Dear First Love,

You taught me that I did not have to leave my room to find adventure. I have lived in an old magical castle, fought with dragons, made friends with elves, broken out of a high-security prison, been the #1 most wanted, and saved the world while I was at it.

More than that though, you taught me how to be strong in the face of opposition when the odds are stacked against me. You taught me that it is okay to need help—there is no need to do everything on my own and friends are important.

You taught me that sometimes not all is at it seems. You taught me that everyone is a little bit crazy and a little bit brilliant, so I should never judge on first impressions (or even second ones) because maybe I do not know the whole story yet, and everyone has a story.

You taught me that adults are not perfect and that they make mistakes, but I should forgive them because they are trying and mean well (love you mom, dad). Now that I am practically an adult myself, I especially appreciate that lesson.

You taught me that the only true failure is giving up, so when I stumble or fall, I make sure to stand back up on my feet; I might even use the help of friends to do it. You taught me that where I am going is only as important as the people that are there—it is not the place or destination that matters; it is the people.

So many lessons. Not enough time. You mean a lot to me because you helped me find my feet when I was drifting. You have been a true friend, a true love, and you will always have a place in my heart.

Thank you, "Harry Potter."

Always,

A Grateful Reader