Explanation:

- Past: The word "past" refers to a time that has already occurred, thus not fitting with the idea of returning to normal in the coming period.

- Future: The word "future" refers to a time that has not yet occurred. It aligns with the phrase as it implies a hope that normalcy will return later on.

- Present: This refers to the current time but does not fit the sentence context indicating hopes for change.

- Earlier: This suggests a prior time but doesn't align with the sentence implying a hopeful return to normalcy.

Future:

This is the correct option.