"Your glass will not do you half so much service as a serious reflection on your own minds"

Mary Astell's quote, "Your glass will not do you half so much service as a serious reflection on your own minds", encourages an extensive journey into introspection over external appearances. This statement suggests that the benefits of self-reflection and comprehending our inner selves far surpass those acquired from concentrating on our external appearances or how others view us.

In the 17th and early 18th centuries, when Astell wrote, society put considerable emphasis on physical look and social status, especially for women. Mirrors, or "glass" as referenced in the quote, signified society's fixation with surface-level beauty and the external. Astell proposes that this focus is shallow and fleeting. Instead, she champs self-reflection as a more significant and enduring pursuit.

Reflection on one's mind involves evaluating one's beliefs, worths, motivations, and aspirations. Through this process, people can get a deeper understanding of themselves, uncover their real capacity, and align their actions with their inner worths. This self-awareness is an effective tool for personal development and empowerment, leading to more fulfilling and genuine lives.

Astell, frequently regarded as among the very first English feminists, regularly promoted for the education and intellectual development of females. By encouraging people to prioritize inner reflection over appearances, she highlights the value of nurturing the intellect and character. This quote reflects her belief that the cultivation of the mind holds the crucial to transcending societal restrictions and accomplishing real individual liberty.

Therefore, while a mirror can reveal us just a superficial reflection, a major assessment of our own minds uses extensive insights that lead to meaningful individual development and a truer understanding of one's place on the planet. Astell's words resonate today, advising us to look inward for strength and knowledge instead of depending on external recognition.