This time the old adage is not true; words really do hurt. Especially if you know your opponent’s insecurities. It has always been funny to me when people tell you to “brush things off” or “don’t let it get to you”. Uh, if I knew how to do that, don’t you think that would be the first thing I’d do? It’s not like I want to sit and feel the sting of someone’s words over a long period of time. I’m not a masochist by any means. Given the right combination of words, they can leave a gaping subconscious wound that goes right for the jugular. In my opinion, taking a punch to the face is a hell of a lot easier than taking a verbal tongue lashing. Bruises on your skin heal more quickly than bruises to your ego.

I know that the “sticks and stones” mantra comes from a good place. It is meant to inspire the disenfranchised to believe that the only power others have is the power that we give them. I do agree, however they forgot one little symbol in that equation: time.It takes time to heal for verbal wounds. Ok, there may be some who are coated in teflon (good for you, I secretly hate/envy you). But for the rest of us mere mortals, words do hurt; and forgive and forget is easier said than done.