Dear Ron,

I know that you would be so angry with me for doing this, but I also know that you would be so angry if I left without an explanation.

I'm not going to tell you you're like a brother to me because you aren't like one. You are my brother, Ron. Meeting you on the train in first year was the best luck I've ever had in my life. Taking me into your family and sharing something so precious like that with me was life-changing. Your friendship has gotten me through some of the toughest moments in my life. I wouldn't have the strength to do what I know I have to do at the final battle with Voldemort if it weren't for you. I know that you'll be alive to look after everyone for me. I'm not going to ask you to do that because I know that you would have done it no matter what.

I can't even entertain the idea that you won't survive this war, so it's on you to make sure everyone is all right. Hermione and Ginny; they are so important to me. I never fully thanked you for your being cool with me and Ginny. You should know that I really love her, Ron. She will never just be a girl to me. Ginny was my future. You have to make sure she moves on. I don't think I can live with anything less. Or die, I guess.

And there was never anything between me and Hermione, you've got to know that. She's my sister. I love her, but not the way you do. You should go be with her (I told her the same damn thing). The two of you complete one another in the same way I felt that Ginny completed me. Just go be happy with her. Have a family. Name a kid after your dead friend. (Sorry; I'm trying to lighten the mood here a bit.)

I'm not angry with you for leaving me and Hermione. You might think that I hold some sort of grudge against you, but I don't. I'm so sorry that I'm leaving you with a mess on your hands. I wish I could just end this war right now, but I know that that's impossible.

You're the best family a person could ask for, Ron. I love you.

Love, Harry