I feel the same way you do, about your friends telling you that you are the strongest person that they know. It is so true that they only way for someone to appear strong to others is if they live through something and still have a smile. I bacame a single mother in highschool and have been in and out of long term and short term emotionally abusive relationships, been homeless and managed to stay focused on parenting and college. I don't see this as being any stronger than anyone else...I have just had to prove the strength that is inside of everyone (and I know that you have too). I believe that what doesn't kill you only makes you (realize that you are) stronger. It seems like we both felt close to this book!