Let us assume that the correct frame of mind is the consciousness of immortality, or if you like, the perfectly relaxed consciousness. What would the result be?

The first result would be that it would be impossible for one person to have this consciousness, without others wanting it, and obtaining it too. If one person achieved it, it would be impossible for him to keep it to himself. Others would be envious, and realise that if he could obtain it, so could they. Moreover it would be easier for them. Whether you are Magellan sailing round the world, or Hillary climbing Everest, it is always harder to do something the first time. The real difficulty is not the physical difficulty; the real difficulty is in the mind; for instance, to have sufficient confidence to go on when anyone with whom you discuss the problem tells you that you are a fool. It is difficult to believe that they are wrong, and you are right. Even the prophet Jeremiah occasionally complains that he has to go on uttering his awful prophesies, when he would so much rather have prophesied more cheerfully. But if you do grasp the truth, and have the good fortune to reach your achievement, the very fact of…