Akademik

Буря только рощу валит, а кусты к земле гнет
In hard times, it is only adaptable and flexible people that can survive
Cf: High cedars fall when low shrubs remain (Br.). Oaks may fall when reeds stand the storm (Br.). A reed before the wind lives on, while mighty oaks do fall (Am., Br.)

Русско-английский словарь пословиц и поговорок. . 2013.