Five lessons about love from President and Mrs. Obama

“ For the past 25 years, you've not only been my wife and the mother of my children, you've been my best friend. You took on a role you didn't ask for and you made it your own with grace, grit and style.”

–President Obama

During his farewell speech on Jan. 10, 2017 at McCormick Place convention center in Chicago, President Obama teared up as he thanked Former First Lady Michelle Obama for her service and impact at the White House. 

“ In our house, we don’t take ourselves too seriously, and laughter is the best form of unity, I think, in a marriage.”

–Former First Lady Michelle Obama

Mrs. Obama shared on "Live! With Regis and Kelly” in 2011 the secret to staying grounded in love after decades of marriage. She reflected on how humor has helped them navigate the highs and lows.

“ It’s so important to marry somebody that you respect. It’s important to marry somebody who is your equal, and to marry somebody, and to be with somebody who wants you to win as much as you want them to win.”

–Former First Lady Michelle Obama

Mrs. Obama mentioned this to Gayle King at the 2019 Essence Festival in New Orleans, during a candid conversation about the realities of life, health, and marriage post-White House. 

“ She is just my rock, and I count on her in so many ways every single day.”

–President Obama

In a 2011 interview with Oprah Winfrey on her show, President Obama emphasized that love and respect are the foundation of a strong marriage. He and Mrs. Obama discussed their relationship, life together, and experiences in the White House.

“ There's no doubt I'm a better man having spent time with Michelle. I would never say that Michelle's a better woman, but I will say she's a little more patient.”

–President Obama

President Obama told Vogue in a 2013 interview how his and Mrs. Obama’s  relationship continues to shape him, underscoring the value of mutual growth, patience, and showing up for each other each day.