Ep 12. Twelve Steps of Christmas

A Different World is a sitcom that explores the lives of students attending the fictional Hillman College. In the season 5 episode 12, titled Twelve Steps of Christmas, the students prepare for the holiday season while dealing with various personal struggles.

Kim, played by Charnele Brown, is struggling with her addiction to shopping. She is forced to come to terms with the fact that she needs help, when her credit card is declined at a store. Her friends rally around her and suggest that she attend a support group meeting for compulsive shoppers. However, Kim is hesitant to admit that she has a problem.

Another character dealing with a personal struggle is Whitley, played by Jasmine Guy. She is still mourning the loss of her relationship with Dwayne, played by Kadeem Hardison. As she prepares for the holidays, Whitley is filled with nostalgia and is unable to let go of the past. She confides in her friend Freddie, played by Cree Summer, about her feelings and realizes that she needs to move on.

Meanwhile, Dwayne is struggling to find the perfect Christmas gift for Whitley. He wants to show her that he still cares for her, but he is unsure of how to do so without causing further pain.

The theme of addiction is also explored through the character of Ron, played by Darryl M. Bell. Ron is addicted to sugar and is unable to resist the temptations of holiday treats. His weight gain has led to health problems, and his friends suggest that he attend a support group meeting for overeaters. Ron initially refuses, but eventually agrees to attend a meeting.

In addition to these personal struggles, the episode also tackles issues of homelessness and poverty. The character of Jaleesa, played by Dawnn Lewis, volunteers at a homeless shelter and encourages her friends to join her. The students realize that they have much to be grateful for, and decide to give back to their community by organizing a toy drive for underprivileged children.

Throughout the episode, the characters learn valuable lessons about the true meaning of the holiday season. They learn to appreciate their friends and family, to be thankful for what they have, and to show compassion for those less fortunate.

The episode ends on a heartwarming note, with the characters gathered together for a holiday celebration. They exchange gifts, share memories, and express their gratitude for each other. The episode serves as a reminder that the holidays are not about material possessions, but about love, friendship, and compassion.

Overall, A Different World season 5 episode 12, Twelve Steps of Christmas, is a heartwarming and poignant episode that explores the struggles and joys of the holiday season. It is a reminder that, no matter what challenges we may face, it is our relationships with others that truly matter.