Eight years ago, I was elated on this day because the United States had elected Barack Obama to lead it into the future with hope and change and all types of promises that get made in during the election cycle. I knew his promises were overly idealistic, yet I anxiously awaited to see how many could be fulfilled.The past eight years have been good. Following the market decline in 2008 and the ongoing nature of the war in the Middle East, good is probably all that we could hope for.
Now we have elected a new president that wants to make America great again. President Obama has set the stage and given us the opportunity before us to do just that.
On this day, a day that many are calling historic, I encourage each of you to make it your mission to build a society that is hopeful, inclusive and big-hearted.
Whether you live in the United States, in North America or somewhere else in the world, we all deserve the respect that such a society would foster. And I truly believe that respect will lead to the collaboration that sets all other plans in motion and allows each of us to seek our potential and fulfill our dreams.
I ask you to move forward with purpose, my friends. Move forward with optimism and kindness and always, give the world your best.