Ep 17. Sometimes That's Just the Way It Is

In the 17th episode of the third season of the popular television drama series 7th Heaven, titled "Sometimes That's Just the Way It Is," the Camden family deals with a series of different challenges as they learn to cope with the realities of life.

The episode opens with Kevin Kinkirk (George Stults), who is still recovering from his injuries after being shot in the line of duty, struggling with anger and depression. His wife Lucy (Beverley Mitchell) tries to support him, but finds it difficult to understand what he's going through. Meanwhile, Eric (Stephen Collins) and Annie (Catherine Hicks) receive some unexpected news from the doctor: Annie has a lump in her breast, and they need to follow up with some tests to determine whether or not it's cancerous.

As they wait for the test results, Eric and Annie grapple with their fears and anxieties about what the future may hold. They worry about how their children will react if they do receive a cancer diagnosis, and what it will mean for their family. Throughout the episode, they try to stay strong for each other and maintain a sense of normalcy for their children.

At the same time, the other Camden children are dealing with their own issues. Simon (David Gallagher) struggles with feeling like the odd one out in his group of friends, and begins to question whether he really fits in with them. Ruthie (Mackenzie Rosman) is dealing with her first crush, and struggles to figure out how to express her feelings to the boy she likes. Meanwhile, Matt (Barry Watson) finds himself at a crossroads in his relationship with his girlfriend Shana (Maureen Flannigan), and is forced to confront the fact that they may not have a future together.

Throughout the episode, the Camden family navigates the ups and downs of life, learning to cope with the way things are no matter how difficult they may be. Despite their struggles, they come together as a family and support each other through the tough times. They celebrate the joys of life, whether it's Ruthie experiencing her first crush or Lucy discovering that she's pregnant.

As the episode draws to a close, the Camdens receive the news they've been waiting for: Annie's lump is not cancerous. They breathe a collective sigh of relief, grateful for each other and for the life they have. The episode ends on a hopeful note, reminding viewers that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope and there is always love.

Overall, "Sometimes That's Just the Way It Is" is a poignant and emotional episode of 7th Heaven that explores the complexities of family life and the challenges we all face. It's a reminder that no matter what happens, we are stronger together than we are alone.