In Uncertain Times, Those who know me well know that I love history. And, I hope you understand how important history is, not from any powers of predictability because that's certainly a fool's game, but from it's power to give us perspective and something we can relate to because we either lack experience, knowledge, or both regarding the situation at hand. I believe the main reason this perspective is so hard to come by is due to the bewildering and blinding amount of 24/7 instantaneous news: CNBC, FOX, CNN, talk radio, newspaper, and magazines (in the millions it seems). Is it any wonder we don't know what to do? News is, by its nature, short-term in nature. What happened yesterday or two hours ago, and how is that going to affect me in the next 10 minutes?
Thinking a little more long-term and looking back over the 22 years since I first entered the financial industry, it's amazing to ponder the resiliency of the American economy and stock market. Numerous "short-term" events and crises have caused us to question the future and to be fearful time and again. Please understand, I am not suggesting we not question or be fearful as there is a time for everything. I am suggesting that we consider carefully our response during crisis situations in light of the historical precedence. Maybe a walk down memory lane can help us gain that important perspective we need as we consider our future.
To continue reading this article, click here.
|
