This year’s election has been a never-ending nightmare for the American people, complete with scandal, corruption, and fraud. The mere thought of Election Day has the whole world cringing, bracing for impact. Donald Trump makes Mitt Romney’s “binders full of women” sound like a dream and Hillary Clinton’s deep corporate ties and history of warmongering has me wishing a meteor would just put us out of our misery. But there is one person who gives me hope for American politics and he’s the same man who gave the entire world hope eight years ago. In the wake of the most disturbing election of modern history, to that man and his incredible family, I would like to say, “Thank you.”

President Obama, thank you for restoring grace and dignity to the White House. I don’t know how you managed to matrix your way through the past eight years, maneuvering every ostentatious accusation and grueling situation with poise and professionalism. You met every outrageous obstacle with grace and perseverance — truly honorable behavior we may not see from a leader for years to come.

Thank you for being the honorable president this country desperately needed. Despite all that the United States has to work on, despite the many critiques I and the rest of the world have for this country, for the past eight years, I could always say that I was proud of my president: who he was, what he stood for, how he led. I know that sense of pride is something I will not be able to experience for the next four years, so I am infinitely grateful that I grew up with a president for whom I have the utmost respect.

To President Obama and the First Lady, Michelle, thank you for being the heart of America. Your beautiful relationship is everything this country should be: filled with respect, love, and mutual support. You are the stability we so desperately need. The love and mutual respect you share has set an incredible standard for both me and future occupants of the White House, a standard we should strive to meet for years to come.

Not only is the sincerity and stability of your relationship obvious in every angle and interview, it is also reflected in your daughters. They are two brilliant, grounded, beautiful young women who have been excellent role models for children across America. I am hopeful that they too will bring enlightenment and compassion to whatever endeavors they may choose.

Thank you, President Obama, Michelle, Malia, and Sasha, for being a perfect example of who should occupy the White House and for setting the standards for America’s First Family. I am going to miss you dearly, and am infinitely grateful for what you have done for this country.