Yesterday was an intense, emotional day for myself and many others. President Barack Obama’s inaugural speech will go down in history as one of the most inspiring speeches by a leader.

It was about being strong in the face of adversity, taking responsibility and uniting towards a common goal.

Here are some wise words from President Obama:

“We remain a young nation, but in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free, and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.

It has not been the path for the faint-hearted – for those who prefer leisure over work, or seek only the pleasures of riches and fame. Rather, it has been the risk-takers, the doers, the makers of things – some celebrated but more often men and women obscure in their labour, who have carried us up the long, rugged path towards prosperity and freedom.”

Basically, he’s warning us that we’re heading into some tough times, but we’ll get through it together. We all need to do our part, and that means growing up and sacrificing some immediate pleasures in order to reap greater rewards later. He’s asking us to pull up our socks, take responsibility for our own actions and think of others. And he reminds us that happiness, prosperity and freedom are found in progress by those willing to work hard, who take humble and selfless pride in that work, who are willing to put themselves on the line and to put everything they have into their creations in order to be of service to others now and in the future.

These words are so very inspiring! The first way I can contribute? Taking responsibility for my health. There are a few unhealthy activities that I’m indulging in right now that I know I have to give up. It’s the child in me crying out, “But I like it! It’s my life, I’ll do what I want with it!” But when I’m my healthiest, a more balanced me than I am right now, I have more of myself to give. I have more energy, strength, optimism, awareness and am more conscious of my thoughts, words and deeds. I can then be more like my heroes: Barack Obama and Cesar Millan.

What did you think of Obama’s speech? Have you thought about how you can take more responsibility?