Padma L. Atluri on “Read Between The Minds”

Airdate: 3/19/08

WARNING!  SPOILERS AHEAD!

By now you’ve realized we here at Men In Trees like to examine how men and women communicate. What works, what doesn’t, what’s fair, and well, what gets us in trouble. In this episode we asked , “In a relationship, do you have the right to remain silent?” I know no one asked me per se, but I must admit I find silence complicated. I’m all for not speaking for the mere sake of hearing one’s voice (because that’s just plain annoying). But if there’s an issue at hand, why not talk it out? Then you can be done with it and move on. Personally, I get flustered when others choose not to discuss matters at hand. Sure it can be nerve-wracking. But it’s only when the Band Aid is ripped off that we can really heal, right? But again, that’s just me.

In this episode we watched Patrick take his right to remain silent rather seriously when his mother arrests him. He wants to punish her. And sadly, it works. Sam  however is the polar opposite. He’ll tell you exactly how he feels (except maybe how surprised he is that Jane’s parents are little—were you?). But as evolved as Sam is, Jane still struggles. She’s a little too concerned about appearances. And though she hates to admit it, she’s embarrassed of Sam’s emotional side. But in time she learns, courtesy of her mother, that when you find the right person for yourself, someone who truly gets you, their words and actions do in fact open a part of you up—a part you didn’t even know was there. And when that happens we see that a little PDT (public display of tears, of course) won’t hurt you, even at  your very own post-elopement reception.

Meanwhile, Sara learns that sometimes it takes a stranger’s kind words to remind us of what we’re good at and what we’re capable of. Thankfully, Dr. Harbeck didn’t keep that to himself. Nor Jerome for that matter. His love letter to Mary Alice, showed us that when we can’t find the words, we can find other ways to express ourselves. Even if it’s in the form of a composition. In the end, when Jerome played the piano in the bar, it was hard not to feel his love... and his pain.

And then there’s Marin and Jack. We always knew Jack wasn’t much of a talker. But when he first silenced Marin by seducing her (not a bad alternative, huh?) and then pulled away when they were in New York, we knew something was wrong. Let’s face it. Actions can speak louder than words. But they still can leave us guessing... and assuming (and we know how that saying goes...). Marin may be a good listener and a great relationship coach, but we see it’s still hard for her to put the pieces together when nothing is being said. But thankfully, Jack finally realizes that the torture of his nightmares isn’t going away and that it’s affecting his relationship. He knows he owes it to Marin to tell her why he hasn’t been himself. So he does. And by doing so he lets Marin comfort him in a way he so very needs. Just by being there.

So as you can see, a lot happened in New York. And there’s a lot happening in Elmo (especially now that we know there’s something wrong with Cash!). So be sure not to miss what’s coming up.  That way you can tell me what you think. And get this, I’ll listen.

Padma

Comments

[Ith]

What a wonderful touching episode! Between Jack and Jerome and then Sam with his vows, I was all weepy. Just so lovely all around. And I sure hope we're going to get to see more of Doctor Harbeck! I'm intrigued by his character, and how Sara relates to him. Not to mention I really loved his accent!

Thank you for writing such an emotionally satisfying episode!

[TTFN, Jenn]

APU (As per usual) Another fabulous episode! I love to see how Jane can really learn some good life lessons from her man! hopefully she will learn to not be so conscience of what others say and do. I LOVE the fact that her parents are LP. Great twist on the plot, thats for sure! And a therapist for a mom! WOAH! Watch out Jane!
I love the fact that Annie & Patrick connected on another level! They needed that.

My questions:

* What did I miss with Celia and Dick? Did they break up? She needs him back!
* Does Cash have any family?
* Does Jerome make further attempts toward his lady?

Thanks! TTFN, Jenn

[Felmoberman]

Absolutely fantastic show!! Covered all basics, was funny, romantic, and heartbreaking. Just what I've come to expect from this wonderful show. I just hope that Marin remembers this when she decides to donate a kidney to Cash. She may not think it's Jack's business, but she couldn't be more wrong. THANK YOU!!!

