Wealth of wealths is listening's wealth
It is the best of wealths on earth.
Some food for the stomach is brought
When the ear gets no food for thought.
Whose ears get lots of wisdom-food
Equal gods on oblations fed.
Though not learned, hear and heed
That serves a staff and stay in need.
Virtuous men's wisdom is found
A strong staff on slippery ground.
Lend ear to good words however few
That much will highly exalt you.
Who listen well and learn sharply
Not even by slip speak foolishly.
That ear though hearing is dulled
Which is not by wisdom drilled.
A modest mouth is hard for those
Who care little to counsels wise.
Who taste by mouth and not by ear
What if they fare ill or well here?
LISTENING
