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Stumbling Into Infinity: An Ordinary Man in the Sphere of Enlightenment
Stumbling Into Infinity is the intimate and sometimes startling account of Michael Fischman’s spiritual journey and the encounter that changed his life forever. His story opens on a flight to India, as he reflects on the unusual chain of events that led him from a challenging childhood to his unexpected role as friend and helper to a renowned humanitarian and spiritual leader. Michael Fischman’s fascinating and personal memoir takes us into the compassionate and mysterious world of an enlightened seer. It is a compelling narrative that blends remarkable experiences with an inner struggle and search for meaning.
296 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2009
70 people are currently reading
440 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
March 4, 2012
This was a book that I was really looking forward to reading and I must say that I enjoyed it from the start, although after a few chapters I was really finding it hard to put down and just wanted to read more and more. The book is a really open and honest account of the authors life and his spiritual journey with the close bond he has enjoyed with his spiritual master Guruji Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.
Son of a middle class Jewish family, struggling with a strong fear of death, losing his mother, found it hard to love or be loved until fully understanding about reincarnation. Knowing that something in his life was missing he needed to discover his true inner self and find his true purpose in life for his personal growth. He had seemed to have lost his way in life.
With an unexpected meeting with an old friend who was now a Transcendental Meditation Teacher, he saw first hand the transformation that had taken place. This prompted him to take his first step on the spiritual path and he began attending meditation courses, talks by meditation teachers and travelling, even working for a few months at Maharishi International University. Still hungry to learn more it was recommended to him, by another chance meeting with a friend, to attend the Art of Living Course with her new teacher Pundit Ravi Shankar and the teaching of Sudarsshan Kriya life force energy technique. He describes the affects of first meeting him as 'the room became calm, and for no apparent reason I began to feel lighter and more joyful'.
This started his amazing spiritual transformation and a complete change of life for the author, learning the techniques, helping the organisation by organising tours and promotion, becoming a teacher himself and travelling the world bringing the Art of Living courses to corporate businesses and becoming the current president of the US Art of Living Foundation. Under the spiritual, almost fatherly, care and guidance of his non judgemental spiritual master he began to learn how to deal with his inner thoughts, emotions, cravings, stresses and anxieties, although at times found himself fighting against himself. He describes extremely clearly the overall powerful feelings when being in attendance of his master that you could almost feel the peace and calmness yourself.
The book is full of Ravi's unbelievable insight, extraordinary teachings, intimate gatherings and stories, as well as the clever teachings and experiences between a master and his pupil. I loved reading Ravi's teachings and stories, some of which will have you laughing, I certainly learnt important life lessons from his messages. In fact I felt that I could have read so many more, that I just didn't want the book to end. A book that you will want to read again and again. Highly recommend reading, an amazing spiritual journey with a huge impact to the reader.
Son of a middle class Jewish family, struggling with a strong fear of death, losing his mother, found it hard to love or be loved until fully understanding about reincarnation. Knowing that something in his life was missing he needed to discover his true inner self and find his true purpose in life for his personal growth. He had seemed to have lost his way in life.
With an unexpected meeting with an old friend who was now a Transcendental Meditation Teacher, he saw first hand the transformation that had taken place. This prompted him to take his first step on the spiritual path and he began attending meditation courses, talks by meditation teachers and travelling, even working for a few months at Maharishi International University. Still hungry to learn more it was recommended to him, by another chance meeting with a friend, to attend the Art of Living Course with her new teacher Pundit Ravi Shankar and the teaching of Sudarsshan Kriya life force energy technique. He describes the affects of first meeting him as 'the room became calm, and for no apparent reason I began to feel lighter and more joyful'.
This started his amazing spiritual transformation and a complete change of life for the author, learning the techniques, helping the organisation by organising tours and promotion, becoming a teacher himself and travelling the world bringing the Art of Living courses to corporate businesses and becoming the current president of the US Art of Living Foundation. Under the spiritual, almost fatherly, care and guidance of his non judgemental spiritual master he began to learn how to deal with his inner thoughts, emotions, cravings, stresses and anxieties, although at times found himself fighting against himself. He describes extremely clearly the overall powerful feelings when being in attendance of his master that you could almost feel the peace and calmness yourself.
