²⁰ My child, pay attention to what I say.
    Listen carefully to my words.

³ “Come to me with your ears wide open.
    Listen, and you will find life.
I will make an everlasting covenant with you.
    I will give you all the unfailing love I promised to David.

²⁰ My son, obey your father’s commands,
    and don’t neglect your mother’s instruction.
²¹ Keep their words always in your heart.
    Tie them around your neck.

¹ O my people, listen to my instructions.
    Open your ears to what I am saying,

¹² Teach us to realize the brevity of life,
    so that we may grow in wisdom.