My dear KC,
If you think your friends can't tell when you are hurting you are missing the signs. We know, we care, we wait and stand by if you need us. It is the reason you call us friends to begin with.
Mark,
No one ever thought you were looking for sympathy, or at least most of us didn't. You come in to talk and by sharing your pain lessen it. A load shared is a load lightened. Not everyone can do it. Some are better at trying to hide it or trying to deal with it all on their own. Sometimes it is just the idea you aren't alone that allows you to continue on.
Lilly,
Glad you were honest and got that out in the open. Sometimes the best way to deal with a problem is head on. Doesn't make it easy, or less painful, just the best way sometimes.
For those who were concerned about me, well I am still here, still pushing on, and still doing my bit to try to help others and maybe help myself along the way.