What do you imagine President Barack Obama did in the final moments when he bid 'adieu' to the Oval Office for the last time in January?
Race Joe Biden around the room? Jump up and down on the sofas? Scribble 'Obama was 'ere 2k16' underneath his desk in black biro?
Well, as we all know, the 44th president of the US left a handwritten parting letter to his successor, Donald Trump, on which he wrote on the envelope in capital letters 'Mr. President'.
In January, Trump said it was 'really very nice of him to do that', that he would 'cherish' the latter, and wouldn't tell the press the contents of the letter.
However, CNN have obtained a copy of the letter which contains some sage words of advice for the 45th president.
On White House stationary, Obama congratulated the former reality star on 'a remarkable run' and reminded the new Leader of the Free World that 'millions have placed their hopes in you'.
Noting there was no 'clear blueprint for success' as a president, Obama shared a few pieces of advice he'd learned during his eight years in office.
'It's up to us to do everything we can (to) build more ladders of success for every child and family that's willing to work hard,' he first pointed out.
He then went on to emphasise the importance of sustaining international order, acting as 'guardians' of democratic institutions and traditions, and taking time for friends and family.
'They'll get you through the inevitable rough patches,' he added.
Wishing Melania and Trump the best as they embarked on a 'great adventure', Obama said he and his wife Michelle were ready to help with anything needed, before signing off his letter 'good luck and Godspeed. BO'.
A very kind, democratic, and helpful letter for the president of the US, if you ask us.
Now might be the time to read over Obama's note and rethink a few of your policies, Trump.
Read the full letter below:
Dear Mr. President -
Congratulations on a remarkable run. Millions have placed their hopes in you, and all of us, regardless of party, should hope for expanded prosperity and security during your tenure.
This is a unique office, without a clear blueprint for success, so I don't know that any advice from me will be particularly helpful. Still, let me offer a few reflections from the past 8 years.
First, we've both been blessed, in different ways, with great good fortune. Not everyone is so lucky. It's up to us to do everything we can (to) build more ladders of success for every child and family that's willing to work hard.
Second, American leadership in this world really is indispensable. It's up to us, through action and example, to sustain the international order that's expanded steadily since the end of the Cold War, and upon which our own wealth and safety depend.
Third, we are just temporary occupants of this office. That makes us guardians of those democratic institutions and traditions -- like rule of law, separation of powers, equal protection and civil liberties -- that our forebears fought and bled for. Regardless of the push and pull of daily politics, it's up to us to leave those instruments of our democracy at least as strong as we found them.
And finally, take time, in the rush of events and responsibilities, for friends and family. They'll get you through the inevitable rough patches.
Michelle and I wish you and Melania the very best as you embark on this great adventure, and know that we stand ready to help in any ways which we can.
Good luck and Godspeed,
BO
Katie O'Malley is the Site Director on ELLE UK. On a daily basis you’ll find Katie managing all digital workflow, editing site, video and newsletter content, liaising with commercial and sales teams on new partnerships and deals (eg Nike, Tiffany & Co., Cartier etc), implementing new digital strategies and compiling in-depth data traffic, SEO and ecomm reports. In addition to appearing on the radio and on TV, as well as interviewing everyone from Oprah Winfrey to Rishi Sunak PM, Katie enjoys writing about lifestyle, culture, wellness, fitness, fashion, and more.
