Words To Boost Self-Esteem of Ocean County Kids

Pink said some inspiring words last night at MTV's Video Music Awards.  As she accepted the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award, Pink mentioned a teachable moment she had with her daughter.  6 year old Willow talked about how she feels ugly compared to the other girls she knows.  Mama Pink then made a PowerPoint presentation showing successful musicians of all types, and then shared this powerful lesson:

"We take the gravel in the shell and we make a pearl.  And we help other people to change so they can see more types of beauty."

Parents and Teachers of Ocean County:  What would YOU say to a child who feels ugly?

I went through a phase in grade school where I was much taller than everyone else so I felt gawky and unattractive.  Thankfully my Mom reassured me that when I'm older I'll see my height as a positive trait.  And the boys, she said, would someday 'sprout up like beans' to equal my height or get even taller.

Are there some specific words you remember YOUR parents telling you?  What do you say to your kids to boost their self-esteem?