A sense of decency ( SIRACH 41:14-23)

My children, do as I teach you and live at peace. Wisdom that is not expressed is like a treasure that has been hidden- both are useless. A person who covers up his foolishness is better than one who keeps wisdom to himself.

My children, listen and I will teach you the circumstances when it is proper to be ashamed. Someone it is entirely of place.

Before your parents, be ashamed of immoral behavior. Before a ruler or an important person, be ashamed of a lie. Before a judge, be ashamed of criminal behavior. Before a public assembly, be ashamed of breaking the law. Before a friend or partner, be ashamed o dishonesty. Before your neighbors be ashamed of theft. Be ashamed of breaking a promise, o leaning on the dinner table with your elbows, of stinginess when you are asked for something, o not returning a greeting, of staring at a greeting, of staring at a prostitute, of turning down a relative’s request, of depriving someone of what is rightly his, of staring at another man’s wife, of playing around with his slave woman (keep away from her bed!), of insulting your friends, of following up gifts with criticism, of betraying secrets. These are times when it is proper for you to be ashamed, and people will respect you for it.

A sense of pride ( SIRACH 42)

On the other hand, it is possible to sin by giving in to other people too much. Here are some things you should be ashamed of: the Law of the Most and his covenant, judging even godless people fairly, sharing expenses with a business partner or a traveling companion, sharing an inheritance, using accurate weights of measure, making a profit, whether great or small, bargaining with a merchant, disciplining your children often, beating a disloyal slave until the blood flows.

It is wise to lock things up I you cannot trust your wife or if too many people are around. Keep an accurate record of any deposits you make or of anything you or receive. Don’t hesitate to correct someone who is acting foolishly or an old man who goes around with prostitutes. All of this is worthwhile advice, and if you follow it everyone will approve o your behavior.