Ep 20. As Time Goes By

As Time Goes By takes viewers on an emotional rollercoaster ride as it marks the final episode of the beloved television series Boy Meets World's seventh season. Titled after the iconic song from the classic film "Casablanca," this episode reflects on the past and looks towards the future, bringing closure to several character arcs while leaving others open-ended, leaving fans with bittersweet nostalgia and optimism.

Cory (Ben Savage) and Topanga (Danielle Fishel), the show's central couple, find themselves at a crossroads in their relationship. As high school sweethearts turned college students, they face the difficult decision of whether to continue their romantic journey together or follow separate paths. Faced with the challenges of a long-distance relationship, Cory struggles with accepting change, fearing it may jeopardize the strong foundation they have built over the years.

Meanwhile, their loyal friend Shawn (Rider Strong) grapples with his own demons. Haunted by a troubled childhood, Shawn navigates his past traumas and seeks closure while contemplating his future. As he confronts personal struggles, the viewers witness a transformation in him as he endeavors to find his true self and rebuild his sense of identity.

Parallel to Shawn's introspective journey, Cory's younger brother Eric (Will Friedle) embarks on a new chapter in his life. Having dropped out of college, Eric embarks on a soul-searching adventure to rediscover what truly matters to him. As he encounters a myriad of characters and situations, Eric's bumbling antics and innate kindness lead him towards unexpected life lessons.

Guiding these young adults through their trials and tribulations is the wise and inspiring Mr. Feeny (William Daniels). Serving not only as their former teacher but also as a trusted mentor and confidant, Mr. Feeny imparts valuable wisdom and life lessons that resonate on a profound level. In this episode, Mr. Feeny's role takes on even greater significance as he gives the characters the guidance they need to make critical decisions and discover their true callings.

As Time Goes By also explores the supporting characters' lives and aims to wrap up their stories. Topanga's best friend Angela (Trina McGee-Davis) finds herself torn between pursuing her dreams and maintaining her relationship with Shawn, struggling to strike a balance between personal aspirations and love. The friendship between Cory's best friend, Alan (William Russ), and Mr. Feeny develops further as they explore different ways to guide their younger counterparts.

Friendship and love prevail throughout the episode, with heartfelt moments and gestures that honor the bond built since the show's inception. The episode explores the complexities of relationships, emphasizing the importance of communication, understanding, and compromise in the face of change and uncertainty.

As the episode draws to a close, the characters must confront their fears and make life-altering decisions that not only shape their futures but also tie up loose ends from the past. Emotional farewells and poignant final moments between characters leave fans feeling a mix of sadness and contentment as they bid adieu to the cherished world they've grown to love.

As Time Goes By masterfully captures the essence of Boy Meets World, encapsulating the show's ability to meld comedy and drama with heartwarming sincerity. It serves as a fitting denouement, giving fans closure while allowing the characters to transition into the next phase of their lives. Ultimately, the episode serves as a testament to the lasting impact of friendship, love, and growth, leaving viewers with a sense of gratitude for the lessons learned and a hopeful anticipation for what the future holds.