One would be tempted to believe that none but a master in the spiritual life could have written the sentences which immediately follow this outburst of love and praise.  Yet remember that Isaac Hecker was not yet twenty-four, and that he knew nothing of the ways of the Spirit except what the Spirit Himself had directly taught him: 

“The reason why men are perplexed and in darkness about their being and the questions which their being often asks, is not that these are insoluble, but that the disposition and spirit in which a solution is attempted is so contrary to that in which they may be solved, that they appear as hidden mysteries.

“When we come together to converse, it should be to learn from each other what good we can and ought to do, and so mingle the brightness of one with the dimness of the other.  Our meetings should be such that we should go away feeling that God had been with us and multiplied our blessings.  The question should be, ’Brother, can you teach me the way of the Lord in a more perfect manner than that in which I tread it, so that my soul may be increased and God abide in me more and more?’ Oh! he is my brother, my master, who leads me to do more and more good and to love and live more of God.  He that does not increase my heart in love or my mind in true godly wisdom, is unprofitable and negatively injurious to me.

“Wilfulness locks up while willingness” (docility) “unlocks the portal to the divine mysteries of God.  I would not attempt to solve a mystery by intellect, but by being.”

“October 17.—­It is some time since I have written in this book.  All my spare time has been occupied in writing letters to my friends, meditating, feeling, arranging matters with my brothers regarding our relations with each other, and attending to the business.  I have had little time to read and to visit my friends.  Since I have written my feelings have become more definite, my thoughts clearer and more distinct, and my whole mind more systematic. . . .

“The settlement which has been made with my brothers gives me the opportunity of doing what my spirit has long demanded of me.  This afternoon I have been working on their bedroom, making it larger and more pleasant for their minds.  This is the first movement I have made toward ameliorating their condition.  I hope that God will give me strength to continue.”

“October 18.—­I feel this afternoon a deep want in my soul unsatisfied by my circumstances here, the same as I experienced last winter when I was led from this place.  It is at the very depth of my being.  Ah, it is deeply stirred!  Oh, could I utter the aching void I feel within!  Could I know what would fill it!  Alas! nothing that can be said, no, nothing, can touch the aching spot.  In silence I must remain and let it ache.  I would cover myself with darkness and hide my face from the light.  Oh, could I but call upon the Lord!  Could I but say, Father!  Could I feel any relationship!”