The man of five hundred dollars income is trying to live as
tho he were sure of a thousand. Of course he is in straits and
shallows. Instead of sailing on a fair sea, as he might within
his own range, he is doomed to struggle perpetually with his
head under water. To live generously is desirable when one has
the means; but to attempt a scale of expenditure beyond our
means is neither wise nor comfortable. How much more sensible
to live in a modest way, agreeable to our fortune and suited to
our condition! To follow this rule requires more courage than to
besiege a city or fight a battle; but it is attainment for which
we should aspire as a means of personal comfort and a guard
against temptation.--_Zion’s Herald._
(1995)