything was cool.

Probably just didn't air out enough.

You know how he is.

That's the problem, he knows better.

Vacation or not, people are watching

and it reflects on us.

All right. I'll talk to him.

No, we'll talk to him now.

Cass, it's late.

♪ I want to be greatest ♪

King.

♪ Everybody is the fans I'm meeting ♪

Dang, what, you don't knock no more?

You smelled like straight up weed

at that food drive.

There she go.

Weed, at the food drive, King?

With kids and especially your little sister

and church folks around.

I wasn't smoking at the event, Cassidy.

That's not the point.

You showed up reeking in public.

Did you think no one was gonna notice?

People are always watching.

All right, let's bring it down.

No, no, no, no, no,

because we had this conversation before

and you just can't walk up into places

smelling like that thinking that it's not a big deal.

I got it. Relax.

And that attitude is why it's a problem.

She's not wrong, son.

Just be mindful, that's all.

Noted.

And we are spending a lot of money on school.

I hope that investment is not going to waste.

Okay, so is this about me

or is it about your money?

It's about taking responsibility

and being a role model for your little sister.

First of all, I barely see Aylani.

You don't know what it's like to be me.

You live in Cassidy's world,

this perfect little bubble of yours.

- Perfect? - Yeah, perfect.

I struggled too, but I didn't run to a high.

I worked. I fought.

So what, that make you better than me, huh?

I was a holiday and birthday kid.

Unfortunately, that's the only time I mattered.

See, my father well my dad,

he was present till you showed up.

King.

No, let her talk since she know everything.

Look, there's more to that story than you realize, son.

Yeah.

We've gave you the best we could.

The best ain't good enough.

Money isn't everything, Cassidy.

Try growing up raising yourself.

Then you decide.

Either you want better or you don't.

I want out.

Enough.

And this is why I said he shouldn't have come.

King!

What in the world

- is all this noise about? - King!

- Is everything okay? - I don't know, sugar.

Somebody need to pray.

What?

Just loud, trying to get my rest.

Morning.

Morning.

Didn't sleep much last night?

Barely.

Hmm.

Do you want to talk about it?

I just can't get over last night,

the level of disrespect.

I would have never talked

to an adult like that growing up.

Hm.

Cuts pretty deep, huh?

It's not what he said,

it's how he said it,

like everything we do for him means nothing.

This generation just throws out words like knives

and expect us to just sit back and take it.

I get it.

That kind of hurt doesn't shake off easily.

But don't let how he said it

get in the way of what he said.

I mean, it is his truth.

Yeah. Well, I got my truth too.

And Oliver, he just stood there,

just let me take the weight of everything.

Hardly said anything.

Now sometimes moving too fast

can make the right words seem wrong.

So now I'm the problem.

I'm not saying that.

But what I am saying is timing matters,

and trusting your husband to lead,

well, that matters too.

He was mad at me,

like I embarrassed him.

Maybe he felt that you didn't let him

father his son the way he needed to.

But I'm his wife.

I should be able to speak too.

And you should.

But marriage is not about overpowering,

it's about partnering.

Trust that he leads in his lane,

just like he trusts you to lead in yours.

Look, both of you want what's best for King,

but if you keep fighting each other

to fight for him, then everybody loses.

I just, I don't know how to reach him.

Maybe right now, he doesn't need reaching.

Maybe what he needs is room.

But now that doesn't mean you stop praying

or stop showing up.

Lead with love, not ego.

That's how you love people to healing.

I don't like this version of love.

It's too humbling.

That's how you know it's real.

You know, it's just a day in the life for me.

Busy man.

But yo, C for real though,

you bodied that audition.

You know, the whole crew is going crazy about you.

Safe to say, you are this role.

Congrats, queen.

Thanks, Troy.

I really appreciate that, for real.

Oh, and, uh, we bumping your pay up too.

Probably should've led with that, huh?

I like the sound of that.

I just, I've been looking through the script again

and I have a few things I want to ask about.

Talk to me, beloved what's on your mind?

So in some of my scenes, there's some language

that's heavy, offensive even,

and I was wondering if there was any room

to adjust it slightly.

Like not the message, just the tone.

You did scenes like this with us before,

what's the problem now?

I know, I'm just, I'm trying to be mindful

about the type of stuff that I attach myself to.

I respect that,

but this character, she ain't polished.

She raw and people are gonna be able to relate to her.

If we go back now and start cleaning things up,

she ain't gonna be real anymore.

