My dear Slytherin friend,

I’m sorry you get such a bad rap. We all know that Slytherin wasn’t exactly portrayed favorably in Harry Potter, but that’s not your fault. And, although it is often overlooked, Slytherin is home to some of the bravest wizards of all time, including one majorly unsung hero, Regulus Black. All four houses have their downfall, but in yours, hurricane-force ambition tends to make the potential fall all the more dramatic.

Your determination to succeed is both inspirational and, admittedly, terrifying. Your goals are wild, terribly ambitious, and intimidating to the rest of the world. But I see all the work you put into those dreams, and I know you’re up for the challenge.

Thank you

Your unbreakable drive has shown me that the bruises we get chasing a good life are absolutely worth the pain. Often, you only let the world see your successes. But you’ve shown me behind the scenes, and I know how much time, energy, and heart you put into getting where you’re going. Thank you for letting me see the building process, and thank you for trusting me to walk beside you in the chase.

Watching you work your way toward your aspirations has opened my eyes to the power that I possess to make an impact in the world, if only I am determined to try. On a daily basis, your striving inspires me to aim higher and stretch further. You live as if the whole world were in your hands, but you don’t take that power lightly. You hold it close to your chest as you reach for the stars, and I am made better for knowing how deeply you care.

Thank you, too, for stepping up and doing what is necessary to make things happen. Your leadership is vital to keeping this world turning.

I’m proud of yoU

Nobody locks their sights on a prize harder than you, and nobody is more determined to get there, either. Although that sneaky, sly nature can get you into trouble, it usually serves a great and valuable purpose. You genuinely care about others, and considering you aren’t evil, those ambitions and dreams that guide you are actively creating a better world. I am proud of you for how you chase your dreams.

I am proud of you, too, for the way your passion ignites passion in others. You are unafraid of leading people toward goals and places you find worthy of your time. This power is an immense burden, but you bear it with grace and dignity. As a result, you empower others simply by being yourself.

Also, 100 points to Slytherin for representing one of the world’s most misunderstood creatures. You are just as valuable to this ecosystem as the snakes, and don’t you let anyone say otherwise. (Also, I’m sorry basically all of the internet’s Slytherin GIFs are awful…I tried.)

I hope you know…

Your ambition, drive, and cunning are not curses. You are not a bad guy; in fact, you are one of the most influential people in my life and undoubtedly in the lives of all who know you.

In the pursuit of your dreams, I hope you know that you are allowed to pause for air. You are allowed to take care of yourself, and you absolutely should. Running yourself empty is not a means to an end worth justifying, even if it will get you there eventually.

Above all else, my Slytherin friend, I hope you know that you are loved. In your weaknesses, failures, and greatest achievements. You are loved so deeply, not even your biggest aspiration could compare.

With love,

Me

Before you go…

Share this post with a Slytherin in your life to let them know they are loved! 🙂 Also, make sure to check out my other Harry Potter posts before you go!