Ben Sira 6:25-35

25 Bend your shoulders and carry her, and do not fret under her bonds.
26 Come to her with all your soul, and keep her ways with all your might.
27 Search out and seek, and she will become known to you; and when you get hold of her, do not let her go.
28 For at last you will find the rest she gives, and she will be changed into joy for you.
29 Then her fetters will become for you a strong defense, and her collar a glorious robe.
30 Her yoke is a golden ornament, and her bonds a purple cord.
31 You will wear her like a glorious robe, and put her on like a splendid crown.
32 If you are willing, my child, you can be disciplined, and if you apply yourself you will become clever.
33 If you love to listen you will gain knowledge, and if you pay attention you will become wise.
34 Stand in the company of the elders. Who is wise? Attach yourself to such a one.
35 Be ready to listen to every godly discourse, and let no wise proverbs escape you.

Footnotes 2

New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.