In this heartfelt conversation with author Clarissa Moll, we explore the realities of grief, parenting through loss, and the hope that sustains us. Together, we talk honestly about the loneliness of grief, how the church can step into its calling as a healing community, and the ways parents can support their children while tending to their own broken hearts. Clarissa reminds us that resilience is learned, but resurrection is a gift only God can give—and both shape how we walk through sorrow with open hearts and anchored hope.

Key Takeaways:

1. Grief often isolates us, but the church can be a place of belonging and healing when it leans into its role as a supportive community.
2. Practical, proactive offers of help (like meals, errands, childcare) serve grieving families better than vague questions.
3. Children grieve in ways consistent with their personalities—some express it outwardly, others through activity or art.
4. Parents don’t have to do this alone—teachers, coaches, friends, and church leaders can all form a vital circle of support.
5. There is no set timeline for grief; prolonged changes in eating, sleeping, or behavior may signal a need for additional help.
6. Resilience is a skill we can learn, but resurrection is God’s unique work—reminding us that our hope is never wasted.
7. Grief, while painful, can reorient our hearts to deeper intimacy with God and compassion for others.

Website: www.clarissamoll.com

Instagram: @mollclarissa

Substack: clarissamoll.substack.com

========================================================

We LOVE that you’ve decided to join us this week for the Living Wholehearted Podcast. We hope you enjoyed the conversation, tips, and resources to help you transform every relationship that matters most to you. If you think this will help someone you know, make sure you send it their way or share on socials. Tag us @living_wholehearted and @terramattson! Don't forget to FOLLOW/SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss an episode and help spread the word by leaving us some stars on a review. Thanks for partnering with us to help more leaders, just like you, who want to live and lead with integrity at home, work and in the community. Go to livingwholehearted.com and sign up to receive our free leadership tips and updates delivered to you in our monthly newsletter. And, if you’re a girl mom, check out mycourageousgirls.com.  

Until next time, be the leader you would follow!

 

Grateful for you,

Jeff & Terra

 

To connect with Jeff & Terra Mattson and Living Wholehearted, go to:

 

INSTAGRAM

@TerraMattson

@Living_Wholehearted

@MyCourageousGirls

 

FACEBOOK

@WeAreLivingWholehearted

@MyCourageousGirls

 

WEBSITES

LivingWholehearted.com

TerraMattson.com 

MyCourageousGirls.com

 

RESOURCES

Shrinking the Integrity Gap 

Shrinking the Integrity Gap e-Course 

Courageous: Being Daughters Rooted in Grace

Dear Mattsons 

Helping Moms Raise Confident Daughters

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/living-wholehearted-podcast-with-jeff-and-terra/donations