The Two-Meal-a-Day System

Whatever we today may think of the merits of the two-meal-a-day system, there is no questioning the fact that it constituted an important part of the reform message then. To him who argued that he could not work on two meals a day, Elder White replied:SHM 165.3

“Are such aware that it is their custom to work on only two meals, breakfast and dinner, as they are called, and to sleep on their supper? Who needs this meal to sustain them in sleep? Why not let the stomach rest and be refreshed as well as the other portions of the system? Why keep the stomach mill running all night? Why not save this unnecessary wear of this delicate organ, and let it last in good condition as long as other portions of the human organism? In so doing you will save yourself those restless nights, fevered sleep, and unpleasant dreams. And in the morning you will arise refreshed, in good condition to enjoy the blessing graciously given by Providence.”—Ibid.SHM 165.4

In concluding this portion of his sermon on sanctification, Elder White made an incidental allusion to the dress reform, which is indicative of the progress made in this direction by that time.SHM 165.5

“We are happy to report,” he said, “that at least forty of the most respectable, devoted, and wealthy of our sisters in our northern churches have on today the dress of which Mrs. White’s is a model. In this respect we would join our efforts with those who have the responsibility and toils of the health institution; and we know of no other way of accomplishing the matter, but for all to take hold of it without scringing. We would say to the praise of some worldly men who have Sabbathkeeping daughters, that after seeing them put on this modest, healthful, and convenient dress, they have urged others of their daughters to go and do likewise.”—Ibid.SHM 166.1

The foregoing statement is corroborative of the fact that Mrs. White was a pioneer among Seventh-day Adventist women in adopting a reform dress, having worn it herself since the autumn of 1865.SHM 166.2