Stephen and Absalom overcome their differences as they move towards forgiveness and kindness. After reading Absalom’s letters written from prison, Kumalo finds evidence of true repentance and familiar memories of the young boy he once was. Kumalo has been changed by his son’s actions and the events surrounding it. “Pain and suffering they are a secret. Kindness and love they are a secret. But I have learned that kindness and love can pay for pain and suffering” (Paton, 261) At first, Kumalo was disgusted with the fact that Absalom didn’t repent for anyone …show more content…
Kumalo realizes that Jarvis continued to show him love and kindness when he could’ve shown hatred and resentment. Stephen chose to relay this same gesture of reconciliation to his son, rather than speaking harshly in what would be their last conversation before Absalom’s death. “The old man, moved to it by that deep compassion which was there within him, knelt by his son, and ran his hand over his head” (Paton, 241). Forgiveness can deliver us from all fears and open up a world of opportunities. It makes a path in our hearts for the ideas of compassion and hope. Kumalo chooses to comfort his son and help him gain a sense of strength and courage, when he feels overwhelmed with weakness and