Sirach 33:21
King James VersionSource notes
“For better it is that thy children should seek to thee, than that thou shouldest stand to their courtesy.”
Context
18Hear me, O ye great men of the people, and hearken with your ears, ye rulers of the congregation.
19Give not thy son and wife, thy brother and friend, power over thee while thou livest, and give not thy goods to another: lest it repent thee, and thou intreat for the same again.
20As long as thou livest and hast breath in thee, give not thyself over to any.
21For better it is that thy children should seek to thee, than that thou shouldest stand to their courtesy.
22In all thy works keep to thyself the preeminence; leave not a stain in thine honour.
23At the time when thou shalt end thy days, and finish thy life, distribute thine inheritance.
24Fodder, a wand, and burdens, are for the ass; and bread, correction, and work, for a servant.