Becoming Ron Weasley: Loyal Sidekick
When we first meet Ron Weasley he is alone in a train car. The youngest of six boys. Tucked away. Forgotten about. But then, Harry Potter asks if he can sit with him. From that moment on, everything changes. He is the best mate of the most famous wizard around. This will be both his greatest blessing and his greatest struggle.
In year one, Ron looks into the Mirror of Erised and he sees himself as Head Boy and Gryffindor captain clutching the Quidditch cup. His whole life he’s been overshadowed by his brothers and now by both of his closest friends. All he wants is a bit of glory. Then, in the forest, hiding from snatchers, with a piece of Voldemort’s soul next to his, he breaks and he abandons Harry and Hermione.
But he comes back…
“He must have known I’d want to leave you.”
“No, he must have known you would always want to come back.” –DHs
What is great about Ron is that he is loyal through and through and he’s not afraid to admit when he’s messed up. Both in Goblet and Hallows, Ron has had to ask Harry for forgiveness for abandoning him. Both times Harry takes him back. Both times Ron returns a better, more devoted friend. And the last time, he embraces his spot in the shadows of the limelight.
“Why are they all staring?” demanded Albus as he and Rose craned around to look at the other students.
“Don’t let it worry you,” said Ron. “It’s me. I’m extremely famous.” –DHs
Challenge: Sometimes we are the stars and sometimes we are the supporting cast. What makes Ron great is that he is able to set aside his desire for the limelight to stay loyal to his friend. He is willing to serve rather than be served.
Last week we discussed Gathering Your Trio. One important part of being a member of a golden trio is loyalty and the ability to set aside your desires to serve the others. Sometimes your friends are going to receive things you desire. Are you going to pout about it or are you going to celebrate and stick by their side? Are you going to help them train for the Triwizard Tournament? Hunt down Horcruxes? Save enemies from cursed fire?
And, if you mess up and turn your back on them, are you going to come back? Is your friendship worth more to you than your pride?
Take one deep desire you have today: getting a book deal, winning the match, being accepted to your dream school, etc. Now imagine your friend receiving what you most desire. How does that make you feel? How would Ron react? How will you choose beforehand to react?
Tweet whose loyal sidekick you are going to be. #BHPImYourRon