The White House

Thank you, Anne. We can all hear how much you loved your aunt, and I know she’s proud of you.  

Good morning, and welcome to the White House. And thank you to the U.S. Postal Service—isn’t the stamp just beautiful?! 

There is nothing that can prepare you to be First Lady—to wake up here, steps from the Oval Office, to sit in the Jackie Kennedy Garden and watch the morning light climb the monuments of our nation’s capital. 

First Ladies aren’t elected. We have no instructions to guide us. We are thrust into the national spotlight in a way I know none of us could have anticipated.  Yet, each day is such a blessing – to serve the American people with an incredible platform. 

First Lady Nancy Reagan served the American people with grace.  

She understood that the role of First Lady came with inherent pitfalls and scrutiny. 

And she also found the humanity in it all. She knew the potential of this role as well. She traveled the country, listening to Americans’ stories, and brought them home to her husband. She raised attention on issues that she cared about and spoke bravely about her cancer and mastectomy.    

Next month would have been Mrs. Reagan’s 101st birthday—ending her centennial year—and with this stamp, we are affirming that she made such a difference.  

We can all change the world in big ways and small ones. And Mrs. Reagan reminded us that we need both.  

It is up to each of us to find the small, everyday ways we can bring our communities together as well. We never know what’s behind someone’s smile—or how much they might need our kindness and strength.  

So, we must find our own ways to be a shoulder to lean on—be an ear to listen when someone feels alone. We have to learn from those we don’t understand. To reach across the divide and find common ground—because that’s where the foundation of our future must be laid.  

Because we all have a role to play. And the more kindness we give, the more is reflected back on us. When we listen, learn, and lift up those around us who are struggling, we draw closer to each other—and to a community where everyone has the opportunities they need to thrive.   

Despite our differences, we can build a better world when we do it together.   

Thank you for joining us today and may God bless you, our military, and their families.  

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