I was one of many people around the world who waited in line at my nearest Barnes and Noble on July 30, 2016. I waited anxiously for 12:01 a.m. so I could finally buy my own copy of the newest Harry Potter book. With my pink Pygmy Puff, Franklin, in my hands, I sang “Happy Birthday” to Harry when the clock struck twelve. I continued in line with my friends until we all walked out of the store, book in hand.
I read the book expecting to enjoy it (which I did!), and I thought about some of the things that I was reminded of throughout the book. Many messages were things that I had heard all too often in the past. Despite that, I like the reminders and feeling a sort of connection to the characters. The lessons that I noticed while I read the play were certainly valid and important for everyone to hear.
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Your family does not define who you are. Harry and Albus have a less than perfect relationship. However, this isn’t the first time we’ve heard this message in Harry Potter. In Order of the Phoenix, Harry was ashamed to be James’s son because of how cruel he was to Severus. For a while, Harry and Albus were exactly the same in one regard: they sheepishly carried their father’s name. They both learned through their adventures that it is important to establish their own identity rather than live in the shadow of their ancestors. It was important for them to represent themselves before they could represent others.
If you are in conflict with someone, talk to them about it. Harry and Albus had built up tensions between them before it finally exploded in a fit of rage. Clearly, this is something you should avoid with your loved ones. The only way that we can really keep ourselves from speaking out after a lot of built up anger is to acknowledge that there is a problem and it needs resolved.
Sometimes, you don’t get what you expect; you get something better. Albus climbed aboard the Hogwarts Express expecting to stay with Rose and make friends together. Right from the beginning, Albus recognizes something special about Scorpius. Befriending the child of his father’s rival was not part of Albus’ plan, yet he finds an incredible friend in Scorpius. While Albus initially expects a great connection with Hogwarts, he finds himself to be an outcast. Because of his differences from everyone, he is able to strengthen his friendship and be able to find himself better. It is okay for things not to go as you expected, because many times, they will be better.
Don’t be so quick to judge. What? Harry Potter’s son is in Slytherin? Aren’t they pretty much all evil? Why didn't he ask to be in Gryffindor like his father? Shouldn’t he be an incredible wizard capable of flying a broomstick immediately? I expected so much more from him.
These criticisms are all things I thought initially while reading. Albus did not ask for judgment. Slytherins are clever, not evil. People are who they want to be and who they are capable of being. There is no reason to place expectations, especially with no background knowledge. Get to know people or situations before you judge. Period.
Shy people are significant. Scorpius is quiet and only came out of his shell because he was approached by Albus. He follows in Albus’ footsteps. Despite that, he is more level-headed, more compassionate, and more willing to open up about himself. His quiet strength is what allows him to help his friend throughout their journey. Just because he is shy and quiet does not mean he is insignificant. Introverts are important, despite what they may hear from others.
It’s okay to ask people for help. I really can’t explain this one any further without spoiling the play. It’s just something that everyone needs to hear.
Pain is inevitable, but not insurmountable. We all suffer. No one is exempt from a day where nothing goes right. That doesn’t mean you should give up. Every obstacle has a solution. The key is finding it and not allowing that pain to overcome your greatness. Everything happens for a reason. With a little strength, creative thinking, or time, everything will be okay.
