Acharya Prashant explains that respect and freedom are inseparable, asserting that true respect can only exist when one is free. He argues that most displays of respect toward deities, elders, or social institutions are hollow because they stem from compulsion and fear rather than deep conviction or volition. Without freedom, one cannot truly see or know the worth of something, and therefore cannot genuinely respect it. He challenges the ego's notion that one is not free to disrespect, stating that the possibility of respect only exists if there is also the freedom to disrespect. Furthermore, he discusses the delicate nature of hurting another person's ego. While one should not be reckless or indiscreet in attacking the ego—as this often causes the other person to fortify and strengthen their ego—it does not mean the ego should be preserved. He suggests hurting the ego with wisdom and care, citing Kabir Saheb as an example of a saint who pointed out flaws and pinched the ego with such sweetness and directness that people sought him out despite the hurt.
