Obama's Weekly Address: Easter and Passover Reflections

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Reflecting on the meaning of Easter and Passover, President Obama said both holidays "remind us of the common thread of humanity that connects us all."

"These holidays have their roots in miracles that took place thousands of years ago. They connect us to our past and give us strength as we face the future," the president said in his weekly address.

As a Christian, Obama said Easter is a time to "reflect and rejoice" and recommit oneself to following Christ's example.

"We rededicate our time on Earth to selflessness, and to loving our neighbors," he said. "We remind ourselves that no matter who we are or how much we achieve, we each stand humbled before an almighty God."

"All of us, no matter how or whether we believe, can identify with elements of His story - the triumph of hope over despair, of faith over doubt, the notion that there is something out there that is bigger than ourselves," he said. "These beliefs help unite Americans of all faiths and backgrounds. They shape our values and guide our work. They put our lives in perspective."