What reasons does Paul give for remaining on the farm?

From the text:

"Even as a desert it's better than sweeping out your father's store and running his errands. That's all I've got ahead of me if I do what you want."

"I can't go, Ellen. Living off your people - charity - stop and think of it. This is where I belong. I can't do anything else."

"We'll have crops again," he persisted. "Good crops - the land will come back. It's worth waiting for."