Gryffindor

     

      When Hogwarts was made, it was founded by four witches and wizards. Each founder created his or her own house. Gryffindor house gets its name from the famous Godric Gryffindor. His chocolate frog collectible card says that he was "the most accomplished dueller of his time, an enlightened fighter against Muggle discrimination, and the first owner of the celebrated Sorting Hat." Gryffindors are known for being brave, daring, and chivalrous.

 

      Gryffindor is perhaps the most popular house in Hogwarts because the main trio, Harry, Ron, and Hermione, are all from Gryffindor! When Harry tried on the Sorting Hat, the hat told him he was destined for great things and that he would become a powerful wizard. It considered placing him in Slytherin house. Knowing that Slytherin produced the most dark wizards, Harry begged the hat not to place him in Slytherin. Naturally, he was placed in Gryffindor! We are all able to do great things and we all have talents. It is up to us how we decide to use them. So use your abilities for good!
      Hermione had a similar experience with the Sorting Hat. In Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, she reveals that the Sorting Hat considered sorting her into Ravenclaw (and we all know that she had the brains for it!) but it eventually decided to place her in Gryffindor. In Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, she definately seems like an obnoxious know-it-all who no one could be friends with. However, throughout the books, she does several daring acts of courage. This proves that house stereotypes are wrong; people think that Gryffindors are sometimes idiotic and boastful because of their daring tendencies and nerve, but Hermione is not like this at all. She is humble, kind, smart, and brave!
     Ron Weasley was quickly sorted into Gryffindor without any hesitation. All of the Weasleys are Gryffindors; courage runs in the family! From the very beginning of the series, Ron shows his courage by doing risky things like playing life-size wizard's chess, facing a three headed dog, and fighting a troll! However, everyone has a weakness. Ron is absolutely terrified of spiders. He teaches us that no one is perfect!
     Gryffindors are brave. Gryffindors are bold. Gryffindors are daring. But what are you? Have you ever faced your fears? The Bible says in Joshua 1:9, "Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” God tells us not to be afraid. I challenge you to embrace your inner Gryffindor; try something new that you have never done before! It might be trying a new hobby, or even making a new friend! You never know; you might like it. Be bold!