Excellent point regarding “self-esteem”, wolf. While other people's comments may prove useful in determining how other's observe us, our self worth should be defined by ourself.

Statements such as, “he called me a name and ruined my self-esteem” have always made me cringe.

As an adult, I define my personal worth with little influence from others.

“Sticks and stones...” should not only apply to bad comments. An expertly targeted compliment can be manipulative as well.

I find it impossible to completely determine the motives of most people I interact with on a daily basis. (Not that I'm distrusting...) Without the “why” it's hard for me to apply much weight to their comments.

I “am”... no matter what anyone says... until this body I wear expires.