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.
21 If you draw a sword on a friend,don’t despair,because there can be a way back.
22 If you speak harshly to a friend,don’t be concerned,because there can be reconciliation.But in the case of reproach, arrogance,the revealing of a secret,or a treacherous blow,any friend will flee.