That's the worst advice I've ever heard.
Real men have feelings, and are not emotionless stereotypes- even if they choose to repress their feelings which happens all too often in this type of bullying situation. Have some empathy.
Talking about it is the first step, and you've got a lot of perspectives here to take from. What's really holding true here are two main things:
1. Remember that their bullying is
no fault of yours, as you can't be responsible for their low self esteem.
2. Bullies work their magic on people by trying to boost their confidence by taking away yours. The
reaction is mainly what they're looking for, and is also wha's being given to them (hence, they continue.) Words are words, and you have every right to feel hurt by them.... but these bullies have also learned how to push your buttons for a desired effect. Don't let them have it. Eventually they will find another punching bag.
The real issue here is not that they do not respect you, it is that they have no respect for themselves. If I knew this when I was your age and back in school being bullied I'd have had a much easier time.... of course this is in retrospect but I do remember the times I was pushed around....
One time I was surrounded by a group of mexican gangmembers in gym class while outside waiting to go into the locker room to change clothes. They backed me up against a wall and proceeded to start calling me some pretty nasty names in both english and spanish (thinking I couldn't comprehend their language.) They were very 'skilled' in their art and it was evident by the way they were able to make me feel
hideous on the inside... but all I did was stand there expressionless as they called me names and even slapped me around. Eventually they left and took their aggression out on some other nerd. After a couple of times trying to 'rouse' me they gave up. Believe me, it's all in your reaction!
I know how you feel man but don't be afraid to open up to people (which you've obviously done here) and don't listen to them if they try to intimidate you into not telling. The authority is there for a reason. My heart goes out to you.