The book is full of Ravi's unbelievable insight, extraordinary teachings, intimate gatherings and stories, as well as the clever teachings and experiences between a master and his pupil. I loved reading Ravi's teachings and stories, some of which will have you laughing, I certainly learnt important life lessons from his messages. In fact I felt that I could have read so many more, that I just didn't want the book to end. A book that you will want to read again and again. Highly recommend reading, an amazing spiritual journey with a huge impact to the reader.
October 11, 2014
I laughed with it, i cried with it and had goosebumps on almost every experience shared ! I have read a good number of books but never experienced it in the manner i experienced this book. i am at loss of words to express it. Completed the book feeling high and grateful :)
March 2, 2012
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar once said, "Wake up and see, life is a game. ...[T]here were good events, bad events, you had profit, you had loss." Author and spiritual leader Michael Fischman knows all to well about the good, the bad, the profits and the losses that life deals us. He chronicles his own game of life and struggle/journey to in his memoir Stumbling Into Infinity: An Ordinary Man in the Sphere of Enlightenment. The son of a Polish deli owner and World War II survivor, Fischman gives readers an intimate and raw view into the events that molded him into the man he is today.
Fischman talks about surviving an abusive childhood with a father who most likely suffered from an undiagnosed post-traumatic disorder. He opens up about how his inability to properly cope with death and the loss of loved ones causes him to question God, his life's purpose and becomes the start of a downward spiral. Eager to "know truth, which I believed would lead me to God," he begins to dabble in the world of Transcendental Meditation. It was his exploration of Transcendental Meditation that would eventually introduce him to his spiritual guru, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and ultimately help him discover his life's meaning and inner self. The passion and awe in which he describes his the transformation of their relationship from teacher and student to friends will leave readers craving the same closeness.
Stumbling Into Infinity is a great read that you will find yourself not wanting to put down. Fischman's story will touch your heart making you want to smile, feel inspired and other times shaking your head in disappointment at some of his bad choices. Overall, you will be reminded that we don't have to play this game of life alone. We all have a Sri Sri Ravi Shankar out there waiting for us to meet and to help us find our way.
Fischman talks about surviving an abusive childhood with a father who most likely suffered from an undiagnosed post-traumatic disorder. He opens up about how his inability to properly cope with death and the loss of loved ones causes him to question God, his life's purpose and becomes the start of a downward spiral. Eager to "know truth, which I believed would lead me to God," he begins to dabble in the world of Transcendental Meditation. It was his exploration of Transcendental Meditation that would eventually introduce him to his spiritual guru, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and ultimately help him discover his life's meaning and inner self. The passion and awe in which he describes his the transformation of their relationship from teacher and student to friends will leave readers craving the same closeness.
Stumbling Into Infinity is a great read that you will find yourself not wanting to put down. Fischman's story will touch your heart making you want to smile, feel inspired and other times shaking your head in disappointment at some of his bad choices. Overall, you will be reminded that we don't have to play this game of life alone. We all have a Sri Sri Ravi Shankar out there waiting for us to meet and to help us find our way.
January 11, 2014
I found it fascinating to read of a journey towards enlightenment in the form of a memoir. Everything described seemed more real and less "mystical" and out of reach. Upon reading this book, I looked up the form of meditation that made the art of living foundation so famous and tried it myself. For the first time ever, I was able to grasp meditation and understand its effectiveness. Traditional meditation has never "worked" for me, or rather I never understood how to make it work. With this, I went so deep on the very first try and it was effortless. I subsequently looked up the art of living foundation and it seems a bit cultish and fanaticish for my taste so I don't think I will dig deeper or take any courses, but I am so grateful for this gift of meditation; I would've never known about it had I not read this book. (I was also delighted by Michael's trip to Israel and being called a "hinjew" by the mystical rabbi.) Michael's journey and struggles with letting go of an overbearing ego were quite relatable and endearing. Four stars for some of the more rambling fanaticish parts but a goodread for anyone on the path towards enlightenment looking for a down-to-earth and relatable story.
August 14, 2012
Inspiring book. Like Yogananda in "Autobiography of a Yogi," the author is so innocent and willing to share his shortcomings that you can't help believe the more mystical and extraordinary experiences.
