“When we were children, we used to think that when we were grown-up we would no longer be vulnerable. But to grow up is to accept vulnerability. To be alive is to be vulnerable.”Madeleine L’Engle

Joanne Jolee

Joanne Jolee in the Arizona White Mountains

Some years ago I decided to explore my vulnerabilities. I wanted to understand them and fix them. By definition, vulnerability is being capable of or susceptible to being wounded or hurt. We are all in some way vulnerable.

Dr. Brene Brown, research professor at the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work, began her own clinical study of vulnerability with a goal of “deconstructing  and outsmarting it.”  Six years later she concluded that it all boils down to a sense of worthiness and the courage to be imperfect. And we must fully embrace our vulnerabilities, understanding that they are the basis for compassion, joy and creativity.

When I was writing my song, Vulnerable, I wanted to resolve the vulnerability issue by the final chorus – I was going for a neat and tidy conclusion as I usually do.  But I couldn’t make it work and then I realized that the vulnerability is always present and always the same, so I left it alone and launched into a sweeping piano solo as a statement of acceptance and strength.

Listen to Vulnerable