Why Do Our Thoughts Not Materialize?

If there exists this severe self-attachment in the mind, the things one wishes for may not necessarily come to pass, and the things one wishes to avoid may not necessarily be evaded. What humans do often runs directly counter to what they desire. For instance, people universally wish for longevity, health, and happiness, yet they engage in actions that cause themselves to lack longevity, health, and happiness, such as killing living beings and consuming meat. How could the result possibly be health, longevity, and happiness? People all wish for liberation with ease and freedom, yet they cling stubbornly to the self, refusing to let go. How could one attain liberation with ease and freedom?

People all wish for wealth and success, yet they constantly, whether intentionally or unintentionally, engage in acts of stealing or robbing. How could they achieve wealth and success? People always desire to be respected and esteemed by others, yet they constantly behave arrogantly, looking down upon others and showing them no respect. How could they gain the respect of others? People always crave supreme authority, yet they continually deprive others of their rights. How could they themselves possess authority?