The mom guilt is intense this year. The pandemic has taken a toll on everyone in 2020. As we experience ongoing waves of COVID-19, the holiday season is yet another aspect of life that will be quite different. While many of us feel a mix of sadness and loneliness, Saturday Night Live has brilliantly highlighted the awkward conversations many of us have had with our mothers—specifically, the “I won’t be coming home for Christmas this year” discussion.
In a recent sketch, three friends (played by Mia, Jenna, and Lila) call their moms (portrayed by Rachel, Tasha, and Karen) to share the news that they won’t be home for the holidays. As expected, the moms unleash a wave of guilt as they grapple with the harsh reality of 2020.
After exchanging heartfelt “I miss yous,” the daughters explain that they don’t feel it’s safe to travel due to the pandemic. The moms respond in their classic passive-aggressive style, each showcasing a unique maternal flair. “Oh sweetie, you don’t have to come home for Christmas. I just want you to be safe,” Rachel tells Mia. “I guess I’ll just burn your stocking instead.”
Karen, in a quintessential mom tone, casually remarks to Lila, “If you don’t love me, just say it, darling.” Meanwhile, Lila’s dad, played by noted actor Jake, chimes in: “Is your heart not working, honey? This is your mother talking.”
When Tasha, who is cooking and holding a knife, hears the news from Jenna, she exclaims, “Let’s discuss this later—when you’ve changed your mind!” She’s also isolating from her husband, Jenna’s dad (played by Chris), who has been relegated to a small room in the house “for safety.” Chris starts off supportive but quickly adjusts his tune when he realizes Tasha does not share that sentiment.
The sketch resonates with many families navigating similar dynamics. While we all long for family connections during the holidays, the ongoing situation compels some of us to adhere to expert guidelines and stay put. The longer we ignore these precautions, the longer the pandemic will persist, leading to more loss. It’s as simple as that.
The sketch wraps up with a poignant reminder: “One day soon, we will all be together. Stay safe.”
For more insights on family dynamics in these challenging times, check out this blog post on home insemination kits, which provides helpful resources for family planning and support.
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In summary, Saturday Night Live effectively captures the emotional complexities of holiday conversations during the pandemic, highlighting the guilt and longing we feel while trying to prioritize safety. The sketch serves as a reminder of the importance of family, even when circumstances keep us apart.