12 Limit the time you spendwith unintelligent people,but linger with the thoughtful.
13 The conversation of fools is offensive,as is their laughterover sinful pleasures.
14 Their speech, full of profanity,makes a person’s hair stand on end,and their conflicts make peoplestop up their ears.
15 The conflict of the arrogantends in bloodshed,and their abuse is miserable to hear.
16 Those who reveal secretshave destroyed trust,and they will never find a friendfor themselves.
17 Show affection to friendsand be loyal to them,but if you reveal their secrets,don’t follow after them.
18 Just as people destroy an enemy,so you have destroyed your friendshipwith your neighbors.