Ep 11. Choices

In Growing Pains season 2 episode 11, titled "Choices", the Seaver family faces a number of life-changing crossroads. The episode opens with the younger members of the family (Mike, Carol, and Ben) all struggling with important decisions. Mike is torn between staying in school to play basketball or quitting to pursue a career in a rock band. Meanwhile, Carol is trying to choose between two boys who both want to take her to the school dance, and Ben is hesitant to attend a summer camp he's been looking forward to because it's for "smart kids".

As the family gathers for dinner, they discuss their struggles openly and offer each other advice and guidance. It's clear that each character is feeling overwhelmed and uncertain, but they also lean on each other for support. Jason, the patriarch of the family, offers some sage advice about making choices. He tells his children that it's okay to make mistakes and that they should trust their instincts and follow their hearts. Maggie, his wife, chimes in that sometimes the choices we make are not always ideal, but they ultimately lead us to where we're supposed to be.

Throughout the episode, each character learns important lessons about making choices. Mike ultimately decides to pursue music, even though it's a risky path. Carol realizes that the boy who's always been there for her is the one she really wants to go to the dance with. And Ben learns that just because he's good at something doesn't mean he can't try something new and grow.

Beyond the immediate struggles of the Seaver family, the episode also touches on some deeper themes about the consequences of our choices. A minor character who has recently lost his wife comes to the Seavers for advice about how to move forward in his life. He's grappled with the guilt of not enjoying the time he spent with her while she was alive, and he's scared of making choices that will ultimately disappoint him again. The Seavers offer him a sympathetic ear and remind him that it's okay to make choices that don't always turn out as expected. They encourage him to keep moving forward, even if it's one small step at a time.

Throughout the episode, Growing Pains manages to balance its comedic tone with some really poignant moments. There are plenty of laughs to be had, particularly in the scenes where Mike's band is trying to get their act together. But there are also moments of real heartache and introspection, as the Seavers confront their fears and insecurities.

Ultimately, "Choices" is a great episode of Growing Pains. It perfectly captures the struggles of adolescence and the importance of having a support system to lean on. The show always excels at balancing comedy with drama, and this episode is no exception. Whether you're a longtime fan of the series or are just discovering it for the first time, "Choices" is definitely worth a watch.