The human mentality in general is conditioned to the material world and therefore its thoughts and efforts usually remain focused on the material world. This pursuit is encouraged by the fact that the gains and results in the material world are quite self evident i.e. they can be seen or perceived physically.

For example, we can touch and see our body, we can see material wealth, and we can experience pleasure. Fame earned through material gains appeases our ego, thus most people only think and act within the sphere of the material world.

On the other hand, the field of consciousness can be experienced only when one dwells deeper into it, becomes introspective and seeks to understand it thoroughly.

Who is willing to put in the hard efforts? Who would like to adopt a deeper spiritual outlook which is required for such pursuit? An ordinary mind is content with ordinary things. For example, a balloon, a chocolate, or a biscuit will make innocent children feel happy. They love to make sand-castles and pretend gardens because they can instantly see the results of their efforts.

Naive minds cannot think beyond what it can see and requires instant results is everything. It takes some serious farsighted thinking to sense the consequences of having such a mentality. Unfortunately, it deprives people of a valuable opportunity to develop divine vision.

The faculties of imagination, thinking, talent, etc. would all remain preoccupied in procuring and enjoying material pleasures. This would leave almost no time or opportunity for any meaningful efforts towards knowing the authority, power and importance of consciousness i.e. the spiritual realm.

 - Translated works of Pt. Shriram Sharma Acharya

Original Source:  The complete works of Pt. Shriram Sharma Acharya (Jeevan Devta Ki Sadhna Aradhana) Vol 2 - Page 1.11

Courtesy: Gayatri Pariwar of Massachusetts (www.Gayatri.info) & rishichintan.org