Dear Albus Severus Potter,

If you're reading this, you probably think that we—your parents—are horrible people for giving you such an atrocious name. We wanted you to know why.

Albus Dumbledore was the headmaster of Hogwarts when we—again your parents—went to school. Despite seeming larger than life, brave, and powerful, which he was though he would adamantly deny it if asked, Albus was human. And like every human, Albus had his foibles and eccentricities. But he didn't let those things stop him from being the most inspiring wizard of his time. You should also be thankful that we didn't give you his full name because Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore is certainly a mouthful. Albus had a knack for uniting people in times of stress, as you did eleven years ago when you were just a baby. You still do bring us together to this day. We thank you for that and hope you keep this talent your whole life.

Then there is Severus. Severus Snape, though fairly tough on the Gryffindor house—especially your dear old dad—was one of the bravest men we ever knew. Severus gave up everything for the woman he loved and to defy darkness. We are not suggesting you go and get yourself killed—if you do, your mother will kill you—but we do hope you think about Severus's bravery when you go on to do great things like we know you will.

Tomorrow you will be heading to Hogwarts as a first year, and we wanted to share with you the reasons you have the name you have, Albus Severus Potter. We love you, Al. Have a kick-butt first year at Hogwarts.

Love,

Mum and Dad

P.S. Albus Severus was your father's idea. NOT mine. —Love, Mum

P.P.S. If anyone does tease you, tell them it was Harry Potter's idea, and he won't hesitate to kick their asses if need be. —Love, Dad

P.P.P.S. You're a goner, I already told the whole school to tease you, Poopy. —James

P.P.P.P.S. No he didn't. Have fun at Hogwarts, Al. —Lily

P.P.P.P.P.S. We do NOT need to be teaching him words like "ass," Harry. —Love, Mum


P.P.P.P.P.P.S. This story was written by Sammie, but J.K. Rowling owns these characters, names, and related indica.