Michelle Obama Quotes: 4 inspiring moments the first lady gave us to live by

Impact

Michelle Obama, whose eight years in the White House focused on fights against bullying and childhood obesity, has been a beacon of strength and compassion for all Americans. During a rally in Winston Salem, North Carolina, on Oct. 27, 2016, Hillary Clinton posed the question: "Seriously, is there anyone more inspiring than Michelle Obama?" Here are four quotes and inspiring moments that answer that question with a resounding "no."

DNC Speech, 2016

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During her speech at the Democratic National Convention, Michelle Obama, attempting to combat the rise of Donald Trump, said to the crowd that she strives to teach her daughters that "the hateful language they hear from public figures on TV does not represent the true spirit of this country."

She explained, unveiling her family's motto that quickly took the world by storm, that "when someone is cruel or acts like a bully, you don't stoop to their level. Our motto is: When they go low, we go high."

Oprah interview, 2016

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In an interview with Oprah in December, Obama discussed the importance of hope.

"See, now we are feeling what not having hope feels like, you know," Obama said. "Hope is necessary. It is a necessary concept. What do you give your kids if you can't give them hope?" 

Young African Women Leaders Forum, 2011

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Michelle Obama gave the keynote address at the Young African Women Leaders Forum in 2011. In her remarks, she discussed courage.

"You may not always have a comfortable life," she said. "And you will not always be able to solve all the world's problems all at once. But don't ever underestimate the impact you can have, because history has shown us that courage can be contagious, and hope can take on a life of its own." 

Final address, 2017

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In her emotional final address as first lady, Obama urged young people to be empowered and said she will always work to support them.

"I want our young people to know that they matter, that they belong, so don't be afraid," Obama said. "You hear me? Young people, don't be afraid. Be focused, be determined, be hopeful, be empowered. ... Lead by example with hope, never fear, and know that I will be with you, rooting for you and working to support you for the rest of my life."