In fall 2008, we learned again just how important the big picture is to the investment world. Problems in the housing market effectively crippled Wall Street, wiping out corporations and pensions alike. The government stepped in, and the markets began to limp back to normal. And we're all left with piles of public debt, which won't be paid down any time soon. The experience generated a lot of market fear and distrust. But markets — like old-growth forests — go through periodic meltdowns and rebirths. And there's money to be made in every part of the cycle.