Sirach 22:16-20 Common English Bible (CEB)

16. A wooden beam fastened into a buildingwon’t be loosened by an earthquake.So a heart firmly seton thoughtful counselwon’t be afraid at any time.

17. A heart fixed on thoughtful understandingis like an engraved ornamenton a smooth wall.

18. A protective barrier set on a high placewill never endure against the wind.So a timid heart backed upby a fool’s planwill never endure against any fear.

19. Whoever pricks an eyewill make tears flow,and whoever pricks a heartreveals its feelings.

20. Whoever throws a stone at birdsscares them off,and whoever insults a friendbreaks up a friendship.

Sirach 22