APPROACH

Magazine Overview

Title: APPROACH
Issue: Vol. 1, No. 12
Date: March, 1959
Publisher: Sagittarius Publishers, Pretoria, South Africa
Editor: Edgar Sievers

This issue of APPROACH, a monthly review focused on 'Man in Life and Space', presents a blend of spiritual philosophy, UFOlogy, and calls for peace and brotherhood. The cover article, "The Choice Every Day," sets a tone of introspection and moral development, while other sections delve into recent UFO news and discussions on the nature of contact.

The Choice Every Day

The editorial, "The Choice Every Day," reflects on the past year's survey of perspectives on "Man in Life." It emphasizes the magazine's unorganized, undogmatic program of Peace and Brotherhood for all Mankind. The author argues that in an age of unrest, virtues like peace and brotherhood are direly needed. The piece highlights that while the fate of Man could be sealed if negative forces dominated, millions are striving towards a balance of values, contributing to a "Common and Moral Good." The article stresses that individual action is crucial for national salvation and the betterment of mankind. It poses the question of personal contribution, suggesting that one should "make the best out of yourself" not in terms of social status but in health, simplicity, naturalness, moral character, and mental agility. The core message is about choosing between a self-gratifying, easy-way-out part of oneself and a selfless part that strives for improvement and acts for the greater good, asking "Where can I do better now than I did times before?"

World-wide Contact Day

This section reports on increasing UFO activity and the growing impression that "space people" are preparing humanity for their presence. It mentions an airliner accompanied by three shining discs on a flight to Detroit and a hovering object over London Airport that perplexed officials. The "Flying Saucer Review" has launched an appeal for a "first International Contact Day" on Whitsuntide weekend (May 16-18). The goal is not just to observe UFOs but to encourage people to attune themselves to the idea of "ACCEPTANCE OF THE VISITORS FROM SPACE," viewing it as the release of a new spiritual wave.

Report from New Zealand

Henk Hinfelaar, the New Zealand liaison man, provides a preliminary report on George Adamski's tour, describing it as "most outstanding." Lectures were packed, with audiences of up to 2200. In Auckland and Wellington, the main town halls were overflowing, with hundreds turned away. The public interest was described as "terrific." Hinfelaar expresses gratitude for Adamski's "great joy and enlightenment" and highlights his sense of humor and generosity, encouraging others to meet him.

Night Session Dialogue: Psychicism in UFology

This section addresses reader concerns and doubts about the magazine's stance on psychicism in relation to UFOs. The authors state they will patiently address these doubts and anxieties, remaining firm in their position based on study and experience. They clarify that "psychicism" refers to adherence to and indulgence in unwarranted psychic theories and practices. While acknowledging that technical aspects of UFOlogy will also be covered, they prioritize the current discussion on psychicism, deeming it important for everyone. The magazine warns that psychic practices are "fraught with illusion, deception & danger." It argues that learning from experience is possible but often at a disadvantage, especially when skipping intermediate steps. The article posits that until we understand the human mind better, we remain under the "veil of Maya" (illusion). The "psychic invasion" is described as "fog beclouding the issue," where illusion and ignorance lead to a loss of substance. An analogy is given of a misinterpreted salary contract. The author expresses concern that UFOlogy, which should be about cosmic relationships, is being interpreted through "piffle coming from psychic sources," leading to "innocent inquirers" being exploited. The need to guard against a loss of spiritual knowledge and to shy away from erroneous approaches is stressed. The article rejects the idea that one must develop occult or super-psychological faculties for salvation or for the "new" Age, stating these are "unessential" and that true advancement is marked by greater compassion, understanding, and mental control, not by psychic abilities.

Birthday in the Air

This short piece wishes George Adamski a happy 68th birthday on April 17th, noting he might be celebrating "up in the air on his way to England." Friends in Africa send good wishes for health and a "rich harvest" for the seeds he is sowing.

Space Ship Field News

This section details recent UFO sightings. It begins with sightings in the OFS Gold Fields area where an object was described as "half-a-crown in size moving from south to north very high up, leaving a trail like a cloud." Similar conditions were favorable for vapour and ionic trails. The next day, an object appeared over Johannesburg, reported by two independent sources. Other reports include sightings of bluish lights with trails over Northern Mozambique and Krugersdorp. A "huge 'ball of light'" was reported to have settled near a car in the Free State in November 1958, with three occupants observed inside bending and gesticulating. The author expresses conviction that "strangers from space" were present. The section also touches upon the idea that biblical figures like Enoch, Mose, Isaiah, Ezekiel, and Paul understood UFO phenomena, but that their accounts were interpreted by lesser men. It questions the validity of modern psychic contacts, suggesting they might be products of imagination or dreams, and contrasts them with the potential for genuine contact.

The UFO News Stand

This section provides brief updates on UFO-related publications and activities. It mentions a French translation of George Adamski's "Inside the Space Ships," Truman's upcoming book "Facing Reality," and a booklet titled "The Voice of Planet Clarion." It also notes a German claimant, H. Klotzbach, who reported being taken up in a spaceship. Gray Barker is branching into publishing with Howard Menger's "From Outer Space to You." A report from the Newark "Star Ledger" states that 500 radar operators of the Civilian Aeronautics Administration claimed to have tracked UFOs.

Subscriptions and Pamphlets

This is a call to renew subscriptions and a thank you to donors. It highlights supplements like "GA's World Tour" and "Man in Life & Space," available for purchase. It also mentions the "AFRICA REGION LIAISON GROUP" and its new Centre Organiser, Mrs. Kitty MacDonnell, and details plans for a fund-raising drive involving a jumble sale.

Book Review: Flying Saucers. Chart No. 1

This review discusses Fred Keziah's "Flying Saucers. Chart No. 1" (2nd edition) from the Visual Metaphysics series. The reviewer notes that UFO research has grown significantly, making such charts helpful for handling, reference, and research. Keziah's wall chart, measuring 22" x 34", provides a summary of UFO data including sizes, speeds, colors, origins, altitudes, important sightings, chronology, literature, and periodicals. It also includes Bible references and sketches of UFO shapes. While acknowledging some superfluous items and minor errors, the reviewer considers the chart a valuable asset for saucer enthusiasts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of APPROACH are the spiritual and moral development of humanity, the exploration of UFO phenomena, and the potential for contact with extraterrestrial beings. The magazine promotes a philosophy of peace, brotherhood, and self-improvement, emphasizing inner virtues over external achievements or psychic abilities. The editorial stance is cautious yet open regarding UFOs, advocating for a discerning approach that prioritizes genuine understanding and moral growth over sensationalism or potentially misleading psychic claims. There is a clear distinction made between true spiritual advancement and the pursuit of psychic powers, with the former being championed as the path to a "better life" and a "new Age."