We take so much for granted here in the US, and assume that people in every country enjoy the same fortunate circumstances. Joining the military was a real eye-opener for me, because it gave me the chance to see how "the other half" lives.
When I was 10, the power went out for 3 days after a truck had an accident. The whole neighborhood was freaking out except my grandmother who was raised on a farm and was used to being prepared, unlike the "city folk" (her words) who expected everything to "just work" all of the time.
"Winter is coming" as they say (in more ways than one), and it would be wise for my fellow Yanks to prepare and be ready when the time comes.