To resist the influence of others, knowledge of ones self is most important.
Teal'c "Stronghold" Stargate SG1

You can never really live anyone else's life, not even your child's. The influence you exert is through your own life, and what you've become yourself.
Eleanor Roosevelt

I have thought a sufficient measure of civilization is the influence of good women.
Ralph Waldo Emerson

A return to first principles in a republic is sometimes caused by the simple virtues of one man. His good example has such an influence that the good men strive to imitate him, and the wicked are ashamed to lead a life so contrary to his example.
Niccolo Machiavelli

A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.
Henry Adams