When I was ten years old, my fifth grade class got called down to the lunch room where all the tables had been removed and a portable screen had been placed down at one end. We sat around it and watched as Barack Obama was inaugurated. When you’re ten years old, you don’t really know who Barack Obama is or what the word “inaugurated” means; but if you were anything like ten year old me, you do have the Nickelodeon “kids pick the president” song stuck in your head and that’s all that really matters, honestly. Watching his inauguration- as well as watching my teachers, mother, and audience in Washington D.C. react to it - I knew something was changing. Everyone was happy for this man and I was, too.
Growing up under the Obama Administration, for me, was a period of stability. Prior to his presidency, I was too young to understand the American system of government. Once I began to understand his role, I never questioned his authority or ability to govern. Although I agreed with most of his policies throughout the past eight years, I am not so naive to think that everyone else in the country feels the same. However, one thing that can be said about Obama’s political actions is that he never compromised his integrity. Sure; one could argue that that may not be the most reasonable ideal for a president to assume as it doesn't always lead to the greatest amount of action taken; but for me, it is respectable that he didn’t stray from his beliefs for the sake of ease.
For as many jokes that can be made about how chill of a president Obama is, he was an image of utmost elegance and eloquence as much as he was approachable and open. In conferences and public appearances, he didn’t talk down to but talked with the American people. It is easy to see in Pete Souza’s photos from behind the scenes of the administration the compassion Obama has for the people of the US; he has made the office of the president accessible to everyone.
As a young girl, it was incredibly important to see President Obama exhibit unconditional respect and love for his wife, Michelle. Their relationship is one of support and equality, and to see their love so publicly displayed was inspiring. Michelle Obama - a role model, style icon, and overall queen- showed the nation what can come from hard work and a fierce spirit. She did everything with so much passion and grace, as well as humor and incredible dance moves. With all these inspiring qualities so prevalent and discussed in the media for the past eight years, she provided young women of this nation a goal to aspire to.
To look at Obama and define him by his politics is simple and easy, but not necessarily fair. As a person, President Obama has proven himself to be a good man; he has shown his devotion to family and country, to creating an image that promotes intelligence and diligence, and to his job. Sometimes, it isn't about politics but respect and humility. If I have learned anything from growing up under President Obama, it is how to lead a life of grace and humor.