Okay, well, what about the nude scene?

Is there any room to tweak that?

Like maybe suggest it instead of actually showing it?

See, that is the turning point of the story.

The whole arc is built on that moment.

Okay, I get it.

Would it be okay if I just had

a little time to think about it?

I mean, sure, but we locking things in right now.

I'll tell you what,

get back to me in a few days.

If I don't hear from you,

we moving on with the next option.

No hard feelings, but this train got to keep on moving.

No, I get it. I do.

Thanks, Troy.

Always, and then look, I hope you say yes,

all right, because we need you all,

you in that body banging,

you know what I'm saying?

It's holiday time, you know what I'm saying?

You got them yams back there, babe.

You got that holiday turkey back there.

You know what I'm saying?

You sitting back there

with them collard greens,

that hog ball, you trucking back there.

We need all that on set, you feel me?

Hello?

Hello?

Hung up on me.

How's things looking?

♪ Yeah ♪

♪ Finish strong ♪

♪ Finish strong, yeah ♪

♪ Finish strong, yeah ♪

♪ Finish strong, yeah ♪

♪ Finish strong, yeah ♪

♪ Finish strong, finish strong ♪

♪ Finish strong, yeah ♪

♪ Finish strong, yeah ♪

♪ Finish strong, yeah ♪

Baby, I haven't felt this feeling in so long.

Wow.

It's so nice seeing you like this.

It's good seeing you like this too.

You know, you remember when you used

to talk about opening your own restaurant?

Man, I had so many plans.

It's funny how big you can dream

before life steps in and reshuffles everything.

Then it just is what it is.

Yeah, but babe, I really wish this was ours.

Not just us visiting, but ours.

The, the big kitchen,

the family around the table,

the dinners without the stress

of wondering how we'll make ends meet.

One day.

Dana, maybe this will be more than just borrowed moments.

It can be ours.

You think so?

Oh, I know it.

♪ Finish strong, yeah ♪

Welcome to the Malone family Christmas dinner.

Wow.

Oh, look!

Isn't it gorgeous?

This is great.

Look at the lights.

Did a great job.

- It's beautiful. - Love it, love it.

- Amazing. - Yes.

Look good, don't it?

- Mm-hmm. - Yeah.

Hello everyone.

She has arrived.

- Go, Niece. - My baby girl.

That's what I'm talking about.

I see you.

Yeah, yeah.

Well, the king of drip is in the building, baby.

Jingle bells, okay?

Okay, you almost look as good as me.

You know I be trying.

I try.

No pictures, no pictures, no pictures.

Stop!

No pictures. You look good, baby.

Look good too, momma.

Come on.

Nice.

They so good, they didn't know.

- Always in your phone. - In the phone.

- So nice of you to join us. - Hello family.

Hello.

- What's going on? - Looking at the phone.

You do not.

Come on, CJ.

You know nothing about me.

- You don't need all of that. - King could be worse.

What you saying?

- Go straight in his room. - King, hello.

- Hey babe. - You can't have your cake

and eat it too.

- What's up, nephew? - Hey.

Okay.

I laid out your suit, son.

What?

I laid out your suit.

You laid out that suit for you, not me.

Wow, you're gonna mess up

the whole photo aesthetic.

Man, you mess up the entire family dynamic.

- King, hold on a minute. - Whoa, whoa, whoa,

whoa, whoa, whoa.

No, not tonight.

Well, um, we're honored to be here,

and we thank you for letting us

share your Christmas holiday vacation with all of you.

We're so glad to have you.

Now, this dinner is our way

of showing our appreciation.

And Dana's desserts

and her decor are all a gift all on their own.

Well, the Malone family does aim to give generously,

given we covered the expenses and all.

Yes, and um, we're forever grateful.

We're just as blessed to have you all here with us.

- Thank you. - He's right.

All right, let's bless the food.

Lord God, thank you for this food

and the Malone family for helping us.

In Jesus' name. Amen.

- Amen. - Amen.

All right.

♪ This Christmas time ♪

♪ Time of the year ♪

♪ Chestnuts ♪

♪ No regret, right ♪

♪ That's why we're here ♪

♪ Ooh, baby ♪

♪ Lights on the windows ♪

Um, Cassidy,

that comment you made tonight wasn't necessary.

Excuse me.

While my husband was talking,

you just had to let everybody know

what your family paid for,

as if everyone didn't already know.

That was rude.

I'm sorry you feel that way, Dana.

I just thought you'd appreciate the generosity.

