User blog comment:JoePlay/Wizarding World Giveaway/@comment-4154949-20110716094448

I remember the first time I heard about Harry Potter. It was right after book 3 came out. My aunt who is a librarian shared books 1-3 with me. I remember thinking they were going to read like children's books. Boy, was I wrong!! The stories are not only extremely entertaining, but the lessons they teach are valuable beyond words. After spending years reading book after book and waiting on others to be released, Harry's world and friends became like family to me. I relished each book. I would take my time finishing each one, not wanting it to end. In fact, I read the last book several times, only to stop half way through it. I couldn't bring myself to finish it. I didn't want this magical experience to be over. So, I would pick the book back up and start over at page one. I have laughed and cried my way through the series. I would wait in line at the midnight showing for each movie. I enjoyed watching (reading) Harry grow up and become a strong, confident, and kind person. Even though he didn't have the greatest childhood, he stuck to his morals and stood up for himself and his friends. He treated others with kindness and respect. These stories have inspired kids and adults to read and use their imaginations. I sat in the movie theater opening night to watch Deathly Hallows Part 2. I was nervous. I was was worried for my Hogwarts "friends". I wanted so badly for them to succeed. I caught myself holding my breath numerous times throughout the movie. I felt the tears roll down my cheeks after the battle and I saw that one my favorite couples Lupin and Tonks had lost their lives in the battle. I felt joy at seeing Dumbledore again. In fact, Dumbledore spoke my favorite line in the entire series, "Pity those who live without love." This is a lesson I will continue to use for the rest of my life. I know I will finally finish Deathly Hallows, and once again enjoy this magical world I have come to love. The story isn't over. Harry and his friends will always be there. There are new lessons to be learned and old ones to remember. Anything is possible with a little love, trust, faith, hardwork, hope, and a couple of extraordinary friends.