Dear President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama,
Through a large part of 2012, I watched the rallies, conventions, debates, and campaigning that went into achieving your dream of another term as President of the United States of America.
However, each time I watched both of you take to the podium, speaking to millions across America and the world, I knew that this dream was not one you wanted for yourselves, but for every American and for dreamers all around the world.
Often in these hard times, too many Americans struggle and strive to achieve the American dream, but it seems that success is only for the wealthy and influential. On January 20, 2009, when you were sworn in as President, you abolished the idea of "impossible" from the minds and lives of every hard working American. You, along with Michelle, showed the world that success is not defined by what you have but by what you have done.
There are times when I think dreams seem impossible to achieve, especially when negativity from others weighs me down. You both have shown me how to look at the positive side of criticism with a smile and have confidence in what I do. Not everyone is going to be a fan of every decision you make, but I've learned from you that the most important thing a leader can do is stay true to their values and continue to believe in their abilities.
Most importantly, both of you remind young people that once we have walked through that door of opportunity, we should not close it shut and gloat about our success. Rather, we should stay humble and leave that door of opportunity open to others, remembering that every individual deserves the opportunity to succeed.
President Obama, you are the first African American President we have ever had, and every day you've been in office you have made history.
In 1963, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr shouted out the words, "I have a dream." Today, exactly 50 years later at the 2013 inauguration, I can't but help think about the dreams of Americans that will be realized in your second term.
Mr. and Mrs. Obama you are an inspiration for all of us dreamers, and especially this dreamer.
Here's to another four years!
Cheers,
Marsha