The daughters of former President George W. Bush and his wife, Laura, wrote a powerful letter to Sasha and Malia Obama, giving them advice on what’s to come after they leave the White House next week.
Barbara Bush and Jenna Bush Hager recalled greeting the young Obama daughters eight years ago on the White House steps and showing them around their new residence.
“In eight years, you have done so much. Seen so much,” they wrote for Time magazine. “You attended state dinners, hiked in national parks, met international leaders and managed to laugh at your dad’s jokes during the annual Thanksgiving turkey pardon, all while being kids, attending school and making friends. We have watched you grow from girls to impressive young women with grace and ease.”
The Bush sisters urged the Obamas to enjoy college, explore their passions and learn who they are while surrounding themselves with friends who are “loyal” and will “fiercely protect” them.
“You won’t have the weight of the world on your young shoulders anymore,” the letter reads.
They ended the letter by acknowledging the harsh realities of having a father as president and mother as first lady.
“You stood by as your precious parents were reduced to headlines. Your parents, who put you first and who not only showed you but gave you the world. As always, they will be rooting for you as you begin your next chapter. And so will we.”
Malia Obama is currently taking a gap year and plans to attend Harvard University in the fall.
The Obamas are staying in Washington, D.C., until Sasha finishes high school.
