Spoiler Alert: This article assumes the reader is familiar with the plot of the Harry Potter series. If you aren’t, you should stop reading now, pick up the first book, and have your mind blown by its excellence. Then come back and read this.

I, like many other millennials, spent a good chunk of my early years lost in the wizarding world created by J.K. Rowling, author of the Harry Potter book series. I eagerly anticipated all the new books and movies, I dressed as Harry for Halloween, and to this day, I’m still proud to call myself a Ravenclaw.

The story of Harry Potter did more than just entertain me, though. In many ways, I think the series helped to shape my moral compass. I learned from and admired the virtues of many characters—the wisdom of Albus Dumbledore, the authenticity of Luna Lovegood, and the bravery of Severus Snape.

That’s why, when I heard of Alan Rickman’s passing, it didn’t feel like just another celebrity had died—it was a lot more personal than that. Rickman’s flawless portrayal of Professor Snape was an integral part of my childhood. He brought the man to life in a way I don’t think anyone else could have. In fact, it’s largely because of Alan Rickman that, in a series with a ton of amazing characters, Snape is my favorite. So today, as the world mourns the loss of a great actor, I’ll remember five of the valuable lessons I learned from his most iconic role.

Read the full article at LDSLiving.