You would have kept those words on your tongue
If you had known the hurt they had done
While your fists stayed right, right by your side
Your words, they bruise me deep inside

I'd rather have sticks and stones
And broken bones
Then the words you say to me
'Cause I know bruises heal
And cuts will seal
But your words beat the life out of me

Sometimes your words are thick as lead
You swing them strong upside my head
What hasn't killed has made me strong
So I'll take my scars and move along

I'd rather have sticks and stones
And broken bones
Then the words you say to me
'Cause I know bruises heal
And cuts will seal
But your words beat the life out of me

Goodbye is the best way that I know
To forgive and still be letting go

I'd rather have sticks and stones
And broken bones
Then the words you say to me
'Cause I know that bruises heal
And cuts will seal
But your words beat the life out of me