Avatar: The Last Airbender is for Adults Too

Thirteen years ago, the world was blessed with a wonderful show. Avatar: The Last Airbender, captured the hearts of many children and teens who sat down to watch the show regularly on Nickelodeon. I,unfortunately, was not apart of that batch of teens that was watching the show. For some odd reason, I tried to watch the show but couldn't get into it. Foolishly, I thought that I was too grown for the show. I left it to my two younger brothers to enjoy.

A few short years ago, I happened across the show again. My brothers were still raving about the show and I felt left out that I couldn't join in on the conversation. So, I hunkered down and sat for three seasons. Binge watching all the episodes was worth all the hours. I was caught in the story of finding and fulfilling destinations, family, traditions, and family. Each episode seemed to have a lesson that would have gone over my head had I seen it all those years ago.

From the get go, I am immediately enraptured by the silliness of the young airbender, Aang, deadpannes and sarcastic nature of Sokka, strong willed Katara, and the ever brooding Prince Zuko. How can you not watch a show about kids trying their best to defeat years end war fueled by the need to be all powerful in the whole world. Kids are daring enough to face their elders and strangers in order set the world straight, while also having fun along the way, if Aang has his way. He usually does.

Aang and Zuko's entertwining destinies caught my eyes and tugged at my heart. I don't think that there is anything closer to the truth than one child going through the process of choosing their destiny. We are all taught to figure out who we will be by the time that we graduate high school and go off to college. Teachers, parents, and relatives constantly ask "what will you be when you grow up?" Family will push for you to follow in their foot steps or what they think is best, unless you are lucky to have the type that want you to figure it out on your own. The decision is yours to choose, follow family's directions or your own. It can be a full fight going against your parents' or family's plans for you, especially when you want to make them happy. Not only would you be fighting them but also your inner self. Then there's the whole fulfilling your destiny part. When you know what your destiny is, it is hard to continue with it when you are not ready to. Fear can cripple one from succeeding. Their path may take longer than anticipated but the journey could be worth the trip if you get to your destination.

Next to the kids, the wonderful elders are the next best thing. Like many other fans, Uncle Iroh has my heart. The patient, loving uncle gave gems that can go over your head like they did Zuko's. It takes time to understand. Your body and mind will need to be able to receive his teachings and many others. If you are interested in his beautiful gems, I advice to read the Avatar: Uncle Iroh's 10 Most Inspiring Quotes and drink tea in his honor as you enjoy his words.

Now, if you are rolling your eyes at all the goody good two shoes that I have mentioned, take a look at the Fire Nation's baddest princess, Azula. She is gifted like her grandfather. While the girl is absolutely insane, she certainly knows how to capture the screen. When she gets together with her two best friends, Mai and Ty Lee, it is almost as if they are indestructible. Add Prince Zuko to the mix and the four are a joy to watch. Sure people get hurt but the dynamics are sensational. No where near normal but quite sensational.

At this point, I know I haven't stated clearly enough why this show is better to watch as an adult other than not being able to understand the depth of the messages the show has that could possibly go over your head as a child. My love for it comes from the pleasure of watching it as an adult that has a destiny given by the universe and the trip is full of trials but will be worth it. Of course, mine doesn't have to do with saving the world, yet, but it is worth my life to triumph.

Netflix has brought Team Avatar back to our lives. Take the time to fall in love with the story and the kids that save the world.