When Vivian Elaine Johnson was a young girl growing up in Minnesota, she never imagined she would face so many of life's storms. Yet through her challenges--including intimate dealings with a sociopath, a wrenching sorrow over an untimely death, suspicions of being a spy, and the insidious illness of a loved one--she somehow found the inner strength to bend and not break. In The Willow Tree and Me, Vivian shares her frailties and failures as well as her strengths and accomplishments. Her story inspires us to embrace our struggles, discover our courage, remain resilient, and find joy even in life's difficulties. "Vivian Johnson discloses the raw reality of a human life with honesty and tenderness, revealing her resilience and gratitude, deep love for her family, and resolve to live her own life with freedom and gladness. I found myself comforted and energized by reading this most compelling memoir." —Walter Brueggemann, author of Prophetic Imagination and Money and Possessions "With stories both heartbreaking and joyous, the author invites us to join her as she finds the strength to heal from anger and carve out a life of meaning and purpose. This beautifully written, deeply personal narrative is a gem, and Vivian is a treasure." —Tricia Aynes, retired attorney and Moderator, Irvine United Congregational Church