"To all the people... know that this country belongs to you," the first lady said Friday.
Michelle Obama got emotional as she delivered her final public remarks as first lady Friday.
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“Being first lady has been the greatest honor of my life," she said inside the White House. "I hope I’ve made you proud."
As her voice cracked several times, the wife of the 44th U.S. president spoke to the younger generation as she was surrounded by teachers, students and counselors.
She said: “I want our young people to know that they matter, that they belong. So don't be afraid. You hear me, young people? Don't be afraid. Be focused. Be determined. Be hopeful. Be empowered. Empower yourself with a good education. Then get out there and use that education to build a country worthy of your boundless promise. Lead by example with hope; never fear."
As the woman around her began to shed tears, Mrs. Obama told the crowd she may be leaving the White House, but the students of America will always be close to her heart.
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"I’ll be here," she assured.
The event inside the White House was aimed at honoring the 2017 School Counselor of the Year and comes exactly two weeks before Donald Trump will be sworn in as her husband’s successor.
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