Confessions of a Liberal Puritan

"One of the horribly addictive aspects of the show is the strength of the supporting cast. I was SO sad to see Jacob and Selmak go, but it didn't feel gratuitous (a bit rushed, maybe, as much of this season has felt). "

I couldn't agree more! I cry during those Jacob's-dying-and-Selmak's-already-comatose scenes every single time I watch this episode, but -- as you say -- it didn't feel gratuitous. You knew something was wrong with Jacob/Selmak as soon as they used that weapon in the previous episode. But it felt so right that Selmak would've tried to spare Jacob, but Jacob would've held on for the sake of their being able to help his little girl save the galaxy, one more time.

And though Sam may've been ready to 'fess up to Jack in his backyard before she knew her dad was dying, there's nothing like a death in the family to bring people together and make them think about what's really important in their lives. It certainly made Jack's deep concern for Sam much more evident, and with her dying father using practically his last words to tell Sam that she should be happy and not deny herself love because of mere rules, there's now an even greater impetus for Sam to move forward with Jack.

Hoping that the next two weeks continue to deepen the bonds and bring some well-deserved happiness to our four heroes!