Editors' note: We often deceive ourselves and then unconsciously justify our actions so we can live with something we have done, pretending it is not wrong. If we are trying to follow the Work, justification is unwarranted. Self-deception is insincerity. Deceit involves pushing down one’s conscience. People with strong manifestations of selfishness and self-love can be led to lie and cheat to satisfy their cravings.

To live in harmony with one another there must be laws and one of these is to tell the truth. In some circumstances, saying nothing may be an option, but in matters of principle the truth must always be told.