Harry Potter: of Pensieves and Portkeys

 

Was binge watching Harry Potter over the Chinese New Year weekend, and thought that the ideas of the pensieve and portkeys were useful metaphors to think about conversations we might want to have when working through the process of grief. 

The Pensieve Conversation: Tapping on memories for healing

I sometimes find, and I am sure you know the feeling, that I simply have too many thoughts and memories crammed into my mind.... At these times... I use the Pensieve. One simply siphons the excess thoughts from one's mind, pours them into the basin, and examines them at one's leisure.

Albus Dumbledore

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

Share a positive memory about someone that you respect (can be someone who has passed on or still alive).

1. Identifying the event
   1. Ask questions about the specifics of this memory (e.g. when was this, how old were you, where were you?)

 

2. Identifying connections to the memory
   1. Why is this memory important for you?
   2. Why did you choose this memory?
   3. How did this memory contribute to the person you are today?
   4. How does this memory show what you appreciate about this person?
   5. What parts of this person do you value from this memory? Why?
   6. Who else would value this memory other than you?

 

3. Legacy building
   1. Are there things that you are doing now (or even certain values you practice) that have been influenced by what was shown in this memory?
   2. After sharing this memory, are there new things that you would do in your life, or things that you would continue doing?
   3. Who else in your life would benefit from this memory? How would they benefit?

 

 

Using Quotes as Portkeys

"Almost any inanimate object can be turned into a Portkey. Once bewitched, the object will transport anyone who grasps it to a pre-arranged destination."

In this case, how can words we hear from our deceased loved ones help transport us into old and new experiences. 

1. What are some important quotes that you might remember from someone dear to you?
2. Why is this quote meaningful for you?
3. Are there other people who would also appreciate this quote? Who are they, and how have they benefitted from this quote?
4. How did this person share this quote with you?
   1. What are some stories of how you learnt this quote from this person?
5. How did this person decide on using this quote with you? (if you could guess)
6. How has the quote (or advice) helped or supported you in challenging times?
7. How would this quote support you in any upcoming challenges? (could you give some details?)
8. Are there people whom you would share this quote with? How would they benefit from this quote?
9. What would the person (who gave you the quote) say if she/he knew about this conversation?