Ep 21. Opie and the Spoiled Kid

Opie and the Spoiled Kid is the 21st episode of the third season of The Andy Griffith Show. In this episode, viewers find Opie upset and angry after his friend Howie buys a brand new bike. Howie's bike is the latest and most expensive model while Opie's bike is old and worn out. Despite Andy's efforts to console him, Opie is convinced that he is the "poor kid" in the neighborhood and that his father cannot provide for him.

The situation becomes worse when Opie meets Howie's father, Mr. Pruitt, who is a wealthy businessman. Mr. Pruitt gives Howie everything he wants and is a strict disciplinarian. Opie becomes envious of Howie's position and begins to emulate him, even copying his hairstyle and clothing. However, he soon realizes that the new lifestyle is not as great as he thought it would be. Howie's father cares more about his public image than his son's happiness, and Opie begins to see the downside of being spoiled.

Andy, recognizing Opie's emotions, decides to show him that he is a valuable member of the community, regardless of his possessions. He volunteers Opie to take care of Mrs. Wiley's cat while she is out of town. As Opie takes care of the cat, he learns that he is capable of being responsible and that his actions can make a difference. Andy reinforces this by showing him a letter of appreciation from Mrs. Wiley, who comments on what a "fine little man" Opie is.

Mr. Pruitt eventually catches wind of how Opie has been feeling and invites him and Andy over for dinner. During the visit, Mr. Pruitt tries to impress Andy with his wealth and power, but Andy remains unimpressed. In the end, Mr. Pruitt realizes that his son does not need material possessions to be happy and apologizes to Opie for his earlier behavior. In return, Opie agrees to be a positive influence on Howie, who has been having trouble with his grades and his attitude.

Overall, Opie and the Spoiled Kid is an episode that stresses the importance of hard work and responsibility, as well as the value of family and community. It shows that material possessions are not the most important thing in life and that it is possible to be happy and fulfilled without them. It teaches a valuable lesson to children about appreciating what they have and about not judging people based on their possessions.