Sweet Magnolias 2×04 “Walk of Faith” Spoilers Ahead
Of all the episodes in Season 2, this one’s a bit slower in where it leads, but still, the series accomplishes plenty with quiet moments that work best. We’re on the way towards progress, but not quite there yet, except where it really matters—following through from the previous episode, “The More Things Change.”
Tyler and Kyle are making process in their relationship with the help of Trotter (in which he once again proves he’s the best). Maddie and Kyle are making progress, and we’re one step closer to finding out who Isaac’s parents are. Helen continues to grieve, but one step forward and learning to lean on people is showing her strengths more than anything else.
Keeping the faith. Finding light in the darkness.
The only other show that can achieve a quote like this is Ted Lasso, and it’s because it never feels forced, but instead, it’s genuine and laced with good intentions. And this is especially the case because it comes from Helen who’s going through the most at the moment while still doing everything she can to help those around her. And that comes from making the decision to go about having a baby on her own, even if it means saying goodbye to Ryan for good.
Helen Decatur’s actions continue to showcase that she’s suitable for motherhood because her selflessness knows no limits. She’ll give and give even when she has nothing left inside of her, but right now, the fact that she’s making a decision for herself is a step forward.
A Breakthrough
Will Maddie and her kids having a heart-to-heart ever not crush me? The moment between her and Kyle on their front steps was perfect because it’s how you’d expect a kid to apologize (at wits’ end, tired, frustrated, and needing his mother more than anyone else). The thing is, Kyle’s demons are hard to understand at his age—feeling left out and out of place and torn up inside isn’t fun. It’s also not fun when you’re an adult either, but that’s neither here nor there. The fact remains that opening up this way is a significant breakthrough for him to understand that no matter what, he’s got a parent who’ll always show up for him and love for him for everything that he is. He’s got a parent who’ll sit on the floor with him through the pain and trauma without ever judging what he’s feeling and why.
It’s also worth noting that even the kids on this show are incredibly fascinating performers.
A Decision
It’s hard to believe that Dana Sue was the most frustrating character in this episode. Still, I’m glad that Annie was transparent enough to vocalize that what she’s doing isn’t fair to any of them—Jeremy included. It’s precisely what Ronnie did to her, even though the circumstances vastly differ. Juggling two people at the same time is never a good look. And it’s not something any of us ever want to see, and it’s not something any of the characters deserve.
Sweet Magnolias 2×04 “Walk of Faith” is a reminder to make the decisions that will impact ourselves and those around us. Moments like Maddie talking to Noreen and vocalizing her gratitude while simultaneously discussing boundaries are why the show’s special in how it treats women. Maddie has every right to be frustrated and angry, but we aren’t getting cattiness from her. Instead, we see grace, whether deserved or not. It’s the show’s strength, and the writers handle it beautifully.
Pour it Out and Further Thoughts
- Aww, Ty and Katie singing was so freaking sweet.
- It’s okay, Maddie, my mom forgets I hate paprika despite the fact that I vocalize it constantly. Cal doing the most is always the sweetest.
- Erik bringing Helen lunch. I’m wrecked!
- Ronnie Sullivan deserves good things.
Now streaming on Netflix: What are your thoughts on Sweet Magnolias 2×04 “Walk of Faith?” Let us know in the comments below.