Reversing the power dynamic

Because we value things which we cannot control, the things we value control us.

What do I value?

That which I value and that is without my control gives my power to those to whom have or may exert control over that which I value.

If I value money, then those who can take money from or provide money to me, have control over me.

If I value my leg, then whomever has the ability to chain my leg has control over me.

If I value praise, then I become dependent on and influenced by and slave to whomever supplies that praise.

If I value my freedom, then anyone who can or does threaten to take that from me, has control over me.

What are things solely within my control?

To me, my character, and by extension my reaction to any situation which arises are within my control.

So if I only value my character then indifference in general to or non attachment to any situational outcome becomes less likely to exert power over me in a way that would cause suffering and take my power away in a sense that victim mentality emerges.

Freedom from external influence comes when I control my character.

Character is the real measure of a person. It therefore should be my foremost priority to develop and focus on.