It has been my honor to support and work with President Barack Obama, a man who has brought courage and character to the presidency. President Obama's strength of character leads him to do the right thing, even when it isn't the easy thing.

Meaning: The back and its burden form an image of carrying responsibilities or difficulty. Read cautiously, the saying can encourage confidence in responding to a particular task; it cannot prove that every load is bearable or that hardship was assigned for someone’s benefit.

Meaning: Cowardice is pictured as avoiding being noticed, especially where a person does not want an action or refusal scrutinised. The saying can question evasiveness, but choosing privacy or feeling afraid does not by itself establish cowardice or wrongdoing.

Meaning: A decisive first step can provide an advantage in a difficult undertaking. Read the battle image figuratively; initiative is not a justification for violence, coercion or rushing past necessary preparation.

Meaning: The estate is pictured as feeling the effects of prolonged absence from necessary work. The saying questions neglected responsibilities, rather than measuring character by early rising or treating sleep, illness, disability or needed rest as a moral failure.