The concept of forgiveness is portrayed as essential for moving past pain and resentment in Diana Gabaldon's "Drums of Autumn." The protagonist realizes that in order to heal and truly let go of hurtful experiences, she must engage in a continuous process of forgiving rather than viewing it as a one-time event. This understanding highlights the ongoing nature of emotional work and the commitment required to achieve inner peace.

Through this lens, the narrative emphasizes that forgetting the past is intertwined with the act of forgiving. The protagonist learns that to release herself from the burdens of past grievances, she must actively choose to practice forgiveness repeatedly. This understanding of forgiveness as a journey, rather than a destination, illustrates the complex relationship between personal growth and emotional resilience.