"... provides a thorough and intelligent overview of alternative spirituality ... articulate, encouraging guidelines for readers attempting the same transformation..."--Kirkus Reviews (from the first edition) What would you do if overwhelming mystical experiences, both blissful and bewildering, abruptly appeared? What if culture, religion, or science could not explain them, and family and friends were unable or unwilling to understand? This happened to Craig Spielman right in the middle of his contemporary American life and successful professional career. Sudden, profound inner shifts led to years of inquiry to explain and assimilate them. A World Within begins with the story of Spielman's extraordinary struggle to live with a transformed inner world amid a continuing, conventional external existence. With insights from his journey, he provides an invaluable guide to spiritual discovery for those who wish to directly explore their divine potential comfortably for themselves. Spielman shows others how to: invite direct spiritual experience, apply practical ways to abandon fear, adopt a strategy for spiritual growth, and integrate spiritual discovery into everyday life. Increasingly, more people long to reconnect to the sacred, and feel a call to look inward for their essential identity. Purposeful exploration of one's true self can launch a great adventure that holds the promise of continually unfolding illumination, fulfillment, and growth. This compelling, down-to-earth guidebook offers support and direction so that anyone can navigate the terrain of spiritual awakening in modern times. Empowering yourself to discover who you truly are is your highest pursuit in life.--From the Preface