I was also prepared by good parenting that gave me a realistic understanding of life and survival.

My father was a cruel man, but he did teach me some lessons that are the exact opposite of what kids are told now. Many of these seems cold but are often true.

- Always have a backup plan. Society doesn't care if your homeless and destitute and in many ways prefers you this way. Always have a little bit of savings for an emergency. (easier said than done)

- When hard times come you won't be able to count on friends. Friends are good times accessories.

- Believe nothing that you hear and only half of what you see.

- Accept everything for face value only.