User blog comment:JoePlay/Wizarding World Giveaway/@comment-4184342-20110722005702

Harry Potter was the most influential piece of fiction that I have some across in my life. At the age of 9 I began to read the books, and at 11 two important things happened. I had my first heartbreak when my Hogwarts acceptance letter did not arrive, and more seriously, I met my best friend Libby, She and I instantly bonded over Harry Potter, and today, going on 10 years, we are still best friends and Harry Potter is still part of everyday conversations. These books even helped make my decision of what I wish to do as a profession. "Half-Blood Prince" and the chance to look into Voldemort's past help influence me to study Psychology, and I plan to study Forensic Psychology to fight evil in the real world. Leaving for college was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do, for it meant leaving my best friend for months at a time. As I missed Libby more and more, I found a haven in the series. I joined the Dumbledore's Army of New Paltz, attempted to help organize Quidditch, watched the movies with other friends, and read the books when I should be studying, trying to keep my friend as close as I could without her being there. My older brother asked me why I was still into Harry Potter, and I answered, "I grew up with him. I guess I'm part of the 'Harry Potter' generation. He and I have been friends for a long time." But I realize that this saga is more than that to me, it's how you should live your life, filled with courage and love. I love you Libby, you mean more to me than almost anything. <3