Sticks and Stones

It’s said sticks and stones may break my bones

But words shall never hurt me.

If that’s the case, then why does it feel

Like someone drove over my heart

When I hear those cruel, taunting words?

Like a run-over toad left vulnerable to

The indifferent cold on the road.

When I find out that malicious gossip

Has spread about me like wildfire,

Why does it feel like

My peace of mind has been stolen and

A toll has been taken on my body?

Although it’s said words shall never hurt me,

I hate to admit it-

They do.