Meaning of the word "oaks may fall when reeds stand the storm" in English

What does "oaks may fall when reeds stand the storm" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

oaks may fall when reeds stand the storm

US /oʊks meɪ fɔːl wen riːdz stænd ðə stɔːrm/
UK /əʊks meɪ fɔːl wen riːdz stænd ðə stɔːm/
"oaks may fall when reeds stand the storm" picture

Idiom

those who are strong and rigid may be destroyed by adversity, while those who are flexible and humble can survive it

Example:
In times of crisis, remember that oaks may fall when reeds stand the storm; flexibility is key to survival.
The rigid CEO was fired, proving that oaks may fall when reeds stand the storm.