Former president George Bush’s daughters have written an open letter to the Obama sisters sharing some advice on life after the White House.
Barbara and Jenna Bush penned a heartfelt note to Malia and Sasha in Time Magazine, in which they shared their wisdom on what was to come after their father’s presidency came to an end.
The Bush twins, 35, recalled the moment the sisters first met each other on the steps of the White House, after which they gave the 10 and seven-year-old Obamas a tour of their new home.
They spoke of showing the young girls their new bedroom, introducing them to all the house staff, and watched on as they slid down the banister of the solarium.
“In eight years, you have done so much. Seen so much,” Barbara and Jenna wrote. “We have watched you grow from girls to impressive young women with grace and ease.”
The Bush girls spoke of their admiration for the president’s daughters as they embarked on various journeys: standing at the gates of Robben Island, talking to young girls in Libya and Morocco about the importance of education and attending state events – all while just being kids.
“Now you are about to join another rarified club, one of former First Children — a position you didn’t seek and one with no guidelines. But you have so much to look forward to,” Barbara and Jenna wrote.
“You will be writing the story of your lives, beyond the shadow of your famous parents, yet you will always carry with you the experiences of the past eight years.”
The twins urged Malia and Sasha to explore their passions, learn who they are and never worry about making mistakes. Most importantly, they advised the Obama girls to continue to surround themselves with loyal, protective friends as “those who judge you don’t love you, and their voices shouldn’t hold weight”.
Barbara and Jenna told the First Children to take all they’ve seen, bear in mind all they’ve learned and remember all those they’ve met, before undoubtedly making positive changes to the world.
The letter concluded: “You have lived through the unbelievable pressure of the White House. You have listened to harsh criticism of your parents by people who had never even met them. 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.”
You can read the full letter here.
