A questioner asks Acharya Prashant why people take you for a fool when you speak politely and lovingly, especially in situations like a government office where they are supposed to do their duty anyway but expect flattery. Acharya Prashant responds by first analyzing the situation described. If you flatter someone and get your work done, it's a give-and-take. The questioner counters that it was the official's duty, so why should they expect special treatment? Acharya Prashant then reframes the issue, asking why people don't do their duty and why they consider politeness as foolishness. He points out that if you are aware that someone is trying to fool you but you are not actually being fooled, then the other person is the real fool. You are, in fact, fooling them. He gives an example: if someone thinks you are asleep and tries to steal from you, they are the ones being fooled. Their punishment is not just getting caught later; the punishment is inherent in the act itself. They have to wait for you to sleep, act secretly, and carry a mental burden, which is a punishment in itself. He explains that feeling bad about a trickster's actions stems from envy. It means you feel they are getting away with something you desire. Instead, one should have compassion for such people because they are selling their integrity for a very small price, which is a great loss for them. He contrasts a society based on law with one based on Dharma (righteousness). A society based on law, even a strict one, can only maintain superficial order. In contrast, a society based on Dharma needs fewer laws because each individual acts as their own guard, understanding that their actions are their own immediate punishment. The speaker advises against adopting a specific, practiced tone or mannerism. The only true tone is one that carries truth and spontaneity. He clarifies that being as you are doesn't mean remaining in your conditioned state, but being pure, enlightened, and free. Finally, Acharya Prashant states that if you become deceitful to counter the world's deceit, it is a victory for the world's deceit over you. The world has succeeded in making another person like itself. The real victory, and the fitting response to the world's deceit, is to remain guileless and honest even when surrounded by it. Don't be afraid of being considered a fool by others. Your integrity is worth billions, while their perception is worthless. Do not trade your invaluable innocence for the sake of appearing clever or successful in the eyes of others.