Ben Sira 27:11-21

11 The talk of the godly man is always wise, but the fool changes like the moon.
12 Among stupid people watch for a chance to leave, but among thoughtful people stay on.
13 The talk of fools is offensive, and their laughter is wantonly sinful.
14 The talk of men given to swearing makes one's hair stand on end, and their quarrels make a man stop his ears.
15 The strife of the proud leads to bloodshed, and their abuse is grievous to hear.
16 Whoever betrays secrets destroys confidence, and he will never find a congenial friend.
17 Love your friend and keep faith with him; but if you betray his secrets, do not run after him.
18 For as a man destroys his enemy, so you have destroyed the friendship of your neighbor.
19 And as you allow a bird to escape from your hand, so you have let your neighbor go, and will not catch him again.
20 Do not go after him, for he is too far off, and has escaped like a gazelle from a snare.
21 For a wound may be bandaged, and there is reconciliation after abuse, but whoever has betrayed secrets is without hope.
Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright 1952 [2nd edition, 1971] by the 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.