In the words of Anderson Cooper, "We will not hear another speech like this in the next four years." Obama is one of the most skilled public speakers we will ever see, and he gave a speech filled with both a sense of finality and closure in regards to his presidency and a sense of hope for the future. Here are a few quotes that will hopefully inspire you as a friend, as a family member, and as a citizen.
"That potential will be realized only if our democracy works. Only if our politics reflect the decency of our people."
We did not come all this way to throw in the towel or lose our sense of class and grace when our ideals are threatened. You do not change minds, communities, or your country by simply being angry; you do it by being compelling, charismatic, and empathetic. These are the qualities he has stood for over the last eight years. In the next four years, fight for your ideals. But fight with these qualities in mind.
"That, after all, is why we serve- to make people's lives better, not worse."
Doing the honorable thing is not about the glory and attention that you will receive for doing it. If glory had been Obama's motive, nothing would have changed. We would not have the Affordable Care Act and we would not have marriage equality. Most achievements that you make will be accompanied by both praise and criticism. Work hard anyway. Achieve anyway.
"Let's be vigilant but not afraid."
Many leaders throughout history have capitalized on fear; Donald Trump is no exception. He capitalized on the fear of unemployment, fear of immigrants, fear of ISIS, and the fear of a collapsing economy. But fear does not lead to change. What leads to change is hard work. So pay attention, stay informed, and stay a part of the conversation.
"Yes, we can. Yes, we did."
We still have so far to go, but don't forget how far we've come. The changes that have been made in the last eight years are not being erased. They are being tested. So don't give up and don't go numb. This is not the end.
Thank you for everything, Obama. I hope this nation continues to make you proud.
