Ep 21. Adoption Day

The Fosters Season 1 Episode 21, titled "Adoption Day," is an emotional ride that captures the essence of family and emphasizes the significance of the journey to become one. The show revolves around the story of the Foster family, which consists of a lesbian couple, Stef, a police officer, and Lena, a school administrator, and their blended family of biological and foster children.

In this episode, the Fosters prepare for the official adoption day of Callie and Jude. The show demonstrates the long and stringent process that comes with adopting a child, including home visits and scrutiny of personal lives. Through the eyes of Callie, a teenage girl who has been living in various foster care institutions for over five years, the show highlights the significance of Adoption Day.

The episode showcases the nerve-wracking feeling of waiting for the day to arrive and the mixture of emotions that come with it. Callie, who is about to be officially adopted, is ecstatic but also anxious as she has had her share of disappointment in the past. Her character also struggles to come to terms with the idea of being adopted by a lesbian couple, adding an essential discussion on the topic of same-gender parents.

The Fosters Season 1 Episode 21 has a parallel storyline that enhances its emotional value. The episode shows the character of Mike, a police officer and a close friend of Stef, who has had a hard time reconnecting with his alcoholic ex-wife, whom he is trying to get back with. The storyline emphasizes the importance of family, particularly on the value of second chances and making amends. The guest character of Mike's son, AJ, a teenager with a criminal record, adds layers to the episode's plot.

The adoption day brings happiness, but it also brings a realization of the difficulties and emotional baggage that come with it. The episode showcases the return of Justina, Callie's previous foster care provider and advocate, who has been pushing the boundaries of the law to get Callie emancipated. The character's appearance brings a feeling of unease, questioning the future of Callie's newly found family.

One of the highlights of the episode is the courtroom scene where the Foster family and the legal guardians of Jude meet before the judge. The scene captures the raw emotions of the characters, with the family's love for each other evident in every word and expression. The scene is a moving monument to recognition of family values and the bond, a reminder of the importance of family in a society where traditional family ideals are slowly eroding.

Overall, The Fosters Season 1 Episode 21 is filled with touching moments and great acting, capturing the essence of the show's overall message. It highlights the importance of family, both blood, and non-blood-related and the difficulties to be overcome to create one. The show's incorporation of same-gender parents and discussion on the foster care system adds depth to the episode and brings to the forefront the realities of contemporary society. The Fosters Season 1 Episode 21 is emotional, heartwarming, and a superbly executed testament to family values.