Obama sheds tears in talk to staff

U.S. President Barack Obama waves as he returns to the White House Nov. 7, 2012, a day after his re-election. He his followed by first lady Michelle Obama and their daughters Malia and Sasha. UPI/Joshua Roberts/Pool

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Published: Nov. 9, 2012 at 9:19 AM

CHICAGO, Nov. 9 (UPI) -- President Obama wiped away tears while speaking to Chicago campaign staffers after he won re-election, telling them they provide him inspiration.

In a video posted to YouTube Thursday, Obama discussed his work as a community organizer in Chicago's South Side, saying the work he did changed him more than he changed communities, The Hill reported.

While talking to the staff, Obama can be seen wiping away tears several times and pausing as if he were trying to collect himself.

"You are so much better than I was, in so many ways. You're smarter, you're better organized and you're more effective. I'm absolutely confident that all of you are going to do just amazing things in your lives," Obama told the staff in the campaign-released video.

"And that's why even before last night's results, I felt that the work that I had done in running for office had come full circle. Because what you guys have done means that the work that I am doing is important."

In the video, which several media outlets said apparently was recorded Wednesday, Obama calls his campaign staff the source of his inspiration.

"The most important thing you need to know is that your journey is just beginning. You're just starting," he said. "And whatever good we do in the next four years will pale in comparison to what you guys end up accomplishing for years and years to come."

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Obama sheds tears in talk to staff