Write Your Way Back

Father's Day Edition

Happy Father’s Day! This day hasn’t always been happy for me. Over the last 15 years, this day has evoked a range of emotions, from happiness to relief, sadness, and even despair. It’s not that I don’t have a deep sense of joy from the experience of fatherhood; I do. However, the situations surrounding fatherhood have produced a wide range of experiences on and around this day.

That’s why I am happy to announce that I will be working with Cristal Brister and her company, Emerge from Hiding, to co-host one of her signature events. Write Your Way Back is a one-day grief journaling gathering that creates space for people to come together in community and process the complex stuff of life. They have been hosted on a variety of topics, and I am excited to be a part of the first Father’s Day edition of this program.

This is for everybody, but fellas, this is also for you. We are creating space for us—a place to process the difficult emotions that arise around Father’s Day.

Grief Journaling

Yeah, I know. I was skeptical, too. When my wife first introduced this concept of grief journaling to me, I thought that it was an excellent outlet for her. However, when she invited me to one of her workshops, I didn't think I would benefit from it or even like it. I thought, wait, that's good for you, but that's not my thing.

Man, was I wrong. I found myself processing complex emotions using these stickers; don't judge me, as they provided a creative outlet for the volcano inside me. The best part is that I could process my pain and experiences in a community setting but without the pressure to share what I wrote. I had support but wasn't pushed to talk; I could just write.

Now, I know what some of you are thinking. "Danny, you're a writer, that's what you do. I'm not a writer. I'm not even that good at writing. I don't think this is for me." I understand that, but it's not so much about your ability to write, as it's a skill that helps you navigate the complex. Yes, I am a writer; it's something I love and enjoy doing. But here's a peek behind the curtain. Not every writer excels at writing about everything, and for me, I haven't always been the best at discussing or writing about deep emotions. It has been a long road of learning and applying this skill to my life.

Next Steps

I’m inviting you to take a courageous step with me. To deal with that pain, to write it out. Will you join us on Sunday, June 8, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. CST?

Here is the link to register (It’s free, no upsell). Also, you’ll find the official description for the event! Hope to see you there!

Description & Registration Link: bit.ly/wywbfde

Father's Day can be a challenging day for many people for various reasons. Danny Brister, Jr., and Cristal Brister will be co-facilitating this edition of "Write Your Way Back" for those who could use some additional support around this holiday.

• Perhaps your father(figure) or grandfather(figure) has passed away

• Or you're estranged or have been alienated from your child

• Maybe your dad wasn't around and you are still dealing with the fallout of that reality

• Perhaps you are divorced and navigating a "new normal"

• Or your father(figure) has Alzheimer's and you've switched roles

• Maybe you're a "step"dad or "adoptive/ foster"dad who feels different from other dads

Whatever your circumstance, we've created a supportive space with you in mind.

You can expect mostly writing prompts and opportunities to share (of course, sharing is not required), along with a bit of prayer and a dash of worship.

This will be a space to honor yourself and/ or those you've lost.

If you or someone you know could use some additional support this year (a 10-day journaling resource will be provided to attendees), please join us Sunday, 6/8 via Zoom @ 3pm CST.

Link to register: bit.ly/wywbfde