Remissness grows upon most people who do not make it their study to guard against it. The indolent are never satisfied, their imaginary maladies become the most serious evils in nature, and occasion a torpor of mind that render them unequal to any exertion. It is only by constant attention and practice, that the habit of punctuality will be thoroughly confirmed. Proceed upon a regular plan, and you will meet every circumstance in its own proper place. You need not be at a loss how to dispose of your time. By observing a strictness of conduct, you will readily form a consistency of character. It is only those who act with system, and who live by principle, not caprice, that are deserving of confidence. To what causes may be attributed those scenes of distress that daily occur? Families that once were in a flourishing condition, reduced to poverty. Perhaps the Widow and Orphan thrown friendless upon the world. It is generally from mismanagement and imprudence that such circumstances result. Believe me, then, that uniformity and economy are the necessary support of domestic prosperity and happiness. If you permit yourself to pass the bounds of frugality, and live beyond the extent of your income, you will necessarily encounter unhappiness. Attention to these particulars, will serve to correct that negligence which might lead you to omit some duties, and deter you from that precipitation which might cause you to perform others imperfectly. It is in domestic happiness, that all sensible and virtuous persons find their chief satisfaction; and it is one of our first duties to endeavour to realize the attainment of it. When you view the different parts of behaviour I have pointed out, it must occur to you, they are all mutually connected, and essential for your happiness. The estimate of Self-Government, and Social Retirement. Embrace occasional retirement, to acquire a knowledge of yourself. Study will improve your understanding, and render you an agreeable companion. THE pages of history (both ancient and modern) will inform you, that some of the noblest characters that have adorned mankind, were formed in retirement. "Save a few chosen friends who sometimes deign "To bless my humble roof with sense refined." THOMSON. |