An Infinity of Gods: Conversations with an Unconventional Mystic, The Teachings of Shelly Trimmer

by Ray Grasse

'An Infinity of Gods' is a fascinating look at a little-known mystic and spiritual teacher, Shelly Trimmer (1917-1996), a disciple of Paramahansa Yogananda (Autobiography of a Yogi). Based primarily on transcripts of conversations between Shelly and Ray Grasse during the late 1970s and early 1980s, Grasse's book offers a glimpse into the wide-ranging thoughts and insights of this unusual teacher. Among the topics covered are meditation, magic, karma, future science, astrology, psychic phenomena, sex, relationships, enlightenment and God. Written in clear and easy-to-understand language, this compelling selection offers a thought-provoking look into the life and mind of a true American original."Rule number one in the spiritual the best masters are the ones you never hear of and can hardly find. Ray Grasse's absorbing portrait of Shelly Trimmer proves yet again that this is true."—Richard Smoley, author of 'How God Became What Scholars Are Really Saying about God and the Bible.'

250 pages, Paperback

Published September 5, 2017

Reviews

[Doreen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I came to read this book via two routes. First, having followed the work of the author, Ray Grasse, since at least the early 2000’s when I heard him lecture at the Theosophical Society, I was bound to be interested as a serious student of astrology because of his fresh, clear-eyed and thoughtful take on astrological topics. Then, when I learned he was going to publish this book about Shelly Trimmer, I was intrigued because Trimmer had been a disciple of Paramahansa Yogananda whose teachings I have studied and followed for many years. (I am not, however, a Kriya Yoga initiate.) Thus, while I am not a novice in most of topics covered by this book, my level of knowledge does vary considerably among them, and I found the entire book and all its topics comfortably accessible.

Via Grasse’s hand, Shelly Trimmer’s voice is clear, direct, uncomplicated, profound yet never convoluted. A novice can take away what he can and be informed by it; yet there is sufficient depth for a more advanced reader because Trimmer somehow manages to convey extraordinary profundity with great simplicity. Many times I have read a section that while entirely clear and understandable nevertheless prompted me to set the book aside to digest what I’d read, or, even to completely reconsider what I’d previously thought about it. For example, Trimmer puts a great deal of emphasis upon non-interference in the lives of others. Shelly pushes deep on the idea that unselfish love gives the maximum amount of freedom, an idea given much lip service but often little practice. I have rarely encountered it expressed as pointedly and potently as Shelly. In this as in everything else he teaches here, his voice comes through as his own, unsullied by cultural bias.

His advice to restless meditators is rare and refreshing. His take on ambition, worldly success, and achievement deeply reassuring. Explanations on Kriya Yoga and the more esoteric topics accessible and lucid.

Grasse’s presence as the narrator is nuanced and uncanny. He’s present as he asks Trimmer questions, student to teacher, he comments and clarifies occasionally, and overall gives context and back story to his relationship with Trimmer. Yet, at no time, does his presence become a presence of its own. Somehow, I felt like I was the student receiving the teaching, being addressed and even uplifted by the presence of the master.

I wish I could adequately describe how fascinating, enchanting, refreshing, mind blowing, and illuminating this book is, but I feel that words have failed me. If any of these topics (from the back cover blurb) interest you among “meditation, magic, future science, astrology, psychic phenomena, sex, relationships, enlightenment, and God,” and many more, then by all means, read this book. And what’s more, you’ll likely find yourself captivated by something you’ve not yet dreamed of.

Enjoy.

[Marcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am an initiate in the Kriya Yoga lineage and Shelly Trimmer is my paramguru (my guru's guru). He was a "hidden mystic", no centers or books or publications. I only had the opportunity to study with Shelly twice and it was amazing and mind expanding. For me, Ray Grasse's book has all the flavor and upliftment of being in the presence of Shelly. The book illustrates Shelly's wisdom, his sense of humor and his responses that sometimes went deep into uncharted territory. Very grateful to Ray Grasse for keeping his notes all those years and sharing them with us in this readable and enjoyable form.

[Jared Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish Shelly Trimmer had written down his ideas, but this was probably my favorite read of the year.

[Dmitry Dyatlov · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well there is some heavy stuff here. Read in about one night. Experienced sleep paralysis for the first time in months and then a few hours later someone breathing under my bed... no joke. This is why the Church people tell you to stay away from the Occult I guess. But we know those guys aren't all Saints either. Anyway. It takes a lot for me to write a review these days. This book did it!