Former US President George W Bush Debuts as Motivational Speaker

Former U.S. President George W. Bush has made his debut as a motivational speaker, encouraging listeners to stand by their beliefs and live every day to the fullest.

He spoke Monday in Fort Worth, in the southwestern state of Texas to more than 11,000 people at the "Get Motivated!" business seminar.

Mr. Bush, who experienced wild swings in approval ratings during his two presidential terms, told the crowd that popularity is fleeting and "not real." He encouraged them to stick by their principles, noting he stands by the decisions he made while in office.

Event organizers declined to disclose how much the 43rd U.S. president was paid for the appearance.

Other speakers at Monday's event included former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani and former Secretary of State Colin Powell.

Powell praised his former boss, saying Americans are safer now than before the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks because of Mr. Bush.

The Fort-Worth Star-Telegram newspaper reported tickets sold for $225 at the door, but said most attendees paid far less, with many seats selling for $4.95 each.


Some information for this report was provided by AP.