My all time favorite book/movie series is the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling. I re-read the series at least once a year, and each time I read those seven books I always learn something more. Many don't realize that the Harry Potter series has a deeper message to offer than a fantasy story about magic. There are many hidden themes that can be applied to everyday life in the Muggle world. Below are 10 quotes from the series that I believe are words worth living by.

1. "It is our choices that show us what we truly are, far more than our abilities." -Albus Dumbledore

We all have unique talents and we all have strength and weaknesses. But what's possibly even more important are the decisions we make in life. Sometimes the right choice isn't the easy choice, but some days we all have to choose between what is right and what is easy.

2. "We've all got both light and dark inside of us. What matters is the part we choose to act on, that's who we really are." - Sirius Black

As humans, we all make mistakes. It's in our nature. No human being is perfect. Don't be worried that people will only see the dark inside you. The light inside you will always win if you let it.

3. "It does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live." - Albus Dumbledore

All too often, we tend to drown in our sorrows and feel sad that there are certain things out of our reach. We must remember to live life for the moment and to never take a day for granted. Tomorrow is not guaranteed, so don't let today go to waste.

4. "Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light." - Albus Dumbledore

There are times where life itself seems impossible, but in these times, it is important to think of all the blessings in your life. Even the tiniest ray of light can fill a space of darkness.

5. "Working hard is important. But there is something that matters more: believing in yourself." - Harry Potter

You can study as hard as you want, but if you don't believe in yourself, your hard work will not pay off. Working is just half the battle. The other half is knowing that you worked hard and knowing that you can succeed.

6. "What's coming will come, and we'll meet it when it does." - Hagrid

We all have to go through things in life that are said or unpleasant in some way. It is inevitable. Do not spend your time worrying about what may come. As Hagrid said, what will come will come. And when it does, just do all you can to keep your head up.

7. "Do not pity the dead. Pity the living. And above all, pity those without love." - Albus Dumbledore

We all have felt loss at some point in our lives. But those who have left the Earth are in a better place now. Do not feel sorry for them. Instead, you should feel sorry for those who live without knowing what love is, because they are empty inside. Love your neighbors and love yourself. No one should have to live without love.

8. "Words are, in my not so humble opinion, our most inexhaustible source of magic. Capable of both inflicting injury and remedying it." - Albus Dumbledore

Bullying is an ongoing problem within the youth of today's society. The words we say impact others more than we may think. So instead of using your words to inflict pain, use your words to bring love and joy to those around you.

9. "It matters not what someone is born, but what they grow to be." - Albus Dumbledore

A family name or family wealth (or lack thereof), means nothing compared to what someone can become in the future. Every person has the potential to be great, and no one should let themselves be knocked down due to a situation they were born into. You have the power to change your life if you so choose.

10. "We must try not to sink beneath our anguish, Harry, but battle on." - Albus Dumbledore

It doesn't do to drown in anger or hurt. Though it may be hard, pushing through the pain is an important key to getting through life. Every person has to push through ups and downs. Life is a rollercoaster. We must learn to move the mountains in front of us.

I will always love the Harry Potter series. J.K. Rowling will always be my favorite author. I cannot wait until I can read these stories to my children. As they grow, they will learn to recognize the little life lessons and messages that J.K. Rowling and her characters have taught us. Harry Potter is magical in more ways than one. I truly believe that everyone can learn a lot from these books and that reading them can make you a better human being.

"Hogwarts will always be there to welcome you home." J.K. Rowling