Approach - Vol 2 No 03 - 1959 06

Magazine Overview

APPROACH, Vol. 2, No. 3, published in June 1959, is a monthly review presented as a non-profit, Peace and Brotherhood Programme publication by Sagittarius Publishers in Pretoria, South Africa. The issue features articles on "From Natural Living to the \"Last Days\"", George Adamski's European tour and visit to the Queen of the Netherlands, a "UFO News Stand" section, letters to the editor, and a book review of T. Lobsang Rampa's "Doctor from Lhasa". The price for a single copy is 1s.3d., with an annual subscription at 12s.

From Natural Living to the "Last Days"

This lead article posits that true health and wholeness are based on the laws of nature and living in accordance with one's inner man and inherent urges. It contrasts this with civilizations that become overly exteriorized, relying on intellect and senses rather than instinct and intuition. When this connection to the inner self is lost, humanity turns to mastering outer nature, leading to materialism and technical substitutes for spiritual understanding. The article warns that when such a technical age reaches its culmination, the spiritless structure will topple, plunging humanity into its "Last Days".

GA Flying Home!

This section reports that George Adamski (GA) has unexpectedly cancelled further arrangements in Europe, including lectures in Italy, Austria, Germany, and Denmark. The reason cited is the need for a complete rest. Adamski was scheduled to travel from Copenhagen to Los Angeles on the 17th. The cancellation came as a shock to his friends and representatives, who express hope for his recovery.

GA's Visit to the Queen of the Netherlands

Miss Rey d'Aquila, GA's representative in the Netherlands, provides a special report on Adamski's visit. Despite a critical and ridiculing campaign by the English and Dutch press, the audience with the Queen lasted significantly longer than planned. The article suggests that the information GA shared was important, and that a statement attributed to Lt. Gen. Schaper, head of the Air Force, calling GA's report "incredible", was likely made to shield the Queen. GA himself reportedly conveyed the Queen's "deep & sincere interest". Attendees included Prince Bernhard and several professors. The discussions focused on space travel, with GA sharing his vision from his book "Inside the Space Ships". The report notes that the press coverage was distorted and largely against GA.

Press Conference and Adamski's Views

Following the Queen's audience, George Adamski held a press conference. While the press was largely hostile and distorted his words, GA later explained his stance. He discussed the "opposition" to his work and challenged reporters to name names, which he declined to do. Points raised by GA that did not appear in print included concerns about the "atomic course" leading to annihilation, the US Congress's declaration on the peaceful use of space, and the need for a constructive approach to progress over a destructive one. Professor Dr. E. L. Selliger of Delft University publicly thanked Adamski, stating that while the information might sound strange, strange things happen daily if one is open-minded.

The article also mentions efforts to create educational filmstrips about flying saucers with the aid of Desmond Leslie's material. The magazine aims to secure another report from Lou Zinsstag for the July issue.

The UFO News Stand

This section features a debate from the Johannesburg "Star" newspaper, where Miss Ann Grevler questioned Adamski's claims due to a lack of tangible proof. Mr. Ockert van Rooyen defended Adamski, calling him sincere and highlighting the difficult task he faces in a world of cynics. The section also reports on UFO sightings in the Eastern Cape and Transvaal, South Africa, between the 7th and 11th of June, including objects seen near Port Elizabeth and Zwartruggens, and one observed stationary for an hour by Dr. J. D. Mohr.

Letters to the Editor

Several letters are included:

• William Sherwood from Rochester, New York, recounts meeting George Adamski in New York City, describing him as an amazing, unselfish, forthright, and gentle individual whose concern is for a better world. Sherwood has since given numerous talks on the Universal Plan and spacelife.
• Dieter Gernert from Nuremberg-Thon, Germany, questions the timing of "medial communications" from "planetarians", suggesting they should have warned humanity about World War II before UFOs were widely sighted. He finds these messages "weird" and "idiotic", preferring practical exploration over fanciful subjects.
• C.B. from Otahuhu, New Zealand, advises against being too high-minded about "lesser psychic souls" and suggests guiding them gently, as Ashtar and his group are "beginners".
• H.V. from S.W. Africa expresses irritation with the talk of "brotherhood" in cosmic UFOlogy, questioning its limits.

The editorial response to these letters is forthright, defending the magazine's writing style and emphasizing the importance of discipline and self-purification over "psychic trends" from past lives, referencing Buddhist teachings. The editors state they present information but do not force it upon others.

Book Review: The Lama's Story Continued

This review discusses T. Lobsang Rampa's "Doctor from Lhasa," the continuation of his "Third Eye" narrative. The reviewer acknowledges the initial controversy surrounding Rampa's identity (allegations of being an English plumber) but argues that the book's content and style suggest otherwise. The review praises the book's gripping narrative, describing it as a portrait of an unbreakable human being enduring extreme hardship, including the Japanese invasion and conflict. It highlights Rampa's "esoteric training" and "faith in The Gods" as sources of his resilience. The book is commended for its expositions on astral flight, clairvoyance, and breathing techniques, suggesting it might inspire a "world-wide rush" for crystal balls. The reviewer notes that the book contains warnings and preliminary requirements for developing paranormal faculties, emphasizing the need for a healthy body, sane mind, and fearless heart. The review concludes by stating that the book is highly recommended, offering insights into ancient civilizations and cosmic events, and is worth reading multiple times.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the contrast between natural, spiritual living and materialistic pursuits, the controversial figure of George Adamski and the UFO phenomenon, and explorations of esoteric knowledge and personal development as exemplified by T. Lobsang Rampa. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting a spiritual and natural way of life, while critically examining UFO claims and media portrayals. The magazine encourages open-mindedness but also emphasizes discipline, reason, and self-purification, as evidenced in the responses to the letters to the editor.