Proverbs 13:3

The one who guards his mouth preserves his life; The one who opens wide his lips comes to ruin.

This proverb is a contrast between wisdom and folly.  All of proverbs is that contrast.  Here, wisdom and folly are represented by the man who can guard his mouth and the one who can't.   We don't typically think of wisdom and folly contrasted in this manner.  We think of more loftier and grander comparisons.  But, no, it is as simple as the ability to control your tongue.  Remember, James tells us that a tongue is like the match that starts a forest on fire.   He goes on to say it is like a rudder of a mighty ship.   Such a big ship and a ruder, sometimes, less than a few feet long and side makes the ship go starboard or port.   So, too, is a tongue for us. It is the bucket bringing out of the well of our heart whatever has been fuming, planted or nurtured.   It moves us down one path or the other.  How we use the tongue can put us in favor with kings -or, it can insult the king and he can ruin our lives.  The tongue is the perfect representation of wisdom and folly.  Folly uses the tongue as a whipping post.  It flings out endless vanity and empty air.   But, it can be a blessing to others.  It can compliment the lowly and comfort the lonely.  It can build up and instruct.  It can softly reprove to correct the stranger.    You don't have to be around long before you know what someone's tongue is connected to.   It is an extension of their foolish or wise heart.  Just listen and you'll know.