After all, we did invite you on this trip.

Is that what you call it?

You expect us to just sit there

and take your little passive aggressive jabs

because we don't fit

into your neat little picture of success?

We didn't ask for your pity, Cassidy,

and we sure as hell didn't ask for your sarcastic kindness.

I didn't mean it that way,

- I just thought that- - You don't know me,

yet you act like we're beneath you.

You walk around like you're better than everybody,

like if people don't meet your standards,

they don't deserve basic respect.

Well, newsflash, you don't have to like people, Cassidy.

You don't even like yourself.

But the way you treat them says more about you

than it ever will them.

And don't get it twisted,

we may not come from much.

We may not have the nicest things.

But what we do have is love in our hearts.

We know how to treat people where we're from, Cassidy.

But you, you wouldn't last a day

without everything you try to hide behind.

You disappeared on us tonight.

I just needed a minute.

Do you want to talk about it?

What's going on, Cass?

The pressure to show up,

to succeed, to keep proving myself,

all for people to come at me like I'm the problem,

like I don't care,

like I'm some cold, privileged, bougie woman.

They don't know what it took to get here.

They don't know what it cost me.

I know it wasn't easy.

Daddy, growing up, we didn't have much,

but what little we did have,

family, neighbors, church folks,

they took from us

with a smile on they face

and a God bless you on they lips.

Cass, come on.

And we gave and we gave and we gave

and they just kept taking.

So yeah, maybe I am guarded.

Maybe I am sharp.

Because Daddy, I am tired

of everyone celebrating struggle and calling it faith.

Cass, come

I hated that life.

Watching mama stretch groceries.

Watching you go to church and preach hope

and then come back and juggle bills.

When I went off to college,

my sorority showed me something different,

order, structure, pride.

I felt power in being polished

and having expectations,

and I needed that.

I needed to feel like

I could belong without being drained.

So when people say that I'm too much,

they don't know what's underneath that.

They don't know that I built all this

on a cracked foundation.

You're not wrong for hating lack or wanting better.

I wanted better for you too.

But baby girl, giving back didn't break us.

Letting people or circumstances

stop us from what God called us to do,

yeah, that would have.

But people never give back.

Sometimes the return isn't instant,

and it often does not come from those you gave to.

But it shapes you.

It keeps you from becoming what you're escaping.

That fire in you, that's God's nudge,

not just to, to rise, but to reach back.

Look at me.

Success without compassion

is not legacy, sweetheart.

Giving hurts.

It does, yeah,

but that's how we stay human and His.

Do you think I'm pushing Aylani too hard

with all the sorority stuff?

It just meant everything to me,

the sisterhood, the support,

and I want her to have that.

I get that.

But her foundation's got to be Christ first,

that's what will anchor her.

Just give her some space to find her way.

Yeah.

Cass, can we talk about

how you came off to King the other night?

How I came off to King,

or how King came off to me?

Listen, I get it,

you have every right to your emotions,

especially after everything that happened

back when we were dating,

before we got married.

My ex got pregnant.

Look, and you found out, you left.

It was a mess.

I don't blame you.

That hurt you in ways you probably don't even realize,

and I think that's why you push King away

because he's a reminder of that pain.

Oliver, I do not want to go down this road.

We didn't talk about it then

and I don't want to talk about it now.

But we do need to talk about it.

I'd rather not.

Just hear me out then.

The frustration you take out on him,

it's not about him, it's about me.

And that's why I'm asking you again,

Cass, will you forgive me

for the hurt I caused back then?

I know it was a long time ago,

but I've carried it, and I know you have too.

I just don't want this wall between us anymore.

I want you to try to let that go,

for him, for Aylani, for us.

I know it's hard,

and I'm not dismissing his behavior,

but I do know the deeper issue.

I believe in us Cass.

Please.

I'm gonna check if Aylani's ready,

and, uh, we can talk more when you're ready.

Hey. Oh, my bad.

I was looking for my dad.

He went up to get Aylani.

Cool.

Well, uh, just let him know I was looking for him.

King, can we talk?

Please?

Sure.

I owe you an apology, a real one.

Think?

I was wrong.

I let my emotions turn to judgment.

I said some things,

harsh things that I regret.

I get it.

But you treat me like I'm some sort of outsider.

You're not, you never were,

and if I made you feel that way, I failed you.

Look, I'm, I'm not perfect either.

Okay, I, I did my part.

But I, I don't want to be treated

like a guest in my own dad's life.

