For the first time, the public can now read the private letter from former President George W. Bush to his successor former President Barack Obama. 

The letter, which was released Thursday, was obtained by ABC News from the National Archives and Records Administration. It has become a tradition for the outgoing-president to leave behind a handwritten letter for his successor. Bush's letter to Obama appeared to be both warm and encouraging. 

"No matter what comes, you will be inspired by the character and compassion of the people you now lead," Bush wrote. 

The National Archive also released a letter written by former President Bill Clinton to Bush in 2001. It's likely that Obama will leave behind a similar letter to President Donald Trump.