There is a lot of information in this book and it's presented in a way that allows modern people to grasp what is being said. It doesn't read like classic literature or ancient texts, basically. That being said, I wasn't as inspired by this as I thought I would be. Somewhere along the way, I lost the thread and the excitement for finishing the book. I think it tries to do too much. I had to force myself to get through to the end and did some skimming in the last few chapters.

Also, I felt like it could have been more focused. There was a lot that felt like rambling to me and of all of the things I read, what I remember most is his retelling a story about how he caused a woman to have a break down at a retreat for not calling on him to speak. It felt petty and one-sided and I think there is more to that situation than was presented here. I don't know why he would think it was reasonable to include it here and try to immortalize that woman's reaction to his provocation. ( )

Robert Thurman is America's most popular and charismatic Buddhist. His first book, Inner Revolution, is an international bestseller and his lectures sell out to thousands.

Infinite Life demonstrates that our every action has infinite consequences for ourselves and others, here and now and after we are gone. He introduces the Seven Paths to reconstructing body and mind carefully in order to reduce the negative consequences and cultivate the positive. In his powerful, pragmatic style, Thurman delivers life-changing lessons on virtues and emotions through the lens of Buddhist practices and ways of thinking. He invites us to take responsibility for our actions and their consequences while we revel in the knowledge that our lives are truly infinite. Infinite Life is the ultimate guidebook to understanding our place in the universe and realizing how we can personally succeed while helping others.

A profound and gratifying discussion of the six perfections: wisdom, generosity, justice (ethics), patience, creativity (joyous effort), and contemplation. I read it twice in an effort to integrate these important goals. Lengthy quotes from the Garland Sutra add to the magic. ( )