Potter Mania

The Harry Potter books are probably the most popular book series that I've ever known of. To me, it's no wonder. J.K. Rowling created a highly imaginative world with witty and fun characters, a complete joy to read in my opinion. The only people that I know who can disagree are those who never read them.

The films got better with each one and this weekend the last film was released in theaters. I'm so glad the film makers took the time to split the 7th book into 2 movies. There is just WAY too much information to cut down to 2 or even 3 hours. But it has been a fun & very entertaining ride.


All over social networks people of all types are expressing their excitement to see this movie, and there are a few who express their disinterest. For many years I've heard complaints from good (Christian) people that the Harry Potter series instigates an interest in witchcraft, sorcery, paganism and hedonism. I suppose it's possible that there is truth in it. Personally, I'd like to hope that most people can read a book or watch a movie and just appreciate it's fictional value as a work of art. Also, it's the 21st century now and if someone mixes a brew of medicinal herbs we know enough about science to know that it's not magic. There is no reason to fear someone who believes differently than ourselves to the extent of burning & hanging. I hope we all know enough about history to have evolved past the point of such atrocities. Besides, the story it's self isn't about these things, it's about a boy who has been abused and neglected and finds out not only that he is special, but is famous among a magical world. There are multiple sweet and inspirational messages woven into the story.


I don't wish to stir up contention or elicit evil, but I think it's interesting that so many people still fear paganism. Why is this? Weather we agree with or understand another person's beliefs or not, I learned long ago that if I am to expect others to respect me for my beliefs I have to respect them for theirs. And there is always a common ground.

If we think about it, somewhere in our own past we all had relatives at some point who practiced pagan beliefs. All of our Christian holidays (practiced in the U.S.) were adopted from pagan holidays. It's just a part of our world's history that I, personally, find fascinating.


So if you're worried that exposing yourself to Harry Potter will corrupt your mind and turn you into a heathen, then you're probably right. Look what it's done to me! Oh, wait... I think I was like this before I discovered the wizarding world. Pray for me!


And to those who love and embrace all things HP, care to share your favorite moment? :)