My dear Gryffindor friend,

I haven’t met many people who don’t want to be a Gryffindor at least a little bit. Perhaps it is because, in all things, you are a protagonist. Your boldness commands the attention of those around you, and whether you intend to or not, you have captured the hearts of many with your courage, determination, and passion for bringing about justice (whatever justice means to you, that is).

There is, of course, always a dark side. For you, it is that the world weighs heavy on your shoulders, and you cannot help but feel as if you are responsible for it. Additionally, those who cannot understand that weight may misjudge you. Sometimes I think you even misjudge yourself. But your desire to lead others to the promised land is almost always pure—or at least well-intentioned. Your exterior may be that of a powerful lion, but inside, you are warm and endearing. I know this because you have let me see the part of you that is hidden to the rest of the world.

thank you

Truly, thank you for your brave heart and bold nerve. Sometimes your boldness is like Harry in the forest, and other times it is like Neville standing up to his friends. I know that a lot of times you don’t see yourself as being bold, courageous, or daring, but I promise that it is always there, guiding all that you do. When others are afraid, you are a rock, steadfast and unnerved by the unknown.

I am also forever indebted to you for your sense of adventure. With you, adventure often begins with your sudden sense of “I have to go right now!” It is not enough for you to be brave; no, with you, bravery is contagious. Thank you for sharing your adventurous spirit with me and for taking me places I couldn’t imagine going on my own.

You are a protector, defender, and fierce supporter. But you are also honest, and you are always willing to tell me when I need corrected (see: baby Neville). You are valiant and kind all at once, and for that, I am grateful.

I’m proud of you

Sometimes, in the midst of chaos, I look around and realize I’ve lost you. But you always come back, and when you do, you always seem to be carrying someone else on your shoulders. You are a person who walks through fire to rescue stragglers, and you don’t care how much it hurts.

Of course, you have your fears, too, but you have such immense resolve in your courage that denying fear feels like the only option. Even when you are scared to death, you plow through challenges, heartbreak, and failure. That’s what makes you a Gryffindor: not that you do not fear, but that you value courage more than you fear your fears.

And, if I’m being honest, I’m proud of you for your annoying success at doing things last-minute. Your sense of adventure translates to your work, school, and home: things get done when they get done, even if that means it happens approximately two minutes before deadline. Why are you so good at that?!

I hope you know…

You are not expected to save the world or to carry it all on your shoulders. No, in fact, it’s rather selfish of you to think that you can. You must accept help, and you must take care of yourself along the way.

You are a natural leader, untamed and commanding. Use that power wisely—otherwise, people will end up crushed beneath your feet and you will have moved on before you’ve had the chance to notice.

Finally, my Gryffindor friend, I hope you know that you are loved beyond measure. Even when you cannot summon the courage, and even when you have been defeated. It is not your bravery that defines you. Rather, it is how you love, and how fiercely you are loved in return.

All my love,

Me

P.S. One hundred points to Gryffindor for just existing. I think that’s how this goes, right? Dumbledore, can I get a consult?

Before you go…

Share this post with a Gryffindor in your life to let them know they are loved! 🙂 Also, make sure to check out my other Harry Potter posts before you go!