5 iconic Albus Dumbledore quotes that still inspire today

Outside of the titular character Harry Potter and the main antagonist Voldemort, Albus Dumbledore may be the most recognizable character in the Harry Potter franchise. His long beard has become almost synonymous with wizardry now. But, it was not just his look that made him stand out in the series. It was also his personality.

Dumbledore was incredibly wise and inspirational. He also took Harry under his wing often, helping guide him through ambiguity and letting him learn through his own. His guidance helped Harry get through the toughest parts of his life, and his love and tender care nurtured not just Harry but all the students at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

His advice and powerful words were not only useful for the fictional characters in the book and movie franchises. They translate to the real world as well, and are words all of us could live by. With that in mind, we have formulated the 5 best Albus Dumbledore quotes of the series.

5. "While we may come from different places and speak in different tongues, our hearts beat as one."

This Dumbledore quote may be especially relevant in today's cultural climate, and a bit ironic given what has since come out about the controversial author. With hate, bigotry, racial, political, and cultural prejudice permeating not just the country but the world, it is so important to remember this powerful quote. We are all human, with the ability to love one another despite external differences. Spread love, not hate.

4. "Numbing the pain for a while will make it worse when you finally feel it."

Dumbledore is an important figure, not just as a way to inspire, but as a person who pushed people through the hardest moments as well. In this case, he gives us an important reminder that we cannot hide our feelings, ignore them, or push them away. Feelings, emotions, hurt, and pain are all natural emotions: ones we need to experience and process so that we can move forward healthier.

3. "It matters not what someone is born, but what they grow to be."

This quote by the wise wizard touches upon some similar themes to the first on the list. It is also an interesting statement on the scientific nature versus nurture argument. In the end, though, it is a poignant reminder that no matter what society throws at us from where, how, or what we are born, we can still rise and become someone amazing. Background and history mean nothing to the here and now.

2. "It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities."

People are born with certain traits and characteristics naturally. That does not mean people cannot make growth through hard work and practice, and those strengths can become something incredible. But in the end, simply having those abilities is not enough. You must know what to do with them, and the choices you make will define you. Strive for the good, the right, the moral, and do not use your abilities for harm or self-gratification.

1. "It takes a great deal of bravery to stand up to our enemies, but just as much to stand up to our friends."

While the bystander effect is real, Dumbledore reminds us that speaking out can feel easier when the relationship with those we speak out against is low stakes. It is harder, though, when it is a loved one who is doing wrong or causing harm. In that case, the fear of losing someone we love can outweigh the good of standing up to the wrongs. It is the latter that requires the greatest bravery and causes the greatest changes.