George, adversity is enormously helpful as long as we survive the ordeal intact or sufficiently to carry on.

We learn to prioritize, problem-solve, and to act.

David Gergen's excellent book "Hearts Touched with Fire" stresses the value of the crucible. It suggests the lack of such in modern generations in America has produced mediocre leadership.

Best.

People in cold climates learned to store food to survive the winters, and excess could be traded.