Norman began a search for wisdom and truth around the age of twenty. His search spanned more then 30 years as he investigated philosophy, psychology, self improvement seminars, reading many books, living in an Ashram, trips to India, and commitment on spiritual paths with big time gurus. Much was learned but ultimately it left him unsatisfied.

In the summer of 1999 he had the good fortune to meet his teacher Adyashanti from Los Gatos, California. Adyashanti spoke of having awoken out of the Zen tradition. Norman had been seeking the extraordinary, but instead found what he was looking for in Adyashanti, an ordinary man who demonstrated a great contentment, peace and comfortableness with life. He had a great heart in an unpretentious and approachable package. In one sitting with this wise being, he knew he was in the right place. He then dedicated himself to this teaching. Initial awakening came fairly early on. However he found embodiment of this awakening far more challenging. After more years of inquiry he became aware that suffering had ended. Mind had lost its power to dictate identification with fear, emotional pain, and anger. The mind's interpretations of reality were recognized as something not to be believed. It was in the midst of this new unfolding of awakening into life that he was invited by Adyashanti to share the Dharma with others. In 2004 he moved back to New England where he grew up, and presently lives in Campton, NH surrounded by the White Mountain National Forest.