Book Review for "Stumbling Into Infinity: An Ordinary Man in the Sphere of Enlightenment" by Michael Fischman

For anyone interested in spiritual topics and engaging autobiographies I would strongly recommend the book Stumbling Into Infinity: An Ordinary Man in the Sphere of Enlightenment by Michael Fischman. This book gives a first-person look at what it is like to know and interact with an Enlightened master on a personal level. Michael Fischman is an Art of Living teacher and former President of the United States branch of The Art of Living Foundation. This book is much more than a novel-length advertisement for the Art of Living, however. This is the story of a modern man trying to find his identity and a higher purpose in life. Michael Fischman comes from a middle-class Jewish family from New York, so he did not start out with any close connection to Eastern philosophies or spiritualities in his early life. He came to discover these things as he pursued his hopes of finding fulfillment and happiness.

One of the best aspects of this book in my opinion is how relatable Michael Fischman’s story is. His fear of mortality, anxiety over living up to high expectations, and difficulties in experiencing unrequited love make him someone any modern person can identify with. The author of this book had an interest in meditation, and through the Transcendental Meditation movement eventually came to know and follow Sri Sri Ravi Shankar- the spiritual Guru and founder of The Art of Living. The story is very moving and thought-provoking. It is also inspirational as Michael is accurately described as “an ordinary man” in the title. He is a modern-day American whose journey many people – even those not directly affiliated with the Art of Living – can identify with on many levels.

I admit that because I am affiliated with the Art of Living, I would naturally be drawn to a book like this. But the scope of this story transcends one distinct ideology, religion, or philosophy- just like the Art of Living Foundation itself. Stumbling Into Infinity is a book that can be appreciated by anyone with an interest in spirituality and discovering a deeper meaning to life. I believe that the biggest draw of this book is simply because it is a very human story with a positive message. So if you’re looking for something interesting or different to read, consider Stumbling Into Infinity: An Ordinary Man in the Sphere of Enlightenment. Once you start reading, you won’t want to put it down.

Jai Gurudev! (Hail the Inner Light!)

Mike Babbish