Approach - Vol 1 No 06 - 1958 09

Magazine Overview

Title: APPROACH
Issue: Vol. 1, No. 6
Date: September, 1958
Publisher: Sagittarius Publishers
Country: South Africa
Type: A Monthly Review

This issue of APPROACH magazine delves into the concept of 'The Good Sense of Submission,' presenting it not as weakness but as a courageous and necessary law of life. The publication is a non-profit initiative focused on Peace and Brotherhood.

The Good Sense of Submission

The lead article, "The Good Sense of Submission," argues that true submission is not about surrender or cowardice but about a profound understanding of life's laws. It requires courage, patience, and effort. The author suggests that when faced with overwhelming circumstances, the sensible approach is not to fight or despair, but to accept one's lot, detach oneself to gain a higher perspective, and understand the challenge. This detachment is framed as removing oneself as the target of fate's attack, acknowledging it as an initial responsibility. By adjusting and accommodating, fulfilling daily duties, one can gradually dissipate the forces of fate. This submission prepares for later extrication and personal change, ultimately leading to rising above one's circumstances and even transcending death.

The article further elaborates on spiritual evolution, contrasting it with purely mechanistic Western evolutionary theories. It posits that material evolution is an outward projection of inner spiritual evolution, which precedes the material. The concept of 'in-volvement' is introduced, suggesting that creation is a long process, not instantaneous. It dismisses the idea of a 'missing link' in evolution, stating that the unfolding ladder holds as many material forms as there are spiritual stages, including ape and man.

Letters to the Editor

E.B. from East London writes in response to an article on Dr. Lobsang Rampa, suggesting that details of 'taking over bodies' can be found in Rudolf Steiner's 'The Gospel of St Luke.' E.B. expresses a wish for APPROACH to be a larger magazine and thanks the editor for the information provided.

The editor, Edgar Sievers, responds to E.B., acknowledging the difficulty in defining 'authoritative' sources and mentioning that Steiner himself broke from Madame Blavatsky's movement. He expresses gratitude for the good wishes but states that a larger magazine format is not yet feasible, highlighting the need for 50 more subscribers to ensure the publication's future.

S. from Somewhere on the Rand shares her difficulty in obtaining UFO and Space books from the library. She recounts her husband's humorous remark about her 'Inside the Space Ships' book. S. expresses enjoyment of the magazine and mentions reading 'The Third Eye,' noting the author's belief in evolution, which she is exploring. She also describes a clever display method used by the State Library to promote new books.

S. reflects on the 'Saucer Curtain' that can divide people and reassures readers that they are not alone in their interest, urging them not to feel martyred. She emphasizes that each person arrives at their own inner certainty at their own pace.

A Point, a Theme and my Angle

This section addresses the pervasive fear in the contemporary world, particularly the threat of a third world war and the reliance on modern technology, including space travel, as a distraction. It questions whether reaching the moon will solve humanity's problems, suggesting that the creatures who reach it might be 'sick, blood-cancerous.'

The article also discusses the dangers of nuclear bomb testing, citing far-sighted scientists who warned of radiation risks. It notes that Strontium 90, deposited in bones, interferes with blood building and has led to cases of blood cancer. The persistence of this contamination is highlighted, with potential future impacts on babies. The issue of withheld press information regarding high irradiation counts from rain in California is questioned, attributing it to fear.

The author observes the paradox of humans seeking escape through space exploration, suggesting that their ignorance and fear make their endeavors pathetic.

Visit to Venus: Reviewing Dr. Rampa's Account

This article reviews Dr. Lobsang Rampa's report of his visit to Venus, published in previous issues of APPROACH. The reviewer notes a sense of familiarity with Rampa's descriptions, suggesting echoes of deeper knowledge. While external facts are important, the implications for inner growth are considered more significant. The 'cosmic language of thought' is discussed as a medium of exchange on higher worlds, requiring an alert mind and mastership over one's thoughts. Uncontrolled talking, even in trance, can be meaningless. The difficulty for ordinary mortals to master this communicative instrument is acknowledged.

The reviewer asserts that Dr. Rampa's books and articles are accepted based on analysis and correspondence, deeming him an authority. His sincerity and brilliance are noted, but the 'stamp of consistency with subtler points in ancient wisdom' is considered the most essential asset. Rampa's account is seen as providing answers to many questions, encouraging readers to study them and register their own growth.

Key points from Rampa's account are highlighted:
1. Motives for the journey to Venus: To brighten lives with knowledge and to bring influence to bear in service to mankind, reflecting the guidance of higher beings towards lesser evolved ones.
2. Non-killing and diet: The article emphasizes that advancement on higher levels involves non-killing and avoiding animal products, including meat, milk, cheese, and eggs. This is presented as a path to protection against dangers like radioactivity.
3. Purity and beauty: These are linked, with no place for ugliness in advanced humanities. This aligns with universal laws and the concept of 'angels.'

The article also addresses the psychoanalytic interpretation of UFO experiences as 'projections' of desperate people, refuting it by suggesting that humanity's 'common unconscious' remembers its origins in space. It advocates for living clean lives and looking towards cosmic beauty.

It is mentioned that Jesus and Buddha communicated visibly, but alleged space commanders like Ashtar, 'Heavenly Fathers,' etc., do not exist in physical form and are products of trance minds. Genuine messages from 'Brothers' will be face-to-face encounters, not psychic phenomena.

Pretoria Get-together

A brief announcement reminds Pretoria friends of an upcoming get-together on Wednesday, 24th, at 8 o'clock, at the Hotel Boulevard, upstairs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes spiritual and evolutionary themes, advocating for a path of inner development, detachment, and selfless service. The magazine promotes a worldview that integrates ancient wisdom with contemporary concerns, including the dangers of modern technology and the potential for spiritual advancement. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging critical thinking, personal responsibility, and a focus on higher spiritual truths, while cautioning against misinterpretations of psychic phenomena and false prophets. There is a clear alignment with the teachings of figures like Rudolf Steiner and Lobsang Rampa, viewed through the lens of a 'Peace and Brotherhood Programme.'