I’m a little reflective now.

A year ago, the world was crashing in around us: Mega financial institutions were going under along with some of the big automakers – not to mention the fact that my second grader was having trouble in music class.

In the midst of it, I had to write cogent stories that not only could make sense of it all but also be able to conjecture on how it might end. Interesting time to be a journalist. Humbling, though, to have a column where people turn for insight.

In these times, I look to the journeymen – the ones who have weathered similar storms before. One such fellow is Warren Buffett, who sought to instill confidence by discussing his deep belief in the American economic system. It’s about perseverance and having faith in ingenuity.

During prosperous periods, people take things for granted. They get careless. It’s the same general mindset whether it is micro or macroeconomics. It’s the tough spots when we prove our true mettle. We’ve been tested. But we are emerging.

I can see it. I travel and speak at conferences. I meet decision-makers one-on-one. I talk to sources on the phone. I feel the tempo. It darn near ground to a halt. But it is now picking up. Understandably, it’s been painful. I’ve listened to heartbreaking stories about job loss and the decline of business. I get it.

And while my goal is to write intellectually honest columns, it is also to prognosticate – to try and help readers see through to the other side. Easy money, loose regulatory policies and the dark side of human nature combined to lead to this economic crisis. Hindsight is always 20-20. But it can be fixed and we can learn. Like Mr. Buffett, I also believe that if you take ownership in America, it will ultimately pay off.

As for me I’m going keep the pace. Too many depend on me: readers, co-workers – and a sixth grader who now needs math help. ###

Follow Ken on Twitter at freehand1200