Obama said when he first addressed delegates in Boston, he was filled with faith in America.
Drawing a distinction between the Republican National Convention a week ago, Obama says the nation has been tested by war, recession ... "all manner of challenges."
Yet, "I stand before you tonight to say I am more optimistic about the future of America than ever before.”
Obama jokes about how he's aged in the past eight years.
Obama opens by saying, 12 years ago he first addressed this convention.
America met his two little daughters, who are now grown women, and his brilliant partner, Michelle.
Obama is greeted with loud and sustained cheers, and chants of "Yes, we can!"