As a self-confessed geek, I thought I’d take the opportunity to write about an aspect of geekdom that has not only become part of my life, but has helped me to accept and take pride in aspects of my personality. So much so, It’s become integral to my identity.
I came to the Harry Potter books as a teacher, my first experience of the books was when I was covering a class and I was asked to continue the book at storytime.
As I made my way through the books, much was made of the different houses, but obviously Gryffindor and Slytherin were at the forefront. Great respect was given to the clever Ravenclaws, but there was definitely a feeling that Hufflepuff was the least appreciated house.
The Hufflepuff common room is the only one Harry never visited, Draco Malfoy was particularly unkind, and the general impression was that Hufflepuff was the house equivalent of being picked last for the team.
When Pottermore was created, and I was sorted into Hufflepuff, I can remember feeling a bit underwhelmed. I did accept however, that it was probably pretty accurate! It’s only really been as time has gone on and I recognised more and more traits in myself, that I revelled in my Hufflepuff identity.
I’m a self-confessed Mrs Yes, which is not always a good thing, and I am aware that there are times when I need to take care of myself more, but I’m actually really proud that I am kind. That is not to say I think I’m perfect, quite the contrary, sometimes I’m grumpy, sometimes I don’t want to help out, but the foundation of my personality is someone who tries to do the right thing. Sometimes I’m soft hearted, but when it comes to the people and issues I care about, I can be surprisingly fierce.
That to me, is what belonging to Hufflepuff means. I think it’s important.
I’m mixing my metaphors slightly, but I’m really fond of this Disney quote, and I think it’s about as Hufflepuff as you can get.
Who doesn’t want a little bit of magic in our lives?
‘The Hufflepuffs, virtually to a person, stay – as do the Gryffindors. Now, the Gryffindors comprise a lot of foolhardy and show-offy people… You know, there’s bravery and there’s also showboating, and sometimes the two go together. The Hufflepuffs stayed for a different reason. They weren’t trying to show off, they weren’t being reckless. That’s the essence of Hufflepuff House.’ (JK Rowling, Pottermore – talking about the Battle of Hogwarts)
I remember reading that quote and it being quite a revelation to me. I realised that being kind and doing the right thing was something I had a right to be a little proud of. In the past I had been told I was weak, because I tried to be kind, because I cared. Hufflepuff House reminded me it was a strength. My soft heart could be an asset.
(Edit: Unfortunately, in recent years, I cannot ignore that JK Rowling has completely forgotten that sentiment. I considered going back and deleting that quote, but it meant something to me at the time. Hopefully one day, she’ll understand that woman is not a term that is exclusive. In the meantime, let me be clear. There is no question – Trans women are women, trans men are men, and all people deserve fair treatment and kindness in their struggles – we create our own identity.)
In our world today, when so much is about adoration and self importance, the ability to put ourselves in the shoes of others mustn’t be lost. I tell my daughters regularly that I don’t care if they grow up to be ‘important’, or rich, I care very much that they be honest and kind; and that’s definitely not always easy. Standing up for the things we care about is sometimes tough, but it matters.
My eldest daughter was also sorted into Hufflepuff, not to say we’re the same, at all, she is an amazing individual, and completely her own person, but strangely, as she’s grown into a beautiful young woman, it’s sometimes our Hogwarts house that binds us. I’ll do something, or she’ll say something, and we’ll just look at one another and say “such a Hufflepuff …” and smile.
As you can imagine, we’re both very happy that the character of Newt Scamander (or Eddie Redmayne), from the brilliant film Fantastic Beasts and where to find them has become our very own champion! All I need now is that vintage Hufflepuff scarf… 
After all, a house with Cedric Diggory, Nymphadora Tonks and Newt Scamander all as members must be a good thing.
And so, I shall continue to Huffle along, because the world never got sadder for a little more caring.
(All images found via Pinterest- I will link the pages as best I can)
For more information about How to be supportive in trans issues, please look at the links below… (found via mermaids uk)
https://mermaidsuk.org.uk
https://www.stonewall.org.uk/
https://www.beaumontsociety.org.uk
https://www.theproudtrust.org
BewitchedBB Vintage 