And remember: you must not overwork your body, or your soul. You must not enslave yourself, as you would not enslave any other person. You must be the custodian of your self.
In her book "Mudwoman," Joyce Carol Oates emphasizes the importance of self-care and personal boundaries. The quote serves as a reminder not to push oneself to the extremes, highlighting the need to treat oneself with the same respect and care one would offer others. Overworking and self-imposed slavery can lead to burnout and loss of individuality.
Oates encourages readers to be custodians of their own well-being, advocating for a balanced approach to life. This message signifies that recognizing personal limits is essential for maintaining mental and physical health, allowing individuals to nurture both their body and soul.