I define vulnerability as uncertainty, risk and emotional exposure. With that definition in mind, let’s think about love. Waking up every day and loving someone who may or may not love us back, whose safety we can’t ensure, who may stay in our lives or may leave without a moment’s notice, who may be loyal to the day they die or betray us tomorrow—that’s vulnerability.

I'm not a parenting expert. In fact, I'm not sure that I even believe in the idea of 'parenting experts.' I'm an engaged, imperfect parent and a passionate researcher. I'm an experienced mapmaker and a stumbling traveler. Like many of you, parenting is by far my boldest and most daring adventure.

If we can share our story with someone who responds with empathy and understanding, shame can't survive.

Don't try to win over the haters; you are not a jackass whisperer.

You are imperfect, you are wired for struggle, but you are worthy of love and belonging.

I'm just so grateful, because to feel this vulnerable means I'm alive.

Hope is really a thought.