Man’s character and conduct are often largely governed by his environment and circumstances. The mixed threads of good and evil embedded in his nature are drawn out by the circumstances through which he has to pass. Experience shows that in times of prosperity, ease and luxury, man’s base nature gets the upper hand whereas in adverse circumstances, the best in him comes to the surface. Nations which gave themselves up to a life of pleasure and indolence rapidly declined, whereas those which had to face ordeal after ordeal emerged harder and more powerful than before.

It is in times of difficulty that a man exerts himself utmost, reaches unsuspected heights of endurance and perseverance, whereas in easy times the sturdier part of his nature remains dormant and begins to deteriorate. A rich man with plenty of money often gives himself up to sensual pleasures, but a poor man leads a blameless and straightforward life so that he may keep his body and soul together.