User blog comment:JoePlay/Wizarding World Giveaway/@comment-4152431-20110715211254

Harry Potter was there for me when the dog I had known for my entire life suddenly passed away. Harry Potter was there for me when my house was broken into and all of the possessions I valued were gone. Harry Potter was there for me during these not-so-great times, but also during some of the happiest moments in my short life. I remember seeing Chamber of Secrets with my entire immediate family and eating at this barbecue restaurant that no longer exists. I remember meeting people on vacation and befriending them simply because we shared a love for the books. I remember waiting in line for hours with my mom at the release party of The Deathly Hallows (on July 21st, 2007) only to be pleasantly surprised by my dad, who was able to find the book at a grocery store. I remember the excitement I felt as I waited in line for the midnight showings of the final three movies with some of my best friends. I love these books with all of my heart. I also love the movies, even if they aren’t perfect. I love the whole Potter phenomena. It is part of my childhood that I will never forget. It might look like it’s ending, but Harry will always be there for me when I need him the most. And I will make sure those books will be there for my kids when they need them. “Hogwarts will always be there to welcome you home.” — JK Rowling I’d like to take this moment to thank JK Rowling and everyone who worked hard to create this magical phenomena. To think that this all started in the mind of a single brilliant woman greatly inspires me. I’d also like to thank every other dedicated Potter fan in the entire world, because with out them, there would be no magic. These books and films are great because they unite my generation. If we all have one thing in common, it’s that we grew up with these stories. This may be the end of this “era of Potter”, but the magic will never end. These books and films have created memories, and those memories will keep Harry alive in our hearts. Here’s one last quote: “‘Tell me one last thing,’ said Harry. ‘Is this real? Or has this been happening inside my head?’ ‘Of course it is happening inside your head, Harry, but why on earth should that mean that it is not real?’” — DH.35.723

Thousands have said it before me, but I truly feel that Harry Potter is my childhood. That's what it all means to me.