Farewell to our first black president

LETTERS LETTERS@USATODAY.COM

Dear President Obama, As an 8-year-old, you

stole my heart. At that time, I didn’t know much about your policies or your aptitude, but I knew your skin resembled mine. Something I had never seen in a presidential candidate. Unaware of the magnitude of the moment, I saw you from across the room, standing tall and proud.

Like a scene out of Exodus, you parted the sea of wealthy donors and press just to greet me and my dad. You, the Democratic nominee, walked towards me, and looked at me like I was the most important person in the room.

“Hey, Pastor,” you greeted him, and there I was beaming. Time stood still, and it was love at first sight for me. You embraced me in a hug and told me I could meet your daughters one day.

Now, at 17, I am more than just awestruck. I am proud that you were our country’s first AfricanAmerican president.

The Obamas showed America what a strong, loving black family looks like. The way you embraced me that day, and connected with me during your years in office, changed my life forever.

I join you in wishing our new president well. Americans need him to have the country’s best interest at heart, especially now when we seem to be more divided than ever.

I haven’t met him. His children say he’s a great man. We can only pray that the man they know and love will be the same man who shows up for work every day.

Mr. Obama, your stylish, youthful demeanor has drawn my generation to you. You’ve encouraged us to pursue our passions and dreams, unabashedly. You’ve shown us that despite our race, age and/or gender, “Yes, we can.’’

Even though you are no longer in the Oval Office, our time with you as president, loving father and devoted husband will continue to inspire millions.

Thank you, and on behalf of that wide-eyed 8-year-old who loved you at first sight, I pray that your best days are yet to come.

Your biggest fan, Nia. Nia Caldwell Houston