
She said: “My fellow Americans,“It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as First Lady of the United States.“I have been inspired by incredible Americans across our country who
lift up our communities through their kindness and courage, goodness and
grace.“The past four years have been unforgettable. As Donald and I
conclude our time in the White House, I think of all the people I have
taken home in my heart and their incredible stories of love, patriotism,
and determination.“I see the faces of brave young soldiers who have told me with pride
in their eyes how much they love serving this country. To every service
member and to our incredible military families: You are heroes, and you
will always be in my thoughts and prayers.“I think of all the members of law enforcement who greet us wherever
we go. At every hour of every day, they stand guard to keep our
communities safe, and we are forever in their debt.“I have been moved by children I have visited in hospitals and foster
care centers. Even as they fight difficult illnesses or face
challenges, they bring such a joy to everyone they meet.“I remember the mothers who have battled the disease of Opioid
addiction, and have overcome incredible hardships for love of their
children.“I have been inspired by the devoted caregivers for babies born with
Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome, and communities that give these children
the support and care they need to grow.“When I think about these meaningful experiences, I am humbled to
have had the opportunity to represent a nation with such kind and
generous people.“As the world continues to confront the COVID-19 pandemic, I thank
all the nurses, doctors, healthcare professionals, manufacturing
workers, truck drivers, and so many others who are working to save
lives.“We grieve for the families who have lost a loved one due to the
pandemic. Every life is precious, and I ask all Americans to use caution
and common sense to protect the vulnerable as millions of vaccines are
now being delivered.“In the midst of this hardship, we have seen the best of America
shine through. Students have made cards and delivered groceries to our
Senior Citizens. Teachers have worked twice as hard to keep our children
learning.“Families have come together to provide meals, supplies, comfort and friendship to those in need.“Be passionate in everything you do but always remember that violence is never the answer and will never be justified.“When I came to the White House, I reflected on the responsibility I
have always felt as a mother to encourage, give strength, and teach
values of kindness. It is our duty as adults and parents to ensure that
children have the best opportunities to lead fulfilling and healthy
lives.“The passion for helping children succeed would drive my policy initiative as First Lady.“I launched Be Best to ensure that we as Americans are doing
everything we can to take care of the next generation. Be Best has
concentrated on three pillars: well-being, online safety, and opioid
abuse.“In a few short years, I have raised awareness of how to keep
children safe online; we have made incredible progress on our nation’s
drug epidemic and how it impacts the lives of newborns and families, and
we have given a voice to our most vulnerable children in the foster
care system.“Internationally, Be Best has evolved into a platform that encourages
world leaders to discuss issues impacting the lives of children and
allows them to share solutions. It has been an honor to represent the
American people abroad. I treasure each of my experiences and the
inspiring people I have met along the way.“As I say farewell to my role as First Lady, it is my sincere hope
that every American will do their part to teach our children what it
means to Be Best. I ask parents to educate your children about the
courageous and selfless heroes who worked and sacrificed to make this
country the land of the free. And to lead by example and care for others
in your community.“The promise of this Nation belongs to all of us. Do not lose sight
of your integrity and values. Use every opportunity to show
consideration for another person and build good habits into your daily
lives.“In all circumstances, I ask every American to be an ambassador of Be
Best. To focus on what unites us. To rise above what divides us. To
always choose love over hatred, peace over violence, and others before
yourself.“Together, as one national family, we can continue to be the light of
hope for future generations and carry on America’s legacy of raising
our nation to greater heights through our spirit of courage, goodness
and faith.“No words can express the depth of my gratitude for the privilege of having served as your First Lady.“To all the people of this country: You will be in my heart forever.“Thank you. God bless you, and God bless the United States of America.”
Watch the farewell video below
A Farewell Message from First Lady Melania Trump pic.twitter.com/WfG1zg2mt4
— Melania Trump (@FLOTUS) January 18, 2021