Here's a breakdown:
* Adversity: Difficult or challenging situations, hardship, and setbacks.
* Virtue: A positive moral quality, a desirable characteristic.
* Fortitude: Courage in the face of difficulty, strength of mind and spirit.
In essence, the phrase suggests that:
* Challenges are opportunities for growth: When we face difficult times, we can learn valuable lessons about ourselves and develop inner strength.
* Resilience is key: Overcoming adversity builds our ability to bounce back from setbacks and persevere through hardship.
* Strength comes from within: True strength isn't about being immune to difficulties, but about having the courage and determination to face them head-on.
Examples:
* A person who loses their job but uses the experience to retrain and find a more fulfilling career demonstrates the virtue of fortitude in adversity.
* An athlete who overcomes an injury to return to competition exemplifies the strength that comes from facing challenges.
* A community that rebuilds after a natural disaster shows the power of resilience and fortitude in the face of adversity.
In short, the virtue of adversity is fortitude means that while hardship is difficult, it can also be a catalyst for personal growth and a source of incredible strength.