16 A reed by any water or riverbankwill be pulled up before any grass.
17 Kindness is like an orchard of blessings,and an act of charity will last forever.
18 Life will be sweet for the self-reliantand the hardworking,but better than bothis the person who finds a treasure.
19 Children and building a cityestablish one’s name,but better than bothis a wife who is considered blameless.
20 Wine and music make the heart glad,but better than bothis the love of wisdom.
21 A flute and a harp make sweet melodies,but better than both is a pleasant voice.
22 The eye will desire grace and beauty,but better than bothare the first shoots of a crop.