What an insightful book! The first thing that made an impression was the way the book was divided into 3 parts: Becoming Me, Becoming Us, Becoming More. I believe Mrs. Obama is a woman of integrity, dreams and resilience. She set out to explain to her readers, while musing on her new "back steps", that she is still in the process of developing into a woman of strength who can continue to make a difference in her world....we are all in the process of becoming, no matter how old we are!! The key is to be teachable and flexible in transitions, and lean into Jesus for the wisdom we need to "fit" into our next roles/stages.
I also loved the many behind the scenes peeks into the life of a public figure---not so fun, most of the time. Every one of us, public or not, has difficulty with the opinions and criticisms of others--but when the opinions come from the media, there is not much recourse to problem solve or resolve the misunderstood action or comment. Frustrating and hurtful.
One of the wisest things she learned heading into the fray, was to choose her focus and work as a complement to her husband --rather than take on an administration role, as did Mrs. Clinton. (Even though Hillary was capable, it made for a bit of distrust and antagonism during the Clinton years.) I was not aware of all Michelle accomplished with her youth initiatives: Let's Move, Let Girls Learn, and the Global Girls Alliance.....kudos to her!
I would have to say that the part that disheartened me the most was the many times she voiced her frustration with the Republicans; although coming through eight years of constant battles certainly imprinted these issues on her heart. Most of us have seen through the years that both political parties play the same games so neither party smells like roses.
All in all, a great book. Just as the Bush sisters did in their memoir, this makes me want to pick up some biographies of other presidential wives from years past.
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