Harry Potter. The Boy Who Lived
And so the series started, which had us hooked on to Harry and the world of Hogwarts, for more than a decade, and probably, for a lifetime. There was a lot more to Rowling’s world than just some “foolish wand-waving or silly incantations”. Let us take a look at some of the things that we actually learned, while growing up with Harry, Ron, Hermione, and the whole bunch at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
Being unique is not an oddity
Luna Lovegood was a perfect example. If you are unique and that puts people at unease, hold your head high and embrace it.
Even heroes can make mistakes
You don’t need to be perfect to be a hero. Harry always doubted himself, and had normal teenage concerns, but was brave enough to decide what is right. Dumbledore made mistakes in his youth too, but learnt from them, and made sure no one else treads on that path.
You need to think beyond the printed word
Hermione was brave, beautiful, and brainy, but at the same time, a bit narrow minded to discard the theory of Deathly Hallows outright. One should not confine one’s mind to the printed word.
Knowledge comes at a huge cost
Dumbledore lost everyone he loved, and thus gained the wisdom that set him apart.
True love never really dies, and can reform you
Snape never stopped loving Lily, and spent the rest of his life making sure, that she did not die in vain.
Those who have the least, love the most
Weasley’s will always be our favourite family. They were always stuck in sticky financial situations, but that did not stop them from warmly welcoming guests, anytime.
Kindness can change hearts
Hermione was kind to Kreacher though the house elf despised her. She never gave up, and then a change in attitude from Harry and Ron too, had the house elf finally respecting them, and understanding the cause they were fighting for.
Don’t judge a man by his appearance
Hagrid was huge, and a part-giant, but with the kindest heart. He truly was a marshmallow who loved everyone and everything, no matter how vicious it was.
No one is born evil
Draco Malfoy is a perfect example of this one. He might have been on the dark side for a while, because he was expected to be, but eventually chose a path away from it all.
Those who love us, never truly leave us
They are always in our heart, and will be there by our side, whenever we are alone, and remembering them.
Forgive and Reconcile
Aberforth and Albus never truly reconciled, the only two surviving members of the family. The pain was too much, but if shared, they could have fought the demons together.
You don’t have to fight your battles alone
United we stand. You can fight a battle only when you are together. Alone, you will fall.
We can go on and on, and the list will never end. But for now, let us take a backseat. Put on your creative hats, and let us know what did the world of magic teach you. We’re all ears.
