The way I see it, what is self-discipline, if not the power to exert control over yourself and not be a slave to the impulses of the moment?

I think I'd call that control rather than power, but I suppose an argument could be made that the two are synonymous.

But then again, maybe they aren't? In response to the rest of your response, I think self-control/discipline may be different than power, or at least how I've come to relate with the term.

I don't know that I agree with your point about relationships being about power struggles. They CAN be, but they aren't always. In my relationship with my fiance, we are continuously aware about each others needs and make sure we don't impose what we want on the other when it's not mutual. I guess that's the definition of a healthy relationship.

In repose to the last paragraph you wrote, I would have to say that I'm among those who don't desire power. While my emotional needs aren't always met (I get sad, anxious, etc.) I know that those are things that I can control and always have the ability to do so. It's not that I desire the power to change my emotions, I know that regardless of the situation, I have the ability to do so. I'd say as well that I'm constantly aware that all things could be taken away from me. An awareness of non-attachment has led me to be fine with the loss of anything, including my own life (although, I do still struggle with the possibility of losing my fiance for whatever reason. I'm certainly not 100% at non-attachment, but I believe there are people out there who have achieved that state).

In a conversation someone brought up the quote "knowledge is power" to which I replied that I don't want to be powerful, I want to be peaceful.