Yeah, the important parts here are after - dealing with it - and from a thematic perspective, justifies that initial story decision.

The fact that you feel disappointed is the point. The idea that he should have been better is the point. If you feel that it’s a regression - good. Because then it goes on to refute the notion that he (or anyone for that matter) is a lesser version of themselves because of failure. “Regression” as a harmful concept. Growth isn’t linear, and evolution isn’t about becoming better, but simply trying every day. You don’t actually conquer darkness once, and thinking you do is hubris. It contextualizes Luke’s “I am a Jedi” moment as less of a Jedi one, but a human one. A son believing in his father.

If we’re talking about messages, this is what makes TLJ a sequel to the OT, and not just part of a soft reboot. Rather than reintroduce the same themes to a new audience in a new coat of paint, it actively builds on the core lessons from those films, adding nuance to their ideals of heroism and redemption. Reinforcing Luke Skywalker as heroic because of who he was, not what he should have/would have/could have been. Of course the OT can stand on its own as good messages without any sequels, but there are sequels now and TLJ does more than make what it can out of it. It doesn’t mimic the OT, it fleshes out what it means to follow their example in a messy real world, but also why it’s important to, even when it seems fruitless.

I know it’s off topic and I’m repeating myself, but I wish some people would at least acknowledge what it’s trying to do. Even if they’re not a fan of it. Honestly just put this post in General Discussion if you have to.