As I re-watch Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, the quote that always stands out to me is, "Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times, if only one remembers to turn on the light."
The quote said by Dumbledore was used towards the beginning of the movie. He is warning Hogwarts in his opening of the school year speech of what is to come in the following weeks and months at school. Even though this is spoken in the Harry Potter universe, I believe it holds much truth into our everyday lives.
Happiness seems virtually unachievable when you're in a dark and difficult place. Nothing anyone says or does can help the hole you've fallen into. What I find magical about the, "if only one remembers to turn on the light" part of Dumbledore's advice, is that you can take it literally or figuratively.
Literally, when a room is too dark or frightening for you to be in, you turn on a nearby light. That way, anything that was physically scaring you is brought to light and can settle the uneasiness within you.
Figuratively, when you are sad, your "light," or your happiness, is overshadowed by the thoughts and pressures of your life. It isn't shining anymore, and you feel as though you'll never make your way out of the darkness again. This is the best time to lean on your family and friends. They can be the lighter of your candle, or the one who can flip on the light switch.
It may not happen immediately, as your flame or light isn't as strong as it once was. Give it time though. Don't ever think that you can't make your way out of the darkness that you're right in the middle of.
Just like the world, day and night comes. Night is dark, scary, and you can't exactly see more than a few steps in front of you. But after awhile, the day comes. The sun shines and you can see which way you need to direct your steps.
Always remember that following the night, there will be day. Following your darkness, there will be light. Remember to turn on your light, or find someone who can help you find it. You're never alone. Don't ever try to conquer your problems on your own.
