Joel Goldsmith and I

I have read Joel's books and have admired him and his spirituality. Walter's book brings out who he is on his path. The influence Joel had on him and gives another glimpse of the human side of Joel.

Walter's recollection of being Joel's student in "Joel Goldsmith and I" gave me hope as well as joy. I received the book in the mail on Friday and could not put it down until I finished it the next day. I am new to Walter's books and was just thrilled to read such a joyful and candid book about his relationship with Joel. I have studied the IW teachings for over 20 years and live its teachings through my heart. I have always wondered a bit about the man behind the teachings, and Walter gave us a glimpse of the man. This is a book about a teacher and a student - their triumphs and struggles. How blessed Walter is to have been lead to Joel -how blessed are we to experience it through his voice. It really touched my heart at a time when I needed it most, and it is a book I will read again and again.

The saying that "when the student is ready, the teacher will appear" becomes a lived reality for Walter Starcke when he meets mystic and Infinite Way teacher Joel S. Goldsmith, through a series of "coincidental" events. The two are drawn together irresistibly, as teacher and student, and an eighteen-year long relationship ensues, in which Walter goes through a roller coaster of experiences. It is through these experiences that he develops spiritually. But the process involves periods of anguish and despair. Goldsmith, as mentor to Walter in his spiritual development, at times seems rejecting and even hateful. But ultimately it's clear that the relationship is exactly what it needs to be in order to serve the development of consciousness in Walter. Another interesting highlight of this book is the fascinating story of Walter's experiences as a Broadway producer. This is a great read.

I read this book through from cover to cover in just a few days. It is a true testiment of the trials and tribulations of the human scene by one who embraces the mystical life. The reader feels Starcke's triumphs and feels his disappointments in his association with the 'infinite way'. The struggles to understand the powerful principles taught by his friend and mentor, Joel, do not go unfulfilled. As a graduate of Joel Goldsmith books, I appreciated the candor and the numerous photographs. But I especially appreciated his Conclusions (Chapter 11) at the end of the book. I, too, have come to the realization of Oneness of all things. The coin may have two sides, but it's still one coin. The see-saw may have opposite ends, but it's still one see-saw. You can't have one without the other, so the 'double thread' Starcke speaks of (visible manifestation AND invisible infinite) are, indeed, one and the same. To the tens of thousands of Infinite Way(tm) students around the globe, this book will be a blessing. Joel, as did Jesus, wanted his students to 'go and do likewise' (and greater things than these thou shalt do). This book may help. Gail Gupton, author, The 31-Day Diet of Spiritual Enlightenment and Seekers of Truth

I bought this book with a little bit of initial resistance as I didn't agree with some of the premises of Walter's earlier books. However, I was in for a huge surprise! What a delightful, abundance-filled, absolutely fascinating read! This will remain one of my favourites and I shall read it many times over. Written from a pure, obviously still very young(at over 80!) heart and mind, an exceptionally full and rich life is being presented in a humble and entertaining manner. Walter's account of his life is honest to the core and also refreshingly intimate, there's beauty and thoughtfulness,laughter and tears. As a student of our great mystic Joel Goldsmith myself, I am grateful for this wonderful testimonial of a Life lived with the fervent desire to know God and how this intention also re-arranges and then reflects Walter's life on the outside. I consider this the masterpiece of Walter's books and am so glad I changed my mind and did get it! I still don't agree totally with his conclusions yet that takes absolutely nothing away from the joy this book gives one. Many thanks for a classic!