When Maitreya comes before the world there will begin for men a period of intense heart-searching and reflection. It is only to be expected that for many it will be a painful, even traumatic, one. So steeped in the ways and ideas of the past, so fearful of a future unknown and strange, are millions today, that men will want to take stock of the new situation which will then pertain.

The necessity of change, radical and fundamental, will soon engage the minds of a growing number of statesmen and politicians, eager to add their voices and to put their stamp on the time. Far- reaching though they must be, the changes, it will be realized, must proceed at a pace commensurate with men's ability to adapt. Naught will be served by a too eager attempt to force the pace of transformation. Radically but logically, step by tested step, must the new foundations be built. On such firm rocks alone can the future stability of society be assured.

Plans

When Maitreya first announces his plans and hopes for the rehabilitation of the world, his energy of Love - the Sword of Cleavage - will further delineate the divisions which now exist. Men will take sides - for or against the new principles that he will present for the betterment of all. Thus will it be. Thus will a period of discord and discontent precede the acceptance of the new.

Gradually, however, even the least sanguine will acknowledge the need for a reconstructed world and add their weight to the task.

Aspirations

There will begin a time unlike aught seen before on Earth. On every hand and at every level the changes will pursue their logical course, cementing in law and principle and form the aspirations of all. Thus will men regain a hold on their destiny and turn away for ever from the abyss.

Not all men, of course, will view the future with equal pleasure. Diehards abound in every field and must be cajoled and humoured into compliance. In time, even those who most oppose will renounce their intransigence and enter the field of labour for the common good.

A simpler and a better life awaits the builders of the new time. This is the time of test and choice. When men realize this they will gather round Maitreya and seek willingly his guidance and succour, glad to be of service and to confirm their identity with his aims.