Today, I’m revealing another side of myself: I am a huge Potterhead (along with my husband, who is an even bigger fan). This won’t surprise anyone who read my post about crocheting (The One with the Harry Potter Crochet Set), but I wanted to expand on the topic a bit.
I’m actually as old as the Harry Potter world—the first book was published just days after I was born, which I think is pretty amazing. I don’t remember exactly when I first read the books or saw the movies, but I know I instantly fell in love with the world J.K. Rowling described so vividly. It’s by far my favorite fictional universe, even though for a long time I claimed other books as my favorites. Now, I don’t really have a single “number one” book (I have a whole list), but I separate books from the worlds they create—and the Harry Potter universe is still my number one.
I started reading fanfiction about 15 years ago, and I still do from time to time. They’re my go-to when I feel sad, need cheering up, or just want to escape from everyday worries like work. And it still works like magic. I’m always surprised by how many fanfics are genuinely well-written and high quality. That’s one of the reasons I love the Harry Potter universe so much - because of these stories. When I first started reading them, it was quite popular. We’d discuss them at school, recommend our favorites, and so on. Later, I felt a bit embarrassed about reading fanfiction. I’m not even sure why - maybe I thought I was too old and should be reading something “better”? That was the end of high school and the beginning of college for me. Looking back, I realize it was probably just a phase of wanting to feel more “adult” (which, honestly, isn’t as fun or easy as we imagined - false advertising from parents and grown-ups everywhere!). Eventually, I rediscovered fanfiction, enjoyed it again without shame, and it made me happy. I’m trying to apply this lesson to all aspects of my life: it’s my life, it’s authentically me, so why should I hide it or be ashamed? It’s still a work in progress.
My love for Harry Potter was also a big connection between my husband and me (maybe I’ll write more about how we got together and our relationship another time). One of our first vacations together was to London, where we visited some Harry Potter sites and bought a few books. Years later, we returned for our honeymoon, expanding the trip to all of Britain to see as many Harry Potter filming locations as possible, including the Warner Bros. Studio. But that’s a story for another post, because it was truly amazing and deserves its own write-up. We also own a LEGO Hogwarts Castle and a LEGO Hedwig. I wear my Harry Potter scarf in winter, we use our Harry Potter mugs (sadly, only two for now) with Hogwarts house coasters, and I even painted a Hogwarts castle on a mug for my husband at a pottery class years ago. We have huge Harry Potter-themed posters in our dining room. It probably sounds like a lot, but that’s the end of the list (for now - I’m sure we’ll collect more Harry Potter things in the future).
My husband also introduced me to the Harry Potter audiobooks in English, which really improved my language skills and helped me get used to reading and listening in English. It became a lovely way to spend time together, especially on road trips. Stephen Fry’s narration is fantastic - his voice and clear accent made everything so enjoyable and easy to understand.
We’ve also attended a “Harry Potter in Concert” event for The Sorcerer’s Stone. It was incredible! The film was screened as usual, but the background music was performed live by a professional orchestra. Before and after, people in costume (sadly, no actors) posed for photos, and of course, we took one too. That reminds me of another Harry Potter item we own - a vinyl record of “The Complete Harry Potter Film Music Collection.” It sounds magical on our gramophone.
P.S. For anyone wondering, I am a Hufflepuff.
Embracing Your Authentic Self—Lessons from Harry Potter
One of the most powerful messages in the Harry Potter series is the importance of embracing who you truly are, even when it feels difficult or different. Characters like Luna Lovegood and Neville Longbottom embody this lesson. Luna, with her quirky beliefs and unique outlook, never lets others’ opinions change her. She stands firm in her identity, teaching us that authenticity is a strength, not a weakness. Neville, once shy and overlooked, grows into a courageous leader by staying true to his values and believing in himself.
Hagrid’s words, “I am what I am, an’ I’m not ashamed,” capture this spirit perfectly. Throughout the books, we see that the wizarding world values individuality and self-acceptance—qualities that help the characters overcome adversity. The series reminds us that real magic happens when we stop hiding and start celebrating our true selves, no matter what others think.
Inspirational Quotes from Harry Potter - and Why They Matter
The Harry Potter series is filled with quotes that inspire hope, courage, and self-belief. Here are a few of the most memorable, along with why they resonate so deeply:
“Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.” - Albus Dumbledore
This quote reminds us that hope and positivity are choices we can make, even when life feels overwhelming. It encourages us to seek light in every situation.
“It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.” - Albus Dumbledore
Dumbledore’s wisdom teaches us that our actions and decisions define us, not just our talents or circumstances. It’s an empowering reminder that we have agency over our lives.
“We’ve all got both light and dark inside us. What matters is the part we choose to act on. That’s who we really are.” - Sirius Black
This line speaks to the complexity of human nature and the importance of choosing kindness and goodness, even when it’s hard.
“It does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live.” - Albus Dumbledore
Dumbledore reminds us of the importance of living in the present rather than getting lost in “what-ifs” or regrets. Dreams and aspirations are important, but we must not let them prevent us from enjoying and engaging with the life happening right now. This message is especially poignant for anyone who tends to overthink or dwell on the past.
“It takes a great deal of bravery to stand up to our enemies, but just as much to stand up to our friends.” - Albus Dumbledore
True courage isn’t just about facing those who oppose us; it’s also about having the integrity to confront those we care about when they’re wrong. This quote teaches us about the importance of honesty, even when it’s difficult, and that standing up for what’s right isn’t always easy or comfortable.
“We must all face the choice between what is right and what is easy.” - Albus Dumbledore
This quote captures a central theme of the series: the ongoing struggle to do what’s morally right, even when the easier path is tempting. Dumbledore’s wisdom here is a call to integrity and courage, urging us to choose the harder, better path - even when no one is watching.
“The truth. It is a beautiful and terrible thing, and should therefore be treated with great caution.” - Albus Dumbledore
Dumbledore acknowledges the power and complexity of truth. While truth can bring freedom and clarity, it can also be painful. This quote is a reminder to handle truth with care and sensitivity, both for ourselves and others.
“If you want to know what a man's like, take a good look at how he treats his inferiors, not his equals.” - Sirius Black
Sirius teaches us that true character is revealed in how we treat those who have less power or status than we do. Kindness, respect, and empathy toward everyone - especially those who can offer us nothing in return - are the marks of a good person.
These quotes endure because they speak to universal experiences - struggles with self-doubt, the search for hope, the challenge of making good choices, and the journey toward self-acceptance. They encourage us to be brave, kind, and true to ourselves, making the Harry Potter series not just a story, but a lifelong source of inspiration.
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