You can think you know somebody. But when they're trying to punch you in the face, you really know somebody. You learn their tendencies.
This quote highlights the distinction between superficial familiarity and genuine understanding. Often, we believe we truly know others based on their public personas or shared experiences. However, moments of adversity reveal true character and reveal tendencies that might otherwise remain hidden. It emphasizes the importance of resilience and the sometimes harsh realities of human nature, reminding us that real insight often comes during challenging times. Such experiences can shape how we perceive not only others but also ourselves, as they reveal authentic traits that might not be apparent during calmer moments.