Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! In this episode, host Jane Stahl shares her favorite "Christmas specials": Albert Brooks’ movie "Defending Your Life" and Shakespeare’s play "King Lear." Both begin with the ultimate life challenges--death and/or grief and suffering--yet end with love. "Defending Your Life" delivers a meaningful message wrapped in a delightful comedy. "King Lear," on the other hand, is Shakespeare’s greatest tragedy addressing major life issues that test our resolve, our faith, and our resilience. In both, love is the answer and, as Christmas specials, remind us of the "reason for the season."