User blog comment:JoePlay/Wizarding World Giveaway/@comment-4172911-20110720032236

Dumbledore gave me hope when times were dark. He was a father I never had who loved like I could only imagine. Harry embodied the heart of me, and made me know that I wasn't alone in feelings I felt. He gave me strength to keep fighting on when I wanted to give up. And he helped make emotions real and into words where I myself couldn't. Through these books, I saw what I wanted to be and realized to not give up on the person I was already becoming. The words that flow through those pages have helped me face pain and sorrow, has helped me handle situations, and have guided my sense to believe in good and love. Love comes in many shapes and sizes, in different forms and with different sacrifices - as well as losses. But so does evil. People are motivated by different things, and people can be frightened and lost. Others need the occasion to rise to their greatest strength, while others still just need the encouragement and belief of others in them. Through these books, I regained such knowledge and strength and hope when fighting in darkness myself. Sirius may have been reckless, but he wanted to be there for Harry as much as I have ever wanted with friends. Ginny was fearless and strong, but understanding of circumstances. Who couldn't relate to the magic that Jo Rowling placed into our lives?

I found purpose and strength in these books. Though beautiful and inspiring, emotional and exciting when in the bright times of one's life, these books were a crutch, a strong hold a strength in the darkest of times as well. Dumbledore's words moved me, Hermione's thirst flowed through me, Draco's vulnerability encouraged me, Luna's hope even with her oddness gave me confidence, and Harry's strength gave me strength.

Though many people have loved these books and will forever cherish them, I hope they provide strength and hope in darkness as well as joy, where few things in life can possibly do when you are lost and alone and needing "proof" that you will overcome.