"Of all the tyrants the world affords, our own affections are the fiercest lords"

This quote by John Sterling talks to the power of our own emotions and how they can in some cases be more totalitarian than any external force. It recommends that our own love can be so strong that they can overpower us and take control of our lives. This can be seen in the way that we can become so connected to certain individuals, locations, or things that we become not able to let go of them, even when it would be in our best interest to do so. It also speaks to the way that our feelings can often be so frustrating that they can trigger us to make decisions that are not in our best interest. This quote functions as a reminder that we need to bear in mind our own emotions and aim to keep them in check, lest they become our own worst opponent.