F107 - We have seen dire predictions about the economy and business growth, especially manufacturing, for over 100 years. Each generation goes through a period in which they think "it is over".
Smile a bit - We have the highest and employment in the nation's history.
In the past 88 quarters (22 years), we have had 84 quarters of growth, and 4 quarters of retreat, in GDP. Two of those quaters were a direct response to 9/11, and the other two were in response to Iraq invading Kuwait in 1990.
Non residential business investement is growing at 12% ANNUALLY right here in the US of A.
If we could talk over a few beers, you might walk away feeling better about your retirement.