. . . and after watching yesterday�s episode THREE times last night, I am feeling very similarly effected. I think the reason that the scenes where Danny shows such deep emotion are particularly poignant is more than just the fact that Stewart is a very talented actor who plays angst and emotional torture well�although that is a necessary ingredient in order to produce the overall effect. I really believe it ties to something more common, fundamental . . .

How often have you heard your wise old grandmother tell you that nothing in life that is worthwhile comes easily? I suspect that within that little gem lies the basic truth that we are attracted to struggle and pain because we know (at some level) that it is only through struggle that we can attain deeper and more satisfying happiness. Personally, those things in my life that have been the most frightening and difficult have inevitably brought the most growth and satisfaction. I think that my attraction to certain kinds of struggle in the Manny story is born of that personal experience.

Yesterday we were treated to a wonderful storyline and great writing�not to mention superb acting by Stewart and Joie Lenz. We got to glimpse Danny�s vulnerability and his pain, his longing, and Michelle�s deep empathy for her husband�s feelings. And that scene was so moving because of their raw portrayal of struggle.

I don�t know about you, but I BELIEVED Danny was hurting and I BELIEVED Michelle was distraught over her husband�s pain. I felt it, too. And I think that the creation of a baby out of their love will be so much more worthwhile and meaningful for them and for us since it is obviously not going to come easily. They will have to struggle to create a world where a child can safely grow and thrive . . . and that will feel so much more fulfilling than watching them bear a child into the current Santos clan.

I am so excited about the level of writing and acting in the Manny story now . . . we�ve moved beyond PLOT-driven stories to CHARACTER-driven moments where Michelle and Danny get to deal with realistic issues. There�s so much potential here and these are the two actors to bring it to fruition! I applaud TPTB who have chosen to explore inner struggles with these two characters and I hope that we will be privy to the growth and satisfaction that inevitably will be the payoff of such struggle.