In this powerful conversation, Laura talks with award-winning novelist and journalist John DeDakis, who shares how writing became a source of healing after the death of his son, Stephen.

Even if you've never thought of yourself as a writer, this episode offers hope and encouragement to help you process your grief in a deeply personal way. John and Laura talk about the soul-searching journey of faith after loss, the spiritual unmooring that many bereaved parents experience, and how putting words to your pain can bring clarity, peace, and even glimpses of joy again.

John shares practical tips on how to begin writing (whether journaling, storytelling, or simply putting thoughts to paper) and why it doesn't matter what form it takes. Writing can be a sacred act of remembrance, helping you express emotions you may not be able to speak out loud.

Laura also reflects on how writing can be a spiritual practice, like David's raw and honest psalms as a way to lament, process, and honor your child's continuing place in your heart and life.

If you've ever wondered whether writing could help you heal, this heartfelt discussion will give you gentle encouragement and practical insight to start.

John Dedakis is a writing coach, an award-winning novelist of six mystery-suspense-thriller novels, and manuscript editor. He is a former White House correspondent and former editor on CNN’s “The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer.”, John regularly leads writing workshops at literary centers and writers' conferences. He is also the host of the video podcast One-to-One with John DeDakis . Originally from La Crosse, Wisconsin, John now lives with his wife Cindy in Baltimore, Maryland. In his spare time, what little he has of it, is a jazz and rock-and-roll drummer.

(Note: The views and opinions of our guests outside of this podcast may not be in agreement with GPS Hope.)

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