The best way to escape from your problem is to solve it. Be more concerned with your character than with your reputation. Your character is what you really are while your reputation is merely what others think you are. Everything you want has a way of showing up as soon as your ready for it. It is better to be defeated on principle than to win on lies.
Imagination is more important than knowledge.
Knowledge is limited while imagination embraces the entire world. If you have something you don't need, give it to someone who needs it. It will come back one way or another. Never argue over unimportant details. Even if you win, you'll have gained no advantage.