Scavenger Mentality: Possum Ain't Got Nothing On Survivalists

In the world of survival, the ability to adapt and make do with what's available is an invaluable skill. Just as possums are known for their resourcefulness, turning almost any situation to their advantage, survivalists aim to mirror this capability. When emergencies or disasters strike, having the mindset and knowledge to utilize common, everyday items for survival can make all the difference.

Fire is a cornerstone of survival. It provides warmth, a means to cook food, and a way to purify water. In a pinch, fire can be started using unconventional materials. Old receipts, dryer lint, or even a piece of gum wrapper paired with a battery can serve as kindling. If these aren't available, consider using steel wool and a 9-volt battery, a technique that can easily ignite a flame. Another great resource that is commonly overlooked is a Good, Hard piece of chert found on gravel roads. My daughter collects these regularly so we have a stash of gravel that will produce a spark from a carbon steel blade or tool.

Constructing a reliable shelter is about more than just protection from the elements; it's about creating a safe, secure space. Look for debris or materials that can act as insulating layers — leaves, branches, or even discarded cardboard can be lifesavers. If you find plastic sheeting or garbage bags, they can be used effectively to waterproof a makeshift cover. Remember, a tight structure not only shields from harsh weather but also retains body heat, crucial for survival.

Finding and purifying water is paramount. Common items like a bandana or t-shirt can be used to filter debris from water. In desperate situations, plastic bottles can become solar stills, using the sun's rays to distill water and make it safe to drink. Always be on the lookout for rainwater, which can be collected using tarps or large leaves.

Food might be the toughest resource to scavenge, yet nature often provides. Knowing edible plants in your vicinity is a significant advantage. In urban settings, finding food may be as simple as checking the produce section of an abandoned grocery store or scavenging for canned goods. Always ensure any found food is safe for consumption, particularly when considering wild edibles.

In survival, tools become extensions of your own capabilities. But what if you don't have any on hand? The key is improvisation. A simple rock can turn into a cutting tool or hammer. String or shoelaces can be repurposed as binding material. Tin cans can be fashioned into rudimentary stoves or containers for boiling water. Look around: nails, wires, or even glass shards can be transformed into functional tools with a bit of ingenuity.

Beyond all physical preparations, the most crucial survival tool is your mindset. A scavenger mentality means staying calm, calculated, and resourceful, no matter how dire the circumstances. This mindset allows creative problem-solving and helps you see potential in the most unlikely of places.

In essence, survival is about seeing the potential in everything around you and using that to overcome obstacles. By adopting a scavenger's mentality, just as the possum thrives by scavenging, you too can equip yourself with the necessary skills to survive and thrive in the face of adversity. Remember, the key to survival often lies not in what you have, but in how you use what you find.