James Thompson
Prompt: IN THIS LIFE OR THE NEXT
Name: James Thompson
Social Media: James Thompson (@JamesThompsonKS) / Twitter
IN THIS LIFE OR THE NEXT
When I found Warrior Nun, I was struggling with my then recently diagnosed Stage IV cancer. The phrase “In this life or the next” espoused by its characters resonated with me because I didn’t know at the time how much of “this life” I had left or what legacy I would leave behind for my wife and two daughters. As the main character Ava searched for meaning in her newly granted life and freedom, I found myself thinking about what “life” could mean for me. My appreciation for Warrior Nun was not only based on my own situation but also that the show provided a much needed refuge from the depressing realities of a covid world. Warrior Nun reminded me that life is beautiful, and it’s up to us as individuals to make sure we live it with passion, courage and conviction. The show helped inspire me to live in the present moment, fighting for justice and doing the right thing even when it seemed impossible.
As a faith-based show, Warrior Nun also encouraged spiritual growth by showing how one can stay true to their beliefs while still embracing diversity and understanding. In each episode, tough questions are presented with no pat answers, giving viewers the opportunity to figure out how to make sense of their own beliefs and values. Warrior Nun helped me realize that faith is not about following a set of rules or rituals but rather finding our own path in life.
The characters, particularly the women, display incredible courage in times of struggle. As the father of two wonderful daughters, the strong women of Warrior Nun are particularly inspiring because they reinforce the idea that you don’t need to be a soldier or superhero to be brave. The show’s characters fight for not just their own freedom but the freedom of everyone to choose their own path. In doing so, the show represents not just women, but all those not given a voice or represented in mainstream media, including people of colo and LGBTQIA+ characters. The show reminds us all that representation matters.
Ava and Beatrice showcase in the most tender and beautiful way that love is not a rigid construct defined by gender but an ideal of mutual affection and respect. The show’s courage to explore this kind of love, amongst all its action and fight scenes, is remarkable. Furthermore, the female empowerment message that Warrior Nun represents is inspiring. It sends a strong message to young women (and men) everywhere: don’t let anyone tell you what you can or cannot do with your life; follow your dreams and fight for what you believe in. All the female characters are strong, brave, determined and independent – and they don't depend on men to save them. Seeing powerful women like Mother Superion, Lilith or Mary stand their ground and prove that gender doesn’t define one’s strength is incredibly empowering and something I want my daughters to see.
The themes of acceptance, tolerance, and believing in yourself resonated deeply with the fans. I have seen a diverse group of people, especially young women, gain strength and courage from watching the show. It has been amazing to witness the strength and love of the fans as they unified for the show’s renewal. #SaveWarriorNun is a reminder that no matter who you are, you too can fight for justice and fairness.
Finally, Warrior Nun and its fans showed me the power of friendship and collaboration. Ava could have never achieved her goals without her sister nuns and the support of her friends. The #halobearers of this fandom reinforced this simple but pure concept when we come together to save Warrior Nun. We can achieve so much more together than when trying to fight alone.
From its strong diverse cast to its incredible fan base, Warrior Nun reminded and encouraged me to find joy in my life. The fan art including graphic design, videos and music are a constant source of inspiration and hope in a sometimes dull and dark world. Warrior Nun is a symbol of the resilient nature of the human spirit when we come together in common cause. It serves as an important reminder that regardless of our circumstances, we all have the power to choose how we live. I’m grateful for the way it enriched my life when I needed it most. In this life or the next, Warrior Nun will always have a special place in my heart and I am truly thankful for that.
Thank you Halobearers!