Because of an era of greed and irresponsibility that sowed the seeds of its own demise, because of persistent economic troubles unaddressed through the generations, because of a banking crisis that brought the financial system to the brink of catastrophe, we are being tested -- in our own lives and as a nation -- as few have been tested before.

WHITEHOUSE: President Obama on Dr. King's Legacy

In the last few days, we have been tested once again by Hurricane Irene.

WHITEHOUSE: The White House

Chart Analysis : The daily chart of the Sypder Trust ( SPY) shows that the daily Starc- band was tested early in the week while prices have been trying to stabilize over the past few days.

FORBES: Stock Rebound Comes into Question