Sticks and stones

I remember when I was on my way home from church one day and my grandmother told me the famous saying:

Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me.

Now I do understand why as a child a message like this would be given to a child but I am one who does not believe that this quote is true. I think words can truly leave scars just like whips can. I like how parents try to motivate their child to think above these words that may hurt them. But I bet these parents are holding onto words that once hurt them. So maybe instead of telling children to ignore the words that are thrown their way. We should teach them how to cope with these words and that words do not limit what you can become. Or maybe parents are right WORDS do not hurt the child but but phrases do. I mean if some called you a bitch vs. a sloppy fat cow which one would stick with you more. I do not know what I will do as a parent but I do know that words truly do hurt..so what should be done.