Silence, it is said, is better than speech; if speak you must, then it is better to say the truth; if truth is to be said, it is better to say what is agreeable; and if what is agreeable is to be said, then it is better to say what is consistent with morality. A man becometh exactly like him with whom he liveth, or like him whom he regardeth, or like that which he wisheth to be.

In plain words: Silence is better than speaking. If you must speak, say what is true. Better still is truth that is kind, and best is kind truth that is also right. A person becomes like the people they live with, look up to, or wish to be.