The person you pass as you walk down the street might not be wearing our nation’s uniform today. But consider for a moment that a year or a decade or a generation ago, he or she might have been one of our fellow citizens who was willing to lay down their life for strangers like us.

More quotes by Barack Obama

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"Invest in our teachers, and our children will succeed."

- Barack Obama

Empowerment

"We are the change that we seek."

- Barack Obama

Leadership

"In the unlikely story that is America, there has never been anything false about hope."

- Barack Obama

Hope

"That’s the promise of tomorrow — that in the face of impossible odds, people who love their country can change it."

- Barack Obama

Inspiration

"If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible; who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time; who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer."

- Barack Obama

Inspiration

More Gratitude Quotes

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"When you arise in the morning, think of what a privilege it is to be alive, to think, to enjoy, to love."

- Marcus Aurelius

Gratitude

"To get happier, try gratitude, giving back, savoring, encouraging your optimism, and celebrating progress."

- Jonathan Harnum

Gratitude

"Be thankful for everything that happens in your life; it’s all an experience."

- Roy T. Bennett

Gratitude

"Sometimes the little things in life mean the most."

- Ellen Hopkins

Gratitude

"The two words that will change your life are 'thank you'. Like a candle that can light a thousand more without shortening its own life, appreciation is a gift that, when given, can set the whole world aglow."

- Stacey Lee

Gratitude