To survive in Vermont you need to be flexible, as in not rigid. You need to be compassionate for others and know that your neighbor with polar opposite political views as you will be the first one to call when the power is out and ask if you are ok. And you will do the same for them. It means being flexible and adapting to the weather, the driving conditions, change in employment, and anything else that throws obstacles in your path.

If you are of a general optimistic frame of mind, who generally cares about the quality of, not only your life but others, you will do well here.

You just can’t ask Vermont to be all. And you can’t come here with buckets of money and expect Vermont to care. It won’t.

If you want to belong, you will. But that may take being flexible.