When I was a little girl I retaliated to harsh words from my elementary classmates with sticks and stones may break my bones, but words may never hurt me. It sounded good at the time to snap back sarcastically at their hurtful words in hopes of drowning out the humiliation I received. Words are powerful whether spoken or written. Look at the depressed child who grew up being told he would never amount to anything, then look at the jovial one who was raised with praise and encouragement. Words affect self-esteem, your state of mind, your personality, and ultimately, your…