What do you say to someone who is grieving? And how can we hold on to hope when life brings heartbreaking loss?
On this episode of A Woman’s Heart, Lisa Granger talks with Johanna Rojas Vann about faith, grief, and finding peace in the middle of sorrow. Johanna’s latest novel, Where Wilted Flowers Bloom, was several years in the making, but the story became deeply personal when Johanna experienced a miscarriage after writing the book.
Johanna shares why well-meaning phrases like “time heals all wounds” or “your baby is in a better place” can fall short when someone is facing fresh grief. Instead, she encourages us to offer practical help, show up consistently, and simply be present when words aren’t enough.
Lisa and Johanna also explore the value of intergenerational relationships, the wisdom we can gain from those who have walked before us, and the hope we can find in God even when our circumstances are painful. Johanna reminds us that grief and peace can coexist, and that we can pursue the passions God places on our hearts even when life feels impossibly full.
About Johanna Vann
Johanna Rojas Vann is the multi-award-winning author of An American Immigrant, recipient of the Christy Award for First Novel and winner of the International Latino Book Award for Best First Book. Her debut novel was also a Silver Winner of the Isabel Allende Most Inspirational Book Award and a finalist for the Tennessee State Book Award. Johanna lives outside Nashville, Tennessee, with her husband and children, where she enjoys baking bread, chasing preschoolers around playgrounds and libraries, and writing inspirational fiction.
3 Key Takeaways
Show up instead of searching for perfect words. Practical help, a listening ear, and a caring presence can offer more comfort than well-meaning clichés.
Grief and hope can coexist. We can experience deep sorrow while trusting in God’s promises and the hope of eternity.
Pursue the passions God places on your heart. Even in busy or difficult seasons, trust God to multiply what you have to offer.
Learn more about Johanna and her books in Instagram @johannarvann and at johannavann.com.
