I've read of this before, but not in such depth. This sentence from the end resonates, the power of humble self-exposure coupled with self-confidence in one's resiliency regardless of outcome.
Vaillant’s confession reminded me of a poignant lesson from his work—that seeing a defense is easier than changing it. Only with patience and tenderness might a person surrender his barbed armor for a softer shield. Perhaps in this, I thought, lies the key to the good life—not rules to follow, nor problems to avoid, but an engaged humility, an earnest acceptance of life’s pains and promises.