Alan Rickman was a man of many faces. The characters he played ranged from misunderstood to presidential, but no matter the role, Rickman never failed to show us what true talent and vigilant passion look like.
His monotone rasp radiated from the silver screen in one of his most renowned roles, Professor Severus Snape in the "Harry Potter" franchise. This role is one that redefined heroism, teaching us things we never knew we needed reminding of.
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No one is all good or all bad. Although it is hard to internalize, your humanity cannot be defined by the best or worst thing you have ever done. Regardless of things you have done in the past, labels you have been given by others, or the cards life has dealt you, good or bad is far too simple an adjective to describe the complexity of who you are.
The most loyal of allies may not seem like they are on your side. Severus Snape was a fiercely loyal ally even when he seemed like villain. Everything he did for Dumbledore, Harry, and to respect the death of his love was nameless. Never forget that you may have anonymous guardians everywhere. Sometimes it is when life feels like it’s against you, like everything is going wrong and there isn’t one person on your team, that a person is working tirelessly for you and your well-being.
What the world sees is a not always reality. Snape taught us that sometimes heroes don’t wear capes or even a smile. He spent his whole life devoted to protecting a painful reminder of unrequited love and was labeled a villain. While there are obvious signs of foul play in life, never forget that you will never know every thought, intention, or reason behind a person’s actions. Similarly, never let the way you may be perceived stop you from doing what is right. Sometimes, heroes may be disguised as villains.
Love is most powerful when it is unconditional. Snape was in love with no intention other than to simply love; he didn’t even require to be loved in return. This love, this unequivocal strength, gave him the power to overcome bitterness, heartbreak, and opportunity for revenge. There is no greater force than a love that blindly reacts, regardless of what it gets in return.
True love will last. Always.
