An epiphany I just had...

[u/Agent_Aphelion]

I've lost count of how many times I've watched this series. I'm 27 now and just realized what this scene TRULY means (I'm sure many people knew this already), perhaps because I've been feeling the same way recently.

The skill of redirecting lightning is more than just Zuko feeling optimistic and confident that he has a new skill to take on his sister. It's like a physical representation of Zuko being able to release all of that hate, frustration, and built up emotion that's growing inside him from all of the hard times he's been through, and will go through. I realize he basically says this, but I finally realized the deeper meaning behind this scene. I'm not the most articulate when it comes to my writing, so hopefully the message has been conveyed well enough.

[u/dwkuzyk]

That is why this is one of the greatest shows of all time.

There are layers of meaning and subtext in basically every episode.

Despite it being a 'kid' show, the issues with abuse and shame are adult level stuff that often take years (and many rewatches) to fully grasp.