Ep 10. Christmas Story

Barney Miller season 3 episode 10, titled "Christmas Story," is a heartwarming holiday episode that delivers a powerful message of kindness and compassion. In this episode, the detectives at the 12th precinct are faced with a number of challenges as they attempt to spread some Christmas cheer in the midst of some hard times.

The episode opens with the detectives gathered together in the squad room as they prepare for the annual 12th precinct Christmas party. Despite their best efforts, the group is struggling to get into the holiday spirit. Barney is worried about his wife's health, while Wojo is upset about his recent divorce. Meanwhile, Harris is feeling homesick and Chano is grappling with the fact that he won't be able to spend Christmas with his family due to his work schedule.

Just as tensions are running high, the detectives are interrupted by the arrival of a man named Tom who has come to turn himself in for stealing from a department store. As they question Tom, they discover that he did it in an effort to provide a Christmas for his daughter, who he has been estranged from for years. Moved by Tom's story, the detectives decide to take it upon themselves to make sure that he and his daughter have a Christmas to remember.

What follows is a series of heartwarming scenes that demonstrate the true meaning of the holiday season. The detectives work together to collect donations from their fellow officers and local businesses, and they even use some of their own money to purchase presents and decorations for Tom's daughter. As they prepare for their surprise holiday visit, the group slowly begins to rediscover their own holiday spirit.

When the detectives arrive at Tom's apartment, they are met with a surprise of their own. Despite their efforts to keep their visit a secret, they soon discover that Tom's daughter has organized a surprise party of her own. The group is touched by the young girl's generosity and kindness, and they join in the celebration with enthusiasm.

As the episode comes to a close, the detectives reflect on the lessons they have learned. They realize that, although it's easy to get caught up in the stresses of the holiday season, it's important to remember the true meaning of the holiday: giving to others. They vow to carry the spirit of their Christmas adventure with them into the new year, filled with hope and determination to make a difference in the world.

Overall, "Christmas Story" is a touching and powerful episode that captures the true essence of the holiday season. It is a message about the power of kindness, compassion, and community that is as relevant today as it was when the episode first aired over 40 years ago. If you're looking for a heartwarming holiday show that will make you feel good about the world around you, look no further than Barney Miller season 3 episode 10.