All this, added to the hours I have to spend in business, leaves me not sufficient time to meditate; and there is no opportunity here for me to go into a retired, silent place, where I can be perfectly still, which is what has the most internal effect on me, and the best and most lasting.

Two things I should and must do for my own soul's sake: speak less, and think less of my friends.

To do this will give me a retired place and an opportunity for silence in the midst of all that is around me.
"I feel that I am not doing anything to ameliorate the social condition of those around me who are under my influence and partial control.

Just now there seems a stand-still in this direction.

The Spirit promises to teach us in all things: what more would it have me do in this way?
What should be my next step?
My mind has been partially drawn away from this by the present poor state of business, which keeps us cramped in our funds.
"I fear that to take less food than I now do would injure my health--else I should fast often.
"To-day let me put in practice the two above-mentioned duties: silence, and less thought upon my friends.
"And now, O God! If Thou helpest not I shall be worse than before.
Heavenly Father, as the lower depends on the light and warmth of the sun for its grace and beauty, so, and much more, do I depend on Thee for life and progress.