Dear Hillary, thank you for what you've taught me

I’m honored to have seen your world from the inside looking out, to understand the immense contrast between who you are and how the media and your critics portray you.

I’ve spent this campaign fighting for you, not because of what it means for me, but because of what your presidency would symbolize (and do) for the women and girls in my family — not to mention for women and children around the globe.

I’ll never forget the intensity of the 2008 campaign and although the outcome fell short, I’ve watched in awe as you came back and tried again, knowing the hellish fury you’d be subjected to by your detractors. The uglier it became, the harder I fought, following your example, trying my best to stay steady and dignified in the face of the onslaught, knowing that history doesn’t come without hardship and struggle.

It’s Election Day and I’m heading out to vote for you. Before I do, I wanted to express my gratitude for everything I’ve learned in the ten years since I sat down for that first job interview with you.

Thank you for what you’ve taught me about dignity.

Thank you for what you’ve taught me about leadership.

Thank you for what you’ve taught me about focus.

Thank you for what you’ve taught me about perseverance.

Thank you for what you’ve taught me about inner fortitude.

Thank you for what you’ve taught me about pragmatism.

Thank you for what you’ve taught me about believing in yourself.

Thank you for what you’ve taught me about trust.

Thank you for what you’ve taught me about grace under pressure.

Thank you for what you’ve taught me about faith in others.

Thank you for what you’ve taught me about family.

Thank you for what you’ve taught me about loyalty.

Thank you for what you’ve taught me about humility.

Thank you for what you’ve taught me about patience.

Thank you for what you’ve taught me about caring.

Thank you for what you’ve taught me about generosity of spirit.

Thank you for what you’ve taught me about accepting your own imperfections.

Thank you for what you’ve taught me about learning from your mistakes.

Thank you for what you’ve taught me about the value of humor.

Thank you for what you’ve taught me about the power of joy.

Thank you for what you’ve taught me about the discipline of gratitude.

Thank you,

Peter