The message I took was more from the last section, the idea that periodically depriving yourself of certain comforts makes sure you're not becoming too reliant on them. People who take cold showers once in a while are more resilient when the hot water goes out for a few days.
In 38 years on this planet, my hot water has never gone out for a few days. Not going to prepare for something that A. Is unlikely to happen and B. Can be worked around by washing my armpits or showering somewhere else.
