On Tuesday in an open letter to his two young daughters, US president-elect Barack Obama said Thursday that he entered the race for the White House because of what I want for you and for every child in this nation.

When I was a young man, I thought life was all about me -- about how I'd make my way in the world, become successful, and get the things I want. But then the two of you came into my world, Obama said in the letter published in Parade magazine, a weekend newspaper color supplement.

I realized that my own life wouldn't count for much unless I was able to ensure that you had every opportunity for happiness and fulfilment in yours. In the end, girls, that's why I ran for President: because of what I want for you and for every child in this nation, the president elect wrote.

Obama has many plans for children. He wants to have challenging and inspirational schools, school leavers are granted an equal opportunity to go to university, regardless of their family's financial standing; and well-paid jobs with benefits such as health care and a pension plan that will allow them to retire with dignity.

In his letter he also spoke about the vision he had for the United States, beyond the divides of race and region, gender and religion that keep us from seeing the best in each other.

And he spoke of his vision of a United States that has reached beyond the divides of race and region, gender and religion that keep us from seeing the best in each other.