In the late 2000's I had some stock positions but along came that mini crash of 2008 that caused my stocks to lose roughly half value. At the time I was looking at Ford, it was down to 75 cents a share, I knew Fords European division was doing very well. Then in recent times it has risen to as high as 13 dollars.
I would have made a killing if I had bought Ford at 75 cents.
The market seems to always have a comeback. Theres no harm in dipping your toes in the water. Buy some small positions in stocks you like or have a hunch about.