shrewd...?

How important it is to listen and hear what another may be saying. In the words spoken, no matter the tone or occasion, much can be learnt about the person speaking. But, coupled with the ability of listening and hearing one should take note to read the intentions of company shared.
I suppose many prefer to see the best in all situations, giving the benefit of doubt to a niggling feeling....not resorting to be suspicious of nature.
In that case, does one fall easy prey to predators.... Is it foolish or sheer stupidity to be taken for a ride over and over by those dabbling in intrigue and deceitful behaviour?

i happened to mention to a dear acquaintance how shrewd he was, and his response was one of hurtful surprise. He near took it as an insult, and i meant it as a compliment, a characteristic i would be proud of, in this challenging world.
As per the definition of the word 'shrewd'...

astute, sharp-witted, intelligent, savvy, perceptive, observant, wise, far-seeing, far-sighted.....

now....

Why would i not want to be shrewd?

For me, to be shrewd, means a happy medium, where one looks after ones interest and at the same time can make a moment, a situation work for another too....it is not a quality i would compliment a person untruthful, abusive and deceitful.
But then he pointed out.....many a successful questionable character was shrewd enough to abuse the goodness of others for their personal benefit. And thus i had to admit, like anything in life, it all boils down to the character of the person and who they may be...
I assured him....he was shrewd in the best of ways.....and when he left...i had to ask myself....could it be he had a guilty conscience for some reason or other.....?

I suppose we all have the good and bad in us....and sometimes to be shrewd could be to the detriment of another.

RB.