ABSTRACT
In the imaginations of Tom (an 80-year-old American), Emma, and our other
study participants (see Table A.1 for a summary of their personal characteristics),
life has been an exciting opportunity for growth and learning. Their narratives,
as crafted on the spot during the interviews, were occasions to remember life
experiences, reflect on personal growth, mourn as they recalled bad times,
and celebrated love, development, and joy. This book is a continuation of the
celebration, a chance to share the stories and reflect on what we, as researchers,
learned about human strength from the study participants.
