Sticks and Stones

"Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me." Odds are you heard this and probably even said this as a child. It was our way of being tough and standing up for ourselves.

However, the truth is words can be more damaging than sticks and stones. Words cut so deeply and the effects last far longer than physical evidence. Sadly, kind words spoken to or about us are easily brushed aside but the negative words, they cut deep, they last, and they rarely miss their mark.

When those damaging words are said within a relationship that's very unhealthy. People consider that an abusive relationship only happens when someone becomes violent, but the truth is verbal, psychological, and emotional abuse are just as damaging. Using words to attack someone often makes them feel small and insignificant, causing them to become more and more withdrawn and isolated. They will start to internalize bad events and situations and actually start to believe they are truly the cause of everything bad that's happening. That's not the truth at all, but once someone has been verbally abused repeatedly it is difficult for them to see they aren't responsible for all the bad in the world.

Have you or someone you know been the victim of verbal, psychological, and/or emotional abuse? You're not alone, it happens all too often and we bury it away because let's face it... "Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me".

As a certified life coach, I've been there and I use my knowledge to help victims find their own path and direction through self-love, inner peace, and faith towards survival and independence. If you or someone you know is suffering and struggling from verbal, psychological, or emotional abuse, reach out. There is help and it starts with making a choice to be accepting of yourself no matter what others have said about you.