HANDWRITTEN :: Letter of Hope

Recently, President-elect Barack Obama penned a letter to his daughters, “What I want for You—and Every child in America.” No matter your political affiliation, this letter is a parent’s testament and devotion to his children. Like any parent, the letter shares a father’s personal desire for his daughters and all other children to be able to live the best life possible:

Dear Malia and Sasha, I know that you've both had a lot of fun these last two years on the campaign trail, going to picnics and parades and state fairs, eating all sorts of junk food your mother and I probably shouldn't have let you have. But I also know that it hasn't always been easy for you and Mom, and that as excited as you both are about that new puppy, it doesn't make up for all the time we've been apart. I know how much I've missed these past two years, and today I want to tell you a little more about why I decided to take our family on this journey. When I was a young man, I thought life was all about me-about how I'd make my way in the world, become successful, and get the things I want. But then the two of you came into my world with all your curiosity and mischief and those smiles that never fail to fill my heart and light up my day. And suddenly, all my big plans for myself didn't seem so important anymore. I soon found that the greatest joy in my life was the joy I saw in yours. And I realized that my own life wouldn't count for much unless I was able to ensure that you had every opportunity for happiness and fulfillment in yours. In the end, girls, that's why I ran for President: because of what I want for you and for every child in this nation.

Read the entire letter here.


What would your letter say to your current or future children? What about your parents, grandparents, siblings, significant others, friends , strangers, the U.S.? Leave us a comment below and share your Letter of Hope.

Better yet, take a few moments to actually handwrite the Letter of Hope and give it to the addressee on Inauguration Day or another special day in the future like graduation, birthday or wedding. Their hearts and yours will swell with pride and appreciation because you BELIEVED in them.

Image Courtesy Crane Stationery