Growing up, Harry Potter wasn't just a series. To me, and to many more I presume, Harry Potter was everything. His story, though dealing with fictional creatures and magic spells, was relatable to my generation. He started school around the same time as readers and as his story progressed, so did ours. As we grew with this story, there was a lot to be learned, and through J.K. Rowling's words, we were able to gain a new perspective of life. Here are some life lessons that Harry Potter was able to fortify within me:

1. We can't change our past, but we have a say in our future

2. Confidence is not synonymous bravery

3. There's always more than what meets the eye

4. The power of love triumphs over all

5. Family isn't always blood - it's the ones that accept you for who you are and love you unconditionally

6. Intelligence is important

7. But there are things are that are equally as important

8. Always, no matter what, have a good heart

9. Be adventurous, even if it involves bending the rules

10. Treat your inferiors as equals

11. Believe nothing of what you hear and half of what you see, because everything is not what it seems

12. Don't mess with moms (they're super protective of their children)

13. Don't judge a book by its cover

14. Teamwork is crucial

15. A life is a life, no matter how insignificant it may seem

16. Listen to those who are often unheard

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

18. Magic is real, and it comes in many forms (including a fictional series)