User blog comment:JoePlay/Wizarding World Giveaway/@comment-4174380-20110720104520

Harry Potter is the series of my generation. I didnt find the series until the 3rd book was released. I was an avid bookworm and my librarian recommended it to me. (I really need to go back and thank her!) I devoured all 3 books in a matter of a week. That summer "The Goblet of Fire" was released. I stood in line outside Barnes and Noble for hours waiting to get my hands on it the day it came out. I remember staying up as late as I could. I dont remember falling asleep. I just remember waking up with the book on my lap with the light on in the room still. I couldnt put it down. "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix" was the first midnight book party I ever had been to. It was one of the most memorable days of my life. I got sorted for the first time into Ravenclaw! Since then I have fully embraced my house! I remember reading the book for 14 hours straight. I was 17 when the 7th book came out. They were more then just characters, they were your friends and classmates. Everyone says they remember where they are when significant things happen or famous people die. I remember I was sitting in my living room in the rocking chair when I read Sirius Black fell through the veil, When Dumbledore was killed and when Harry realized Dobby was stabbed. These books taught me so many valuable lessons. Hermione taught me that women can be strong, intelligent and determined. She is such an amazing role model for girls of any age. Harry, Ron, and Hermione taught me a lot about friendship. Theirs was a special one for sure. It had its ups and downs. They had to rely on each other for their lives (chamber of secrets) and yet at times they were so mad at each other (Deathly Hallows). They made mistakes in their friendship but like true friends always made up. There was such loyalty and unconditional love all around. Neville and Luna show that you dont have to be 'hero' to make a difference. They were always in the background doing whatever they could to help Harry. Another huge one is its ok to mourn someone you've lost, but remember what they've taught you and move on. So many important people in Harry's life pass away and as devistating as it is, Harry knows he has a larger mission to complete. I could go on forever but the last and biggest thing Id like to say is Harry Potter taught my generation to be virtuous, to do the right thing even if it means making tough sacrifices. Harry Potter was willing to die to protect his friends and 'family' he created. That shows such love and compassion. over JK Rowling was showing my generation how even in this dark world and dark times that we live in, with all the hatred and wars, that like her characters we came to know and love, we can be the light in our world just like they were in theirs. Theres a little bit of Harry in all of us. I will never forget reading the last page of the last book. Harry will live on forever in my heart.