A gentle word makes many friends, an agreeable tongue calls forth gracious replies. Let your friends be many; but your counsellors, one in a thousand. If you would gain a friend, begin by testing him and do not put your confidence in him too quickly. Distance yourself from your enemies and be careful about your friends. The faithful friend is a secure refuge; whoever has found one has found a treasure. A faithful friend is beyond all price; hold him as priceless. My dear, consider much. Whoever fears the Lord will make true friends for, as a man is, such will his friends be. Do not abandon an old friend, for a new one has not the same value. New wine, new friend; let them mature, then you will enjoy them with pleasure. As far as you can, be sociable and take counsel with the learned. Let all your discourses be about the Law of the Most High. Let just men be your companions at table; take pride in your fear of the Lord. Do not interfere in what is not your business. Do not reply before you have listened; do not interrupt the one who is speaking. Do not carry too heavy a load; do not make friends with someone stronger and richer than you. Why put the earthen pot near the iron one? One will bang the other and break it. Take heed to my words, my dear.
Now I want you to meditate on what I am about to say. In the fullness of my Wisdom, I the Lord, have made each one unique and diversified his conditions. Some I make holy, keeping them near to myself. As clay in the potter’s hand to be molded as he pleases, so are all in my hands to be dealt with as I see fit. Think about it! Put your trust in me and let your confidence be in me. You will be like a tree planted by the water, sending out its roots towards the stream. You shall have no fear when the heat comes, your leaves will stay evergreen; the year of drought will be no problem and you can always bear fruit.
Above all, let Wisdom be your companion for life, a wise counselor, encouraging you in times of worry and distress. If you love righteousness, every virtue is the fruit of her labour, for she teaches temperance, prudence, justice, fortitude- all that is most valuable in life. She displays her strength from one end of the earth to the other, ordering all things rightly. She will protect you from enemies and save you from perilous traps. 17.05.24