You're not a guest.

I just, I was trying to

protect my version of family.

Your own version?

Guess I'm not included in that.

I know I didn't always do the best

to make room for you.

I see you, King, I really do.

It took you long enough.

Let me make this right,

little by little, if you'll let me try.

We'll see.

- Thanks, Cass. - Okay.

Oh, what you talking about?

Catch the word.

It's the girl he met at the event the other day.

They've been there all night long.

♪ Merry Christmas ♪

All night, huh? Hm.

It's already time to go.

Feels like vacation just started.

It does, doesn't it?

But you know, like they say,

all good things must come to an end.

I guess so.

Well, look who finally decided to come inside.

Y'all, I think I've just found my wife.

That must have been one powerful

conversation y'all had last night.

Okay, mister love at first sight,

shouldn't you be packing?

It's time to go.

Right.

Uh, give me five minutes, five minutes.

All right, all right, y'all.

Let's go. Wheels up.

I got you.

Hold up, everybody.

Hold up, hold up, hold up.

Hold up, listen.

Before we depart,

let's take a moment to come together and pray.

Will you join me?

All right, Bishop.

Heavenly Father, we thank you

for this time that we spent together.

We thank you for the memories that were made,

the laughter that we shared,

and the love that connects us all.

Thank you for truth, healing,

and moments of clarity that draws us closer to you.

Father, we want to thank you

for our new family members

which we've grown to love,

Eugene, Dana, and Elijah.

Now, Lord, as we prepare to head home,

we ask for your covering and our protection and peace.

And if anyone ever were to accuse us

of being Christians dear Lord,

I ask that there be so much evidence against us

that we're found guilty without a word of doubt.

In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray.

Amen.

Amen.

Yes.

♪ Sleep in God's ♪

♪ Heavenly peace ♪

♪ Sleep in God's heavenly peace ♪

♪ My child ♪

♪ Enjoy the holiday cheer ♪

♪ For a while ♪

♪ Merry Christmas ♪

♪ Merry Christmas ♪

♪ Merry Christmas ♪

♪ Merry Christmas ♪

♪ To all ♪

Thanks, CJ.

I can't believe you did this.

The diner is gonna thrive again,

all because of your generosity.

Nah, I can't take all the credit.

I mean, it really became a reality

with the help of my dad

and, and the community.

You have no idea how grateful I am.

It's like a dream come true.

You know, just trying to put a smile

on people's faces at Christmas.

Flattery will get you everywhere, you know?

Well, then consider me on a mission

to take you everywhere, Kyra.

CJ, we got a problem.

- It's like- - Hey, Kyra.

Mind if he calls you back in a moment?

Thank you very much.

Man, what are you doing?

The caterer canceled.

What do you mean the caterer canceled?

Look, honey, I just got the news.

Calm down, guys.

Let's just try to figure this out.

How could they do this with such short notice?

There's no way we're gonna be able

to find a replacement in time.

What about Mr. Eugene?

Oh, sweetie.

You are so thoughtful.

But we are gonna need someone

with professional experience for an event like this.

Why not give him a chance, huh?

His food was delicious.

You two have got to be kidding me.

Sweetheart, at this point,

that might be our only option.

Look, all I'm saying is at least just call him and ask.

Yeah, call him.

No way.

You guys are not serious right now.

Look, so we calling him or not?

Call him.

That's odd, his, uh, his phone's disconnected.

You have Dana's number, call her.

Yeah, right you are.

Yeah, Dana's phone is disconnected too.

Exactly.

I'm gonna go make some calls.

Hey, Troy.

Can't do it.

I'm gonna have to turn it down.

Okay.

Hey, Troy.

I'm gonna have to pass on this one.

Okay.

No, no, no, no.

Must I do everything myself?

Come here.

Look, baby, you giving me Clair Huxtable right now.

I need sexy.

We're trying to go viral.

You know what that means?

All right.

Nico, come here.

Give me more red on the lips.

All right. Come here.

Just go right here.

I need her to fill it right here.

Now you, I need you to act

like your SNAP benefit just came in the mail, right?

I need you to act like you just put

your baby daddy on child support.

You about to get that check.

I need angry you,

but I need sexy in the same instance.

Am I speaking English?

All right.

You got it?

Take this phone call.

Hey, Troy.

Well, if it ain't my butterscotch queen.

My Almond Joy queen.

My cinnamon toast with all the crunch.

Talk to me, baby.

Troy, I can't do it.

I'm gonna have to pass on this one.

