The quote "I take comfort in the stone inside of me. If I don't feel, I don't hurt" from Katie McGarry's book "Dare You To" reflects a deep emotional struggle. It suggests that the character has built up emotional barriers as a way to protect herself from pain. This metaphor of having a "stone" inside symbolizes her internal fortification, where numbing her feelings seems like a safe strategy to avoid heartache.

This perspective highlights the complexity of dealing with emotional trauma, showing how people often associate vulnerability with suffering. The idea of not feeling to escape hurt resonates with many who have faced difficult experiences, indicating a longing for safety at the expense of connection. Ultimately, this captures the conflict between the desire to protect oneself and the innate human need for emotional intimacy.