Just try to watch Michelle Obama's last speech as first lady without tearing up

By Carla Javier  |  January 6, 2017 | 8:51pm
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In her final speech as first lady on Friday, Michelle Obama addressed a group of school counselors as part of her Reach Higher initiative–and offered us all a reminder of why she’ll be missed after the Obamas leave the White House.

“I want our young people to know that this country belongs to you–to all of you, from every background and walk of life,” Obama said. “If you work hard, if you get a good education, anything is possible–that’s what the American Dream is all about.”

By the end of her speech, Obama was shedding a few tears as she urged young people not to give into fear.

“You hear me, young people? Don’t be afraid. Be focused. Be determined. Be hopeful. Be empowered,” she said. “And know that I will be with you, rooting for you and working to support you for the rest of my life.”

“Being your first lady has been the greatest honor of my life, and I hope I’ve made you proud,” Obama finished.

Obama did not mention Donald Trump or his incoming administration in her remarks, but she did stress the importance of maintaining hope in the face of challenges.

It is our fundamental belief in the power of hope that has allowed us to rise above the voices of doubt and division, of anger and fear that we have faced in our own lives and in the life of this country,” Obama said. “Our hope that if we work hard enough and believe in ourselves, then we can be whatever we dream, regardless of the limitations that others may place on us.”

Users took to Twitter and to tell the first lady–who also spearheaded initiatives to encourage kids to lead healthier lives, support veterans, and help young women around the world get quality educations–just how proud they were.

Obama is slated to appear on “The Tonight Show” next week before leaving the White House to make way for President-elect Donald Trump.

You can watch Obama’s full address below:

 
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