Melania: Being first lady is the greatest honor of my life

First Lady Melania Trump views the 18.5-foot Fraser fir Christmas tree in the White House Blue Room outside the White House on Nov. 23, 2020.

U.S. First Lady Melania Trump (Trump) said in a farewell video released last Thursday (Jan. 14) that it has been an honor for her to serve as first lady.

She said, “My fellow Americans, it has been the greatest honor of my life to be the first lady of the United States. I am inspired by the incredible Americans across the country who have lifted up our communities through their kindness, courage, generosity and benevolence. The last four years have been unforgettable.”

Melania Trump, 50, a native of Slovenia, married President Donald Trump in 2005. The following year, she gave birth to their son, Barron.

Melania added, “When Donald and I come home from our time in the White House, I will carry all of them in my heart, including their incredible stories of love, patriotism and determination.”

“I see the brave young soldiers and the pride in their eyes tells me how much they love serving this country. To everyone on active duty and to our incredible military families: you are heroes and my prayers are always with you. I think of all the law enforcement officers who greet us wherever we arrive. Every hour of every day, they are keeping our community safe and we are forever grateful.”

“I am touched by the children I have visited in hospitals and foster care centers. Even when they were battling illness or facing challenges, they brought joy to everyone they encountered. I remember the mothers who struggled with the disease of opioid addiction and overcame incredible odds to love their children. I am inspired by the dedicated caregivers of children with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) and by the communities that give these children the support and care they need to thrive. When I think about these meaningful experiences, I am proud to have had the opportunity to represent a country with such kind and generous people.”

Melania Trump also mentioned her Be Best initiative, which encourages children to reach their full potential. One component is an attempt to address the increase in bullying among children, and the other is about the opioid epidemic. This addictive drug has ravaged communities across the U.S., devastating communities across the country.

In just a few short years, I’ve raised awareness about how to keep children safe online; we’ve made incredible progress on our nation’s drug epidemic and its impact on newborns and family life, and we’ve given a voice to our most vulnerable children in the child foster care system,” Melania said. Internationally, Be Best has evolved into a platform that encourages world leaders to discuss issues affecting the lives of children and allows them to share solutions. It is an honor to represent the American people abroad. I cherish every experience I have had and the inspiring people I have met along the way.”

The first lady urged parents to do their best to educate their children about Americans who work hard and sacrifice for the good of the country and how to lead by example and care for those in their communities.

Melania said, “The hope of this country belongs to all of us. Don’t lose sight of your integrity and values. Take every opportunity to show that you care about others and practice good habits in your daily life.”

“In every situation, I ask that every American be an ambassador for the ‘Be Best’ initiative. Focus on what we have in common and look beyond what divides us. Always choose love over hate, peace over violence, and others over ourselves. As a family of nations, we can continue to be a light of hope for future generations, carrying on the American legacy and lifting our country to a higher level through our courage, kindness and faith.”