It looks like Barack Obama has too much time on his hands.  First, he makes it a point to personally read 10 letters each day from regular Americans (of course, they are all selected for him).  Second, he actually takes the time to personally respond to some of them.  While this may be considered a noble gesture by some, others may look at it as time that could be more wisely spent in areas like, oh, maybe the Financial Crisis?  In all honesty, though, it is nice to see that Barack Obama takes the time to at least reflect with his supporters ... I highly doubt he reads any letters highly critical of him.  Lets be honest, at least he isn't taking vacation after vacation, like some former presidents.  

While watching the Presidential election night special, Michael Powers decided to write Barack Obama a letter after seeing how Obama interacted with his two daughters.  Powers lost his father to smoking 30 years ago and says that he doesn't want Obama's girls growing up in the same way.

"I think President Obama is the same way with his girls as my dad was with me," Powers said [Chicago Sun Times]

Powers then wrote Obama a quick letter.  The letter contained a photo of Powers father and some words of advice ... Personally, I would feel strange giving someone advice who managed to become president, it seems like he already gets a great deal of valuable advice already. 

Powers told Obama his dad, Benjamin, smoked three packs of cigarettes a day --and later died of lung, throat and bone cancer. ... Powers said Obama needs to be around for Malia and Sasha when they are dating: "Their dad's gotta give some boys those dirty looks." [Chicago Sun Times]

Well, to put it mildly, Powers was a little surprised to receive a reply from Obama.  The reply contained the original photo that Powers sent to Obama, citing that the photo may have sentimental value to Powers, and some quick words of thanks from Obama (see photo gallery).  Funny enough, not a word about smoking.