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A Series of Lessons in Raja Yoga596
cognizance of only a very small part of the Universal Fact, and that there
may be regions upon regions of Reality and Fact of which he cannot even
dream, so far are they removed from his experience. The unfoldment of a
new sense would open out a new world and might bring to light facts that
would completely revolutionize our entire world of conceptions by reason
of the new information it would give us.
But, nevertheless,from this Mental Consciousness has come the wonderful
work of Intellect, as shown in the achievements of Man up to this time, and
while we must recognize its limitations, we gladly join in singing its praises.
Reason is the tool with which Man is digging into the mine of Facts, bringing
to light new treasures every day. This stage of Mental Consciousness is
bringing to Man knowledge of himself—knowledge of the Universe—that
is well worth the price he pays for it. For Man does pay a price for entrance
into this stage—and he pays an increasing price as he advances in its territory,
for the higher he advances the more keenly he feels and suffers, as well
as enjoys. Capacity for pain is the price Man pays for Attainment, up to a
certain stage. His pain passes from the Physical to the Mental consciousness,
and he becomes aware of problems that he never dreamt existed, and the
lack of an intelligent answer produces mental suffering. And the mental
suffering that comes to him from unsatisfied longings, disappointment, the
pain of others whom he loves, etc., is far worse than any physical suffering.
The animal lives its animal life and is contented, for it knows no better.
If it has enough to eat—a place to sleep—a mate—it is happy. And
some men are likewise. But others find themselves involved in a world
of mental discomfort. New wants arise, and the lack of satisfaction brings
pain. Civilization becomes more and more complex, and brings its new
pains as well as new pleasures. Man attaches himself to “things,” and each
day creates for himself artificial wants, which he must labor to meet. His
Intellect may not lead him upward, but instead may merely enable him to
invent new and subtle means and ways of gratifying his senses to a degree
impossible to the animals. Some men make a religion of the gratification