One of the parables in this teaching, 24:26, emphasizes the importance of honesty in relationships. It highlights that true friendship and love are built on truthful communication, even when it involves rebuke. Flattery and constant praise are seen as detrimental. This is rooted in societal egotism rather than genuine care. A true friend is someone who isn't afraid to speak hard truths for the benefit of the other person, akin to the correction and discipline a loving parent provides. However, however there is a delicate balance between truth-telling and nagging, emphasizing the need to understand the deeper issues behind someone's behavior rather than merely addressing surface-level symptoms.