Sticks and stones may break my bones But words will cut me deep They’ll keep on hurting long after The breaks and bruises heal

Because the sticks will meet my skin, The stones may hit my bones But words will carve their way beneath And make my soul their home

And this gives them the power To control me and to win ‘Cause now I’ve words of worthlessness From outside and within

See stones are thrown in anger But our words are thrown in spite And whilst they’re easier to pitch They’re more difficult to fight

Because we cant run away, We cannot just unhear them, Because their echoes resonate Long after we are near them

And if we are not careful Then those words become our voice One that learns to shout the loudest And to make the biggest noise

So do not be the reason Someone hates their own reflection Or thinks they are not worthy Or deserving of affection

when you pick your words Weigh them awhile between your palms Consider whether hurling them Will heal or hurt or harm

Yes, sticks and stones may break a bone But words can break a heart And they can be the reason Someone tears themselves apart

So if you wouldn’t break their bones By throwing stones and sticks It’s likely for the best That some words do not leave your lips