[Zoe from Sydney Australia]

That was the best episode I have seen, I had as much tears in my eyes as Sam had but mine were from laughter. Seana Kofoed's Jane was brilliant, besides Marin she is fast becoming my second favourite actress.

Exceptional writing, brilliant acting what more can one ask for in a series.

Keep up the great work :)

[Tina]

Loved it! Loved it!! LOVED IT!!!

I love Sam and Jane! The story with Patrick and Annie was cute, Jerome made me sad, and Jack and Marin well... I am so glad he finally opened up to her! I can't wait for next week as well... I love that J/M seem to be going strong. Finally.

Keep up the excellent job writers!

[Shelley]

I just wanted to let you know how much I loved this episode. It will go down as one of my all time favorites. Every emotion was covered! I giggled and got weepy, (so Sam!)and felt worried for Jack. I was so sad for Jerome. Annie and Patrick had me giggling again. The surprise of Jane's parents being little and their meeting with Sam was hilarious. An A+, well-written episode. Great work!

[Missy Elmo]

Jerome broke my heart last night but it was so beautiful when he played the paino.
I was very surprised that Jane's parents were little people but I now get why maybe appreance's matter to her....
I just LOVE Sam, I want the plow guy to be mine(sorry hubby!). This was a great show and as always you guys do a great job.

[tgoosesmom]

Thanks for another fantastic episode! I look forward to each and every new one.
Marin and Jack have always been my favorite characters (and couple) on the show. I love that Jack learned he needs to break the silence once in awhile. And I also love that Marin was able to give him support just by being there, instead of "talking too much", as Jack said in the previous episode. Each one gave the other what they needed.
And I have to say that I was so moved when Jerome began to play the piano at the bar. I love watching the development of his character, and I really felt for him.
Here's hoping for many many more episodes of MIT!

[Lithonia GA]

JEROME ROCKS. Just love Jerome...especially the composition he composed and played. Maybe Jerome will be appearing as guest pianist at IL DIVO concerts and invite them to come to ELMO for vacations, etc. Just a thought. Would like to see him play the piano more. HE is just PRECIOUS. Please take care of CASH. Love that handsome STUART, too. Please bring him back often. Sam, Jane and her parents are just FANTASTIC. As you can see, I really enjoyed this episode. Keep up the great work and THANKS for a wonderful show.

[jennifer]

my husband and i watch this show together and we both enjoy it. however, he made teh comment last night that this he's hoping this show isn't turning into a drama/soap opera. i think what appealed to us in the beginning was the humor and light heartedness. the heaviness wasn't there and let's face it, after working all day, it's refreshing to relax with a show that doesn't take itself too seriously. please keep more of the comedy in and less of the melo drama. we have enough of that in our own lives.

[tvtimegirl]

Loved the show last night. It had depth, humor and pathos. I hope ABC has the smarts to renew the show and broadcast the episodes that are completed. As much as I love the other characters, Jerome's story line is the most tender and bittersweet. He is a wonderful actor. Thanks for hanging in there--these episodes were worth waiting for!

[Pat T]

What a great episode. I've become a fan recently and I'm really enjoying the show.

I hope we see Dr. Harbeck return soon. He's an intriguing character and I would love to see how he interacts with the main characters in the series.

[Rachel Rose]

Loved, loved, loved this episode. It had sad, happy and silly all mixed into one. Loved Patrick and Annie in jail. Loved Jane's small dress and Sam's crying. (By the way, can't get enough of Jane and Sam)Marin and Jacks break through in communication was sweet and I think will make some viewers be reminded of why they are meant for eachother. My heart broke for Jerome. He became one of my favorites this week.

Thanks for a great ending to my Wednesday night. Can't wait till next Wednesday.

