We saw Mercedes and Terricka break a generational cycle. Through 3 generations of women. They broke an unhealthy mother-daughter relationship that was in the early stages of forming. That generational trauma that unfortunately many moms and daughters have. They broke a cycle of maternal abuse within their family — one that Mercedes unfortunately experienced at the hands of her own mother (even though we saw her exhibit it towards Terricka in that one moment; but that'll be the only time). They broke a systemic cycle of poverty that often comes right along with teen motherhood.
As uncertain and terrifying Terricka's pregnancy was to not only Terricka but her mama too, it was a catalyst that allowed them to come together for the first time. Her pregnancy brought them together. Mercedes took the reins of a mother being there for her daughter. The circumstances was life-changing and that's when she needed her the most. Mercedes was there.
What Mercedes did differently, than what she was given or even offered with her own mother when she was younger, was she allowed Terricka to have a choice. A CHOICE. The option of either keeping the baby or not. And all the contemplating that comes with making a decision for this. It isn't easy. And it isn't simple. How fitting was this episode with the current state of women's health? The timing was so on point.
Terricka's constant "I'on know" was frustrating but real. Every time she was asked, she just kept saying that. She's 14. No, she wouldn't know what to do. Some adult women don't know what to do with pregnancies they aren't prepared for. Mercedes is a witness to teen pregnancy and what comes along with being a mother too soon and too young can bring. But, the always tender and caring Mercedes was there. Being as supportive as possible while not knowing what to do herself. This just goes to show how intense her yearning has been for being a mother and motherhood. Mercedes was their for her child through it all. Stayed with her at every step. Terricka will forever remember that on this life-changing day, it was her mom that was there. She'll always remember that.
They talked. About the realities. Talked about Mercedes' life as a teen mother although she wasn't allowed to be present, the struggles that came with it, her sacrifices, her mistakes, what she considered, how she's still trying and even failing but willing to learn, what she would've wanted, what she sees for Terricka's future if she gives herself that opportunity. Terricka now realizes how much Mercedes loves her. She sees it herself.
To be very honest, I sighed a sigh of relief whenever Terricka took the exit too — deciding for an abortion. She wasn't ready for motherhood. Mercedes was relieved too! That smile she had while she was leaning out the car window said it all.
It was adorable how much Mercedes lit up when Terricka called her "mama". Was the first time she ever said it to her.
Now they'll finally get a chance at their relationship and I'm happy. Custody can't be too far along if you ask me. After all these disappointments, Mercedes is for once getting to experience some happiness & joy!
lagniappe: it was great to see the Black physician there at the clinic. Black doctors matter; also the truth that was spoken from Mercedes of how dangerous childbirth for Black girls/women is given the systemic racism in healthcare; when Mercedes told Terricka she'd by right there with her in the opposite place of heaven was so touching.
