This comes to mind, but I'm not sure if you are looking for more "physical world"-type preparedness:

St. Paisios’ teaching on the value of philotimo, nobility and sacrifice and on the need for interior vigilance and humble, positive thinking are particularly crucial for all who have been raised on the dregs of Western culture – a “culture” poorly so-called, which has, nonetheless, through globalization, laid exclusive claim to being the world-wide culture. The keystone of this now global way of life and worldview was succinctly stated by Rene Descartes at the beginning of the Enlightenment era: "I think, therefore I am." In contrast to this rationalistic creed, there stands that which has been written to describe the theology of the Elder Sophrony of Essex, but which can be applied equally well to the sum total of the teaching of the Elder Paisios, and indeed to all Orthodox life: “I love, therefore I am.” For, it is only by love for Christ and the love of Christ that philotimo, nobility and sacrifice, and all of life itself, can be understood. Moreover, it is only by descending into this self-emptying spirit of Christ that one can ascend to the heights where peace, hope and joy are acquired!