Proverbs 31:10-31

An excellent woman, who can find? For her worth is far above jewels. She looks for wool and flax, and works with her hands in delight. She extends her hand to the poor; and she stretches other hands to the needy. She makes coverings for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple. She makes linen garments and sells them...Strength and dignity are her clothing and she smiles at the future. She opens her mouth in wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue. She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children rise up and bless her; her husband also, and he praises her, saying "many daughters have done nobly, but you excel them all." Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised. Give her the product of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates.

--From (the Bible and) an old Artful Illusions pattern catalog. I have this clipping on the bulletin board above my sewing machine.