Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.I refuse to say this. If it means I will have to forgive Mrs. Smeath or else go to Hell when I die, I'm ready to go. Jesus must have known how hard it is to forgive, that was why he put this in. He was always putting in things that were impossible to do really, such as giving away all your money.
The narrator expresses a deep struggle with the concept of forgiveness, particularly in relation to Mrs. Smeath. The plea to forgive others is seen as exceptionally difficult, highlighting the complexities of human emotions and relationships. The narrator's firm stance suggests that if forgiveness is a prerequisite for salvation, they would rather reject it entirely than be forced to forgive someone who has caused them pain.
This reflects a broader theme in the book regarding the challenges of adhering to moral expectations. The mention of Jesus introducing seemingly impossible tasks, like giving away all possessions, emphasizes the weight of these moral dilemmas and the internal conflict they create. Ultimately, the narrator feels that the burden of forgiveness is an insurmountable obstacle, showcasing a powerful tension between personal beliefs and societal values.
