I wrote this because I think Hogwarts needs more credit for what it's done to many young wizards and witches.
Also I could have made this point of view from any witch/wizard but I think it's important that it was Hermione.
Looking Back
I stare at my reflection in the mirror; my beautiful white dress shining like an angel. I am nervous, but people say you're supposed to be on your wedding day so I take it as a good sign. My mind wonders and I start to think about the past...I guess I have never really thought about before the war, I didn't think I wanted to before now, but as I look at my reflexion, I see the little girl that I once was. She's smiling back at me and I know she's proud...proud of what I've become.
Not in a million years did I ever think I would be what I am today; a hero, an inspiration, a light of hope. I remember my childhood all too well; the teasing, people constantly putting me down; I guess in the end it made me stronger, it helped me fight. The bullies probably don't know this but they helped me survive...not that I'll ever thank them of course. I sometime's laugh to myself, laugh at the bullies who looked down on me and made me feel small, I guess they're the small ones now.
I remember my childhood like it was only yesterday, I was proud of who I was even if people did call me names; I acted like I didn't care so it wouldn't give them the satisfaction, but deep down it hurt. No way would I have ever imagined marrying Ron, he would always look at me with disgust, but now I can only guess he was hiding his feelings. Harry was always nice, I'm pretty sure he never wanted to be my friend in the first place, but he dealt with it and now look where we are. My thoughts turn to Ginny; my soon to be sister-in-law and I smile to myself; she's the nicest, kindest, loving sister I could have ever hoped for and I admire her for having to live with 6 boys...well, men now.
Without the people I have I wouldn't have gotten anywhere, and not to be modest but Voldemort would probably still be in power if I hadn't got into Gryffindor and become best friends with Ron and Harry; It all comes down to Hogwarts...without Hogwarts I am nothing, it has shaped me into everything I am today, as it has for many young wizards and witches, and Hogwarts is the true Hero, not me, not Ron and not Harry; Hogwarts!
So as I stand here in front of the mirror looking at my reflexion and waiting for the ceremony to start, my last thought as a single woman is Hogwarts, and I thank it.
"Hermione, it's about to start!" My best friend said to me whilst grabbing my hand and pulling me down the stairs, her red hair flowing behind her. "I can't believe it's finally time!" screeched Ginny once we had reached the bottom of the stairs and at the back of the isle. I can see the back of Ron's head as I squeeze Ginny's hand and I step onto the magnificent white isle.