Thank you Mr. President, for the last seven years of leadership. I haven’t agreed with you all the time since 20 Jan. 2009, but I have tremendous respect for you as our president, a world leader, and as a husband and father. I have always loved how you have made Mrs. Obama, Malia, and Sasha your clear priorities.

You have endured tremendous ugliness from the right, including and perhaps especially a level of contempt we have never seen, for the Office of the President. And yet, you have shown tremendous grace under pressure; demonstrated leadership in the face of enemies here and abroad; and been a compassionate and empathetic leader. And you’ve done it all with class.

Thank you, Mr. President. America is better because of you. I look forward to the coming year, as you push forward until the last.

Peace and blessings to you and your family.