It’s been some time since Donald Trump became the president-elect in November. The future remains as uncertain as ever, even before his election win. Many are in need of constant words of inspiration and hope. It seems that the political sphere has normalized platforms full of bigotry and has even awarded questionable behavior.
Trump gets sworn in as the 45th President of the United States on January 20, which only leaves President Obama with very little time to tie up businesses that may be pending. He is still in the process of thanking people, his staff and the world as a whole for allowing him to take part in one of the most influential governments in the world.
I was too young to completely remember George W. Bush but now, I have every recollection of the Obama presidency. It is a very fond memory to have because of all of the initiatives, change and programs that have impacted the lives of many. I was able to observe it all firsthand. I was able to observe the leadership of a black president who had an accomplished First Lady by his side. Together they both lead the country. The Obama presidency was my first true presidency, or at least the one that I'll remember for years to come.
I’m glad Michelle Obama gave her last speech as the First Lady of the United States on January 6, 2017. Now, I am forced to think about my plan of action and how to lead in a world where there are many that don't want certain individuals to have leadership.
Michelle, from the beginning of Barack Obama’s first campaign, has been the poster woman pushing for equality and highlighting the importance of the future generations. It gives me shivers to talk about Michelle because she's an accomplished woman that truly embodies the “American Dream.” She is a major hero of mine for all of her work that she has done. Michelle is also a huge inspiration to me because of her hard work, ethics and professionalism.
Watching her last speech as first lady brought me to tears. Education is one of the most valuable foundations that youths can rely on to create a better future for themselves. She spoke about how difficult the climate for applying to colleges and universities are, especially since students are discouraged because of how little preparation there is for higher education in high schools.
Michelle mentioned that young people need to realize that they are important. School counselors are vital in helping figure out students' journeys after high school. It is unfair that the budget for these school programs are cut. Michelle has been working very closely with education directors to bring about more workshops to motivate students.
She has incorporated the help of popular philanthropists to help the cause of easier access to higher education. Celebrities have a large influence over young people and it is vital that the message of the importance of students and higher education becomes known. Many have become involved, such as: Usher, Wale, Ted Allen and Kelly Rowland..
Another takeaway from her last speech young people should remembers is the quote, “Don’t be afraid. Be focused. Be determined. Be hopeful. Be empowered. Lead by example with hope.” This message resonated with me because, as I previously mentioned, the future is still uncertain. Hope is a concept that can be lost so easily.
Hope is difficult to attain when the future is uncertain, especially when there is a pattern of bigotry and constant discouragement. As Michelle teared up saying this, the raw emotion of determination washed over me. I thought about my own future and the future I want to help provide for others.
Michelle used the analogy of her father. He worked in a city water plant for years and strived to see his children have a better life than he ever did. This included a good education and finer upbringing.
The first lady recalled that she had been discouraged by many teachers before applying to Princeton. She was told her goals were too high. What kept her going was the sheer determination to prove many wrong.
“Hope inspires hard work,” Michelle repeated in her final speech as FLOTUS. I can’t wait to see what she does next. Thank you for the millions of people that you have inspired. Thank you for all of the amazing work you have accomplished in the past eight years and in your entire career.