LOVING THIS SHOW SO, SO, SO MUCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Patti in Florida]

Last night's episode was great. Sam is such a sweet man. His final vows were so very touching. Jane couldn't quite handle it. Loved it. But I felt so bad for Jerome. He came out of his bar stool drunk and probably smelly to be such a special man and went through all this transformation to have his hopes of love dashed. What a special moment when he sat at that piano and began to play. Brought tears to my eyes. I just love this show, more and more and more. Nuff said! Keep 'em coming!

[Ava]

I loved too many things about this episode to list. Two great surprises were Jane's parents being little people and the best surprise was Peter Wingfield playing Dr. Harbeck. I love, love, love Peter Wingfield and hope to see him again. The only disappointment of the episode was no Cash. I don't understand what the problem is, it sure isn't a lack of fans because if you are reading the comments as I am, then you have to know how much the fans love him. I am really looking forward to next week and hoping for some quality time for Marin and Cash. Please don't disappoint.

[LB]

Great show last night! I have to say, I enjoy wtching with my husband but he(and I) are starting to get a little bored with the constant struggles each episode between Marin and Jack. I get the struggles of communication....and jack's post trauma issues, but could they just be happy for a couple episodes in a row? I can see trouble brewing where Julie cmoes in...and Stuart?
Love the new Doc. Love the JAIL bit with kids. The whole bit with Jane/Sam and the parents was TERRIFIC! LOVED IT! AND most of all, LOVE Wednesday slot! Dont lose it! ;-)

[Deb]

I loved this show. I am so glad that MIT is back. Can't wait till next week.

[cassandra]

What a great episode! Delightfully suprising that Jane's parents were little people. Glad Jack finally opened up to Marin. Love them together. Sorry Stuart, you're too late!!!

[Dick in Ct]

Another amazing episode - the pain Jack is going thru ... and poor Jerome, after conquering his fear of flying, he gets stood up - how devastating! Hopefully May Alice will hear his composition he wrote just for her ...

can't wait for the next episode ... God, I love MIT

[Nora]

This was one of the best MIT episodes - I loved it! Jane's parents are so sweet! :) And so is that Sam guy. :D I love Jane and Plow Guy's relationship and their bi-coastal living. It will be interesting to see how Jack begins to heal by talking with Julia, while in a relationship with Marin. And looking forward to seeing what the journey ahead is for Annie and Patrick. They are so cute together. :)
Can you also include some tidbits of behind the scenes info on when you were filming the episodes? It's so fun to read about what goes on behind the camera. Thanks!

[Betty]

Fabulous episode...I enjoyed every minute. As usual, you have given us much to think about over the week. MIT is the VERY BEST hour of t.v.

[Staci]

I think this episode really drew every emotion in me. I laughed, I cried, I was choked up when jerome played the piano, shocked when I saw Jane's parents. Bravo! This is my second favorite episode next to Talk For Tat.
Kudos to cast and crew. Love this show!

[tamden]

Please bring Annie Potts back! I loved Jerome and Mary Alice.

[Stacy]

Thanks for writing. I loved this episode!!!

It was nice seeing Annie and Patrick connecting in jail.

Jane's parents were great and I loved Sam's vows at the reception. Also loved Sam's plate of bacon.

Jack and Marin... Jack looked so adorable on the plane. I'm so glad he finally told Marin about what happened with Gary. Him sleeping on Marin's shoulder was so sweet. I'm sure things can only improve for them.

I even liked Stuart in this episode. He didn't seem so cocky. I think he really realized he messed up with Marin.

Great show. Please keep them coming.

[Diane]

Loved, loved, loved this episode. Great in every way! This is, by far, the best show on television. Some of my friends love it but others say they can't get into it because they don't know who the characters are or what has happened to them in the past because the show has been off and on so much. I'm sorry about that because this is a great show! My mom and my daughter in two different states both called to talk MIT this morning. We all love it!