Semi-Daily Scribbles

Harry Potter’s tale is the classic Hero's Journey of which I never tire. Whenever I visit the story, some new detail or idea reveals itself that I had not previously absorbed. Because of my affection for Harry & Company, I have fun with problem solving by asking the question: "What Would Harry Do?" I also daydream about how I would have fared undergoing those harrowing trials while still in school and discovering who I am. One of my favorite opportunities for reflection found in the books is the Mirror of Erised that Harry stumbles upon in his first year. Feeding off the very life force of the one who gazes into it, the mirror plays back the deepest, most intimate desires that rattle around in the reptilian recesses of our minds.

Just like the allure and obsessive pull of the mirror itself, I wonder what Erised's glass would show me? Something fabulous, I’m sure, to feed my needy ego. But would I know it’s all an illusion, or would I choose to dwell inside a distorted projection of my heart’s desire? I’m not so sure it would be easy to walk away from fantasy.

I like to think that the looking glass Harry is gazing into today is showing something true and beautiful. He may carry battle scars still, but saying good morning to 30 with family and friends at his side is worth fighting for, be it in the realm of magic or Muggles.