I got to turn it down.

Seriously, Ce?

Why is this an issue all of a sudden?

Because it's different now.

Those type of roles just don't feel right to me anymore.

Look, I'm gonna be real with you, all right?

And I'm not trying to pressure you.

But we already bumped your pay up significantly.

I mean, you're gonna be the highest paid actor on set.

What's the problem?

That's generous, but no.

It's not about the check for me.

I've done roles before that I wasn't proud of,

and I just told myself I was just acting,

and I can't pretend it doesn't bother me.

I don't want to compromise just because it's convenient.

Look, I'm offering you an opportunity of a lifetime.

You sure you want to turn this down?

I'm sure. Thanks, Troy.

I really hope it goes well for y'all.

♪ Everybody freak ♪

I said more sexy!

Where's the red lipstick?

No, no, no, no, no, no.

I'll do it for you.

Matter of fact, your service is no longer needed.

Did you really just turn that down?

Yeah, I did.

Mama would be so proud of you.

Thank you.

But what are you doing here?

I thought you couldn't make it.

You had that sorority brunch thing.

Headlining was the plan,

but this, your debut as a director,

I couldn't miss it.

I wanted to be here for you.

Who are you and what have you done with my sister?

I'm trying this be more considerate thing,

but don't get too comfortable

because I can't guarantee that it's gonna be permanent.

Oh, trust me, I'm soaking it all in.

This new version of you, kind of like her.

All right.

Well, let's get you to the stage, director.

I like the sound of that.

Don't forget these, sis.

Oh yes, please.

Hey, God.

I know I don't really talk to you.

I just, I don't know what else to do.

I don't even know how to start.

But if you're listening, please,

please just let me talk.

God, I am tired.

I'm exhausted.

I'm all out of strength.

I'm all out of options.

We're trying, but it just seems like

we can't breathe without something falling apart.

My husband, Eugene, he prays.

He believes you'll move.

Elijah's believing in this big Christmas miracle.

I want to believe like them, I really do.

But now we're being evicted,

and it's so hard to see how things can change.

I believe you're real.

I do. I really do.

But I don't know how to do this,

this, this pray or whatever this is.

But God, if you see us,

if you hear me, please.

I'm begging you, please help.

Thank you.

Yo, E, that's you?

Yeah, it's me.

Hold up, I'm gonna spin the block

real quick, all right?

Dude, that's you?

Yep.

Oh no, I can't have you going out like that, man.

Here. Take it.

Consider this an early Christmas gift.

Come on, take it. Here.

I appreciate it.

But I'm good.

Wow.

Don't tell me that they tricked you

into sipping on that Jesus juice.

It's not a trick, bro.

Well look how that's working out for you.

You know what?

Holler at me when you change your mind.

All right, I'll be here.

♪ Have your way, your way ♪

♪ God, I'm letting go ♪

♪ Have your way, control ♪

♪ I don't need to know the how, how ♪

♪ I just trust you with me now ♪

♪ God, I'm letting go ♪

♪ Have your way in my soul ♪

♪ Have your way in my soul ♪

♪ Oh, oh ♪

♪ You know every tear I've cried ♪

Cassidy?

It looks mighty good back here.

- It does- - Hey.

You wanna be back here?

Oh no, no, no, baby.

I didn't get this dressed up to work in the kitchen.

Not today.

Come on, Aunt Bev.

Good evening, everyone.

Good evening.

And merry almost Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Can we have last year's recipient Jason to the stage?

Tonight in the spirit of the season,

we come together to celebrate not just success,

but to share our blessings.

Christmas is about hope,

giving, and new beginnings.

It reminds us that giving isn't just about gifts,

but lifting up others.

Every Christmas, it's our joy to bless a local business

that embodies the true spirit of the season:

giving, resilience, and hope.

And without further ado,

the company selected will receive a $100,000 grant,

and a full year of marketing

and branding support from our team here at Launch Brands.

And this year's recipient

is Eugene's Southern Comfort Catering,

founded by Eugene and Dana Walker.

Hey y'all, you're being called to the stage.

Come on.

Hurry up, come on.

She switched it up?

And nailed it.

I don't know everything

about Mr. Eugene and Ms. Dana,

but I know life's been really hard for them.

Mr. Eugene never stopped believing God would come through,

and maybe this is God's way

of honoring Mr. Eugene's faith,

and showing Ms. Dana he's real.

I think that's pretty amazing.

It's an honor to pass this to you both.

Congratulations.

