A Song of Gentle Wisdom
The title itself, It Takes What It Takes, carries a sense of quiet wisdom. The phrase suggests that some things in life simply cannot be rushed or forced. Rather than resisting or lamenting hardships, the song encourages listeners to acknowledge them as part of the journey. This theme of acceptance is not passive; it is about understanding that challenges are unavoidable and sometimes the best way forward is to move through them, trusting in time and experience.
Through her reflective lyrics, Judith Durham captures the essence of learning to let go—letting go of what we cannot control and embracing what is necessary for growth. This concept is particularly poignant in today’s fast-paced world, where people often feel pressured to find quick fixes for their problems. The song’s message suggests that healing, growth, and personal change take time, patience, and acceptance.
Judith Durham’s Signature Vocal Style
One of the most remarkable aspects of the song is Durham’s performance. Her voice, both familiar and comforting, carries the same warmth that defined her earlier work but with an added layer of maturity and introspection. While her earlier songs with The Seekers were often buoyant and hopeful, her solo work, including It Takes What It Takes, reveals a deeper emotional range.
Durham’s delivery in this song is measured and sincere, reflecting the message of patience embedded in the lyrics. There is no rush in her phrasing—every line feels deliberate, as if she is guiding the listener through a gentle meditation on life’s uncertainties. Her vocals possess a soothing quality, making it easy for listeners to connect emotionally with the song’s message.
The arrangement complements her voice beautifully. With soft instrumentation, including delicate piano notes and understated strings, the music provides a subtle backdrop that allows Durham’s vocals to shine. This simplicity in the arrangement reinforces the theme of acceptance—nothing feels forced, and every musical element is allowed to unfold naturally.
Universal Themes of Acceptance and Patience
The lyrics of It Takes What It Takes touch on themes that are universally relatable. Life is full of unexpected challenges—whether in relationships, health, or personal ambitions—and often, people struggle with the idea that things might not happen according to their plans. The song acknowledges these difficulties but gently reminds the listener that some things simply take time to resolve or come to fruition.
There is also an undercurrent of emotional healing in the song. Durham’s lyrics suggest that, just as certain events are beyond our control, emotional healing follows its own timeline. Whether recovering from personal loss, setbacks, or disappointments, the song reassures us that it’s okay to not have all the answers immediately. “It takes what it takes,” Durham seems to say, “and that’s okay.”
This message is particularly resonant for those going through difficult times. In a world where people are often told to “move on” or “stay positive,” It Takes What It Takes offers a more compassionate approach: healing doesn’t follow a set timeline, and it’s okay to take things one step at a time.
A Personal Reflection on Life’s Journey
Given Judith Durham’s own life experiences, the song feels especially personal. Over the years, Durham faced many challenges, including health issues and personal losses. Her ability to continue performing, composing, and inspiring others speaks to her resilience and commitment to music. It Takes What It Takes can be seen as an intimate reflection on her own journey—both as an artist and as an individual navigating the complexities of life.
In this way, the song serves as a testament to Durham’s inner strength. It is not merely a song about endurance; it’s about finding peace amidst life’s uncertainties. By sharing this message, Durham invites listeners to be kinder to themselves and to trust the process, even when things seem difficult or unclear.
A Legacy of Inspiration
It Takes What It Takes is more than just a song—it’s a gentle reminder that life is a journey with ups and downs, and that every experience, whether joyful or painful, has its place. For Judith Durham, who dedicated her life to music and touched so many hearts along the way, this song feels like a gift to her audience—a piece of wisdom she has gathered over the years, shared through her music.
The song’s message is timeless. Whether we are struggling with personal challenges, facing the unknown, or simply trying to make sense of life, It Takes What It Takes offers comfort. It tells us that it’s okay to feel uncertain, and it’s okay to take our time. In a way, the song embodies the essence of mindfulness—being present, accepting what is, and trusting that things will unfold as they are meant to.
Conclusion
Judith Durham’s It Takes What It Takes is a poignant and beautiful reminder that life cannot always be controlled or predicted. Through her soothing voice and heartfelt lyrics, Durham encourages us to let go of unrealistic expectations and embrace the journey with patience and acceptance. The song offers comfort to anyone struggling with life’s challenges, reminding us that healing and growth happen in their own time.
As part of Durham’s rich musical legacy, It Takes What It Takes stands out as a testament to her emotional depth and wisdom. It is a song that not only resonates with her fans but also serves as a gentle guide for navigating life’s uncertainties. In the end, it teaches us a valuable lesson: whatever it takes, it will take—trust the process, and everything will come together in time.