Beautiful, personal, and uplifting. I cried a couple times. A nice mix of personal trials and growth, captivating story, wisdom, humor, and an appreciation of that rare (in the West) relationship of spiritual master and devotee. (Although in this case, the master seems to have had his work cut out for him!)
Highly recommend.
Beautiful, personal, and uplifting. I cried a couple times. A nice mix of personal trials and growth, captivating story, wisdom, humor, and an appreciation of that rare (in the West) relationship of spiritual master and devotee. (Although in this case, the master seems to have had his work cut out for him!)
Highly recommend.
May 6, 2015
I didn't actually finish this, but I read a good portion. It's an interesting story of an American man on a spiritual journey and his finding his path with a guru from India. I usually like stories like this, but it's poorly written and I couldn't find enough similarity in our spiritual journeys to be drawn in to the story. Other people seem to like it, though, so give it a shot, if you're more drawn to Eastern spirituality and can tolerate boring narrative.
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January 25, 2016Spirituality 101 : One day a man was looking for a key on the road. A neighbour offered to help and asked him where he had lost it. The reply was - Somewhere in the house. The neighbour asked, then why are we looking out here. The man replied because the light is better. Looking outside of yourself for any joy is the big illusion.
To realise one's potential, capabilities and limitations, one has to become bigger than the events. The deeper the darkness the nearer the dawn.
To realise one's potential, capabilities and limitations, one has to become bigger than the events. The deeper the darkness the nearer the dawn.
June 1, 2013
The Book is an autobiography that one would not like to read. The title of the book is very much misleading. It should have been travells of Michael Fischman or How I became teacher of Art of Living. There is distiction between praises and sycophancy. What the author has indulged in his autobigraphy is sycophancy of the guru.
March 30, 2014
This book was recommended to me by an Art of Living devotee. Michael hit upon so many points that many of us ponder as we wonder around on our spiritual paths. While there are no answers per say in this book as this is one mans experience, Michael has a way of using his guru's words to make you think about your ego and what it is you are getting put of life.
July 18, 2013
Interesting at times, but the author's writing style was bent more towards implicit persuasion as opposed to open exploration of the spirituality he sought and found, and when I read religious spirituality books, I prefer the open exploration rather than the persuasion writing style.
June 1, 2013
A nice book that provides an insight into how Michael Fishman life has changed from a directionless youth to an enlightened soul by being a friend, devotee of Sri Sri Ravishankar. Michael Fishman is currently leading the U.S Art of living foundation as president. A must read for all AOL followers.
August 14, 2021
Truly grateful
I've been doing Surdharshan Kriya and Sahaj meditation everyday since 1 year. This book describes Guru stories in beautiful manner I feel like I've been there witnessing and experiencing all events. Thank you Michael for writing this book .
I've been doing Surdharshan Kriya and Sahaj meditation everyday since 1 year. This book describes Guru stories in beautiful manner I feel like I've been there witnessing and experiencing all events. Thank you Michael for writing this book .
February 7, 2014
Awsome book..
April 22, 2023
This book takes us through the beautiful spiritual journey of the author that changed his life forever. He was always curious about the deeper meanings of the various prayers, but the rabbis could not satisfy him with their explanation. He had a challenging childhood, which did shake his faith in God.
As the next chapters unfurl, we come across deep knowledge, humor and moments of grace. Unusual events kept happening in his life, making him doubt his confidence. He further even went questioning whether he was doing the right thing or not and yet with all these, he was able to make the impossible possible. He explains how having a spiritual master in one’s life makes it easier to navigate through the journey of life.
He adds an important chapter shedding light on one of the most influential masters, H.H. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. This book will surely inspire you to explore a life of greater fulfillment and unconditional love.
As the next chapters unfurl, we come across deep knowledge, humor and moments of grace. Unusual events kept happening in his life, making him doubt his confidence. He further even went questioning whether he was doing the right thing or not and yet with all these, he was able to make the impossible possible. He explains how having a spiritual master in one’s life makes it easier to navigate through the journey of life.
He adds an important chapter shedding light on one of the most influential masters, H.H. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. This book will surely inspire you to explore a life of greater fulfillment and unconditional love.
August 19, 2023
Stumbling into Infinity is a fascinating and inspiring account of the spiritual journey of Michael Fischman, from an ordinary man to a devoted disciple of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. The book chronicles Mikey’s early life, marked by challenges and setbacks, as well as his gradual awakening to the power of love, compassion and self discovery.
