"Each is under the most sacred obligation not to squander the material committed to him, not to sap his strength in folly and vice, and to see at the least that he delivers a product worthy the labor and cost which have been expended on him"

This quote by Anna Julia Cooper is a call to action for people to take duty for their own lives and to take advantage of the opportunities they have been offered. It is a reminder that we have a duty to ourselves and to those who have invested in us to take advantage of our lives. Cooper is emphasizing the significance of using our resources wisely, preventing wasteful habits, and making every effort to produce something of worth with the time and resources we have actually been given. She is likewise encouraging us to take care of ourselves and to prevent activities that will sap our strength and energy. Ultimately, Cooper is advising us that we have a duty to make the most of our lives and to utilize our resources to develop something of worth.