Ep 6. Tempest in a Stew Pot

Becky (Lecy Goranson) is front and center in The Conners season 2 episode 6, entitled "Tempest in a Stew Pot." When her boss at the Mexican restaurant where she works hires undocumented workers, Becky finds herself in a bit of a moral dilemma. Meanwhile, Dan (John Goodman) is feeling a little blue after his mother, who passed away, is cremated -- and no heirs who were present to claim her ashes.

The episode begins with Dan, Darlene (Sara Gilbert), Jackie (Laurie Metcalf) and Becky cleaning out their mother's house after her death. We learn that Dan and Jackie are now realizing just how much their mother was collecting, as they find items like a storage container of empty sour cream containers. They decide to give the stuff to a charity, being supported prior to a group of thieves appearing. Meanwhile, Becky is grieving the loss of her baby and has gone back to work at a restaurant.

It isn't long before we realize that Becky is under stress at her job. Her boss is now hiring undocumented workers as a way to save money, but Becky is conflicted. Although she could use the extra time to study for the GED, another part of her is reluctant to take food from her co-workers families.

Becky's story is a prime example of the politics within the food industry: a line of business that is known for being exploitative of its workers, including immigrant labor. As we watch her navigate this situation, we're reminded of the ugly truths that can hide behind seemingly mundane details, like the prices we pay for our dinners.

As Dan grieves his mother, we see him struggle to come to terms with how he's feeling and what the future holds for him. As he stares at the urn on the coffee table, he admits to Darlene that he doesn't know what he's supposed to do next. He's lost his parents, his wife, and now his mother's ashes are sitting in his living room -- there's a profound sense of emptiness and confusion.

Perhaps the most heartwarming moment of the episode comes when Dan and Becky have a moment of bonding over cooking. Dan admits that he's been struggling with feelings of sadness and emptiness, so Becky suggests they cook a big dinner together as a way to take his mind off of things. As they work together on the meal, we see just how much these two characters have in common and how the simple act of cooking can be a meaningful form of connection.

Overall, "Tempest in a Stew Pot" is a poignant look at how grief and politics intersect in our daily lives. As we watch these characters navigate difficult situations, we're reminded of the importance of connecting with one another and finding moments of joy amidst the chaos. In a world that can often feel cold and uncaring, The Conners continues to be a beacon of warmth and humanity.