Larry D Laine

I am a pastor, poet, and storyteller whose roots run deep in the farms and river valleys of central California. After the death of my daughter, I began writing poems as a way of expressing my grief and finding a path toward healing. Those poems became In Remembrance Of . . . and grew into a larger body of work exploring grief, faith, memory, and the experiences that shape a life.

A Walk with Grief is a companion to In Remembrance Of . . . Drawing upon many of the original poems, it offers reflections and discussion questions for individuals and grief-support groups. It is not intended to explain grief or hurry anyone through it. Instead, it gently accompanies readers as they mourn, remember, and honor those they have loved.

Although I have been writing for decades, I did not publish my first book until late in life. Since then, the words have flowed like a fountain of youth, making this one of the most creative and fulfilling seasons of my life.

My faith-centered writing includes two books inspired by the teachings of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount, particularly the Beatitudes. Moments That Hold Us is a contemporary devotional designed for personal reflection and group study, especially during Lent. The Way of Blessing explores the lifelong journey of becoming the people God calls us to be—and, in turn, becoming a blessing to others.

While much of my writing centers on faith and its expression in daily life, I am also drawn to the sacredness of ordinary experience. Where the Rows Run Long is a collection of vignettes from my childhood on the farms of central California. These stories reflect upon the people, places, hardships, and lessons that shaped my values and influenced the direction of my life and ministry.

I have also written three children’s books that are currently being reviewed by my editors for possible publication: Thomas Made a Promise, Get Off the Ark! Disembark, and The Great Balloon Race.

I am now writing stories from my high school, college, and seminary years, reflecting upon the experiences and relationships that influenced my life, faith, and ministry.

I share my life with my wonderful wife, Diane. Together, we have raised three daughters and have been blessed with five grandchildren, each of whom brings great joy to our lives. Through all my writing - whether about grief, faith, childhood, or family - I hope to help readers recognize the meaning, grace, and sacredness present in ordinary life.