The highlight of the novel is the author’s candidness, honesty and vulnerability that makes it worth the read!
The highlight of the novel is the author’s candidness, honesty and vulnerability that makes it worth the read!
January 16, 2023
Written with grace and poise, this book serves as a gentle introduction to Guruji Sri Sri and the Art of Living. The reader is taken on a beautiful journey as the author recollects his experiences with Guruji so vividly that you feel you were there on every step of the way. Jai Gurudev
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March 9, 2023Grateful for this book: Stumbling into Infinity
This book really spoke to me and impacted me. Michael Fishman if possible I would like to have a conversation with you one day. Thank You!
This book really spoke to me and impacted me. Michael Fishman if possible I would like to have a conversation with you one day. Thank You!
July 15, 2017
This book is a must read . Makes you believe in miracles. A book which gave me a new perspective to life
February 23, 2018
Journey from head to heart.
September 13, 2018
Beautiful journey of faith and trust. A story which depicts the true joy in giving and an unconditional devotion towards the master.
September 13, 2019
Thoroughly enjoyed. Great balance of personal recount and spiritual knowledge. Full of humor and joy.
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February 9, 2020a well-written book. It's a good read on Michael's journey with the art of living.
April 19, 2020
Real and funny. Delightful point of views about our mind and reactions. The story of Michael is inspirational
July 20, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Beautiful honest and very inspiring!!Especially for someone who is just walking on a spiritual path! Thank you for your efforts in bringing this beautiful story🙏
Beautiful honest and very inspiring!!Especially for someone who is just walking on a spiritual path! Thank you for your efforts in bringing this beautiful story🙏
October 25, 2020
An emotional ride it had been. There isn't a chapter that goes without a drop of tear. Beautifully written . Filled with gratitude.
May 13, 2013
It’s a gripping story of an ordinary man’s journey in to the sphere of enlightenment, with his and also my guru, HH Sri Sri Ravishankar. Fischman, who is currently the head of Art of Living foundation in USA, presents a very real and lucid biographical account of his spiritual shopping sprees, ups and downs, finding his Guru and experiencing his grace, doubting him, serving him, and more ups and downs, and finally rising above all doubts – exploring highest of human possibilities and being in unconditional love and bliss. The book is one of my all-time favourites – because it’s not often that one experiences Samadhi while reading!
December 26, 2014
5 star because my Guruji is the protagonist for the story. Awesome storytelling by Michael Fischman. Kept me engaged all thorugh, may be because i am a die-hard devotee of Guruji. But a must-must read for all those who are followers of Guruji & all those who are looking for something extraordinary in their life but aren't able to find it, this book will inspire you to take a step to become what is most fortunate thing in the Universe : A disciple or devotee, that too of Guruji(His Holiness Sri Sri Ravishankarji)
April 3, 2015
Felt like every page from the book was my personal experience narrated by a friend. Michael's journey in to art of living is indeed just not his alone. Its miraculous to understand/ experience that how can one person/guru have a relation as intimate as he has with Michael with everybody who has joined the path.
Thank you Michael for unfolding your experiences. It helped tremendously to develop the firm trust... :D
Thank you Michael for unfolding your experiences. It helped tremendously to develop the firm trust... :D
June 20, 2015
Right from the beginning I felt that this book is specially written for me. Felt very much connected. Very much moved.
The book helped me to understand the grace of my guru SriSri, overcome my inferiorities and motivated to put my desire to serve humanity into action without any doubts in my mind. Definitely a life changing book for me. Great Thanks to author Michael Fischman for coming up with this book.
The book helped me to understand the grace of my guru SriSri, overcome my inferiorities and motivated to put my desire to serve humanity into action without any doubts in my mind. Definitely a life changing book for me. Great Thanks to author Michael Fischman for coming up with this book.
March 20, 2013
An inspiring book that narrates a man's journey with his Guru. It is a story of a man's struggle with his own emotions, attitudes, desires and aspirations - both worldly and spiritual. How the Master guides and leads him through the path.
A must read for all of Guruji's devotees in particular and everyone on the spiritual path in general.
A must read for all of Guruji's devotees in particular and everyone on the spiritual path in general.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews