5 Ways Michelle Obama Took “Supporting Your Spouse’s Career” To The Next Level
Jackie Bledsoe, Jr.
Official White House Photo Pete Souza
Last night’s Presidential Debate, nor the results, were ideal for the Obama family. Much of the post debate feedback was in favor of Barack Obama’s opponent, Mitt Romney. Aside from that, it was the Obama’s 20th wedding anniversary.
Can you imagine celebrating your 20th anniversary on a “double date” with the couple who is trying to go “Donald Trump”, and fire your spouse?
A Positive Image
I admit we have had some lackluster anniversary celebrations ourselves. Fortunately, I have not had to ask my wife to join me, a couple attacking what I support, and a national television audience on our anniversary. Life as the POTUS and FLOTUS is never uneventful! Through it all, we have a first family that truly represents a positive image of marriage and family.
A Stronger Marriage
Like no other first family I am aware of, they have continually worked to not allow their demanding careers to change the way they function as a couple and family. Reading “attend presidential debate” next to “20th wedding anniversary” on a calendar can cause some major issues within a relationship. I don’t believe it did. It may have actually strengthened their relationship.
5 Ways To Support Your Spouse’s Career
Michelle Obama, in typical Michelle Obama fashion, took supporting her spouse’s career to the next level. Here are five ways she did it.
#1. She was honest. She could have said all the “right” or politically correct things on and off the record. She chose to be completely real with Barack and the people by stating in a recent interview:
“”I told Barack, ‘This, you know, attending a presidential debate on my 20th anniversary is probably the worst way for me to spend (it).’ … I get so nervous at these debates,” “
Her honesty allowed the President to be concerned with one less thing.
#2. She showed up. Maybe she had “no choice” but to show up. It may not have been best for the President’s reelection bid if she had not. But she did show up, and she showed up with a smile and as a source of encouragement for her husband. Nothing like seeing your life partner, best friend, and most beautiful thing to you when you are faced with a difficult work challenge.
#3. She was patient. Now Michelle didn’t just give up, or chalk up a wedding anniversary date as lost this year. She is patiently waiting until Saturday when they will have their “official” anniversary date. When you have pressing projects and deadlines it is comforting to know that when you get through with it, the one you want to spend your time with will be there waiting for you.
#4. She sacrificed. Before learning the presidential debate date and their anniversary date would occupy the same space, Michelle shared her ideal 20th anniversary would be to retrace their honeymoon road trip in California. She knew that would not happen, even before knowing of the debate date, due to campaigning. Yet she sacrificed without grumbling, without complaining, or making a mess of it. That sacrifice shows a love and respect that gives confidence to fight even harder because somebody is for you.
#5. She represented. Anytime you see Mrs. Obama next to her husband, you get an understanding of how he rose to become the most powerful man in the world. She represents him and their family in a great way. She was gracious when meeting the Romney’s, she showed great composure in the midst of an debate between her husband and another man, while all eyes were on her. Behind every great man is definitely a great woman.
Michelle Obama showed true support for her husband by sharing him, and their anniversary with the world during the presidential debate.
BMWK: Have you supported your spouse and his/her career in a next level way? Please share your story in the comment section below.