Your story is everything this award celebrates,

resilience, faith,

and the power of blessing others through your gifts.

We, uh, we didn't see this coming.

At all.

Um, we didn't ask for this.

Truthfully, we didn't think we belonged in this room.

But that's the beauty of grace.

It shows up when you least expect it,

and reminds you that you don't have

to be perfect to be chosen.

Anyone that's out there,

if you're feeling like your past disqualifies you,

look at us as proof

that God can write beautiful stories

from broken beginnings.

To Launch Brands, thank you for seeing us.

We accept this honor with humility,

and we promise to pay it forward.

Thank you, Jesus.

Thank you all.

Son.

See, Mom?

I told you, God can do big things.

Yes, He can, baby.

You should be so proud.

You did the right thing.

I thought building meant control,

power, perfection.

But I see it now.

It's people, purpose, love,

even when it's rough around the edges.

And Oliver, I forgive you.

I am really proud of you.

Me too.

This Christmas, let's hold close

what matters most,

faith, humility, and the gift of giving.

Not just the gifts we wrap, but the kind we carry,

our time, our compassion, our love,

and even our resources.

Life doesn't always follow the script we imagine.

It brings detours, heartbreaks,

and even moments we don't understand.

But through faith, we find our footing,

and while the world says blood makes us family,

it's the blood of Jesus that truly makes us one.

It restores, heals, and unites us.

So, as we celebrate today,

may we remember the greatest gift

has already been given,

God's unconditional love and His grace.

Merry Christmas, everyone.

- Yeah! - Oh!

♪ Ooh ♪

♪ Ooh ♪

♪ Yeah ♪

♪ Snow falling ♪

♪ Bills piling ♪

♪ But I'm still smiling ♪

♪ Ain't got it all ♪

♪ But I got belief ♪

♪ That's enough for me ♪

♪ Lights on the block ♪

♪ They twinkle like gold ♪

♪ Grandma's sweep prayers still warming my soul ♪

♪ We ain't got much but love's in there ♪

♪ And the beat of my chest means I'm still here ♪

♪ Don't need no diamonds or a flight to Rome ♪

♪ As long as my people can make it home ♪

♪ I've seen hard days ♪

♪ But I'm standing strong ♪

♪ Wrapped in a moment where hope belongs ♪

♪ Your Christmas owes me nothing ♪

♪ I already got the gift ♪

♪ Life tried to break me ♪

♪ But I learned how to shift ♪

♪ Pain in the past but I ain't looking back ♪

♪ I've joy in my pocket and love in my bank ♪

♪ Oh ♪

♪ Christmas owes me nothing ♪

♪ I'm here, I'm whole ♪

♪ And I'm blessed ♪

♪ That's enough ♪

♪ Yeah ♪

♪ Candy Cane Lane where the dreams don't sleep ♪

♪ Presents ain't plenty, but the love run deep ♪

♪ Mama worked doubles ♪

♪ Pop stayed prayed ♪

♪ Still made magic for minimum wage ♪

♪ We toast with Faygo, not champagne flutes ♪

♪ But the fam laughed loud in them church pews ♪

♪ This for the ones who ain't had no sleigh ♪

♪ But still gave thanks every single day ♪

♪ Oh, fire in the heart ♪

♪ But it's fighting me ♪

♪ I light up the room when I choose to believe ♪

♪ The streets ain't easy, but I still got peace ♪

♪ And midnight stars is still guiding me ♪

♪ This Christmas owes me nothing ♪

♪ I already got the gift ♪

♪ Life tried to break me ♪

♪ But I learned how to shift ♪

♪ Pain in the past ♪

♪ But I ain't looking back ♪

♪ Got joy in my pocket and love in my bank ♪

♪ Oh ♪

♪ Christmas owes me nothing ♪

♪ I'm here, I'm home ♪

♪ I'm blessed ♪

♪ We made it through the cold ♪

♪ Held each other close when the nights got bold ♪

♪ It wasn't the gifts ♪

♪ It was grace Dad showed ♪

♪ And that's why I know I already own gold ♪

♪ Christmas owes me nothing ♪

♪ I already got the gift ♪

♪ Life tried to break me ♪

♪ But I learned how to shift ♪

♪ Pain in the past, but I ain't looking back ♪

♪ Got joy in my pocket ♪

♪ And love in my bank ♪

♪ Say oh ♪

♪ Christmas owes me nothing ♪

♪ I'm here, I'm home ♪

♪ I'm blessed ♪