In John Scalzi's "Old Man's War," the author explores the concept of providing closure to others, emphasizing its importance in fostering positive relationships. He suggests that offering an apology, even when one doesn't feel strongly about the matter, is a small sacrifice that can significantly enhance someone's emotional well-being. This act not only helps the other person leave with a sense of peace but also reflects a compassionate approach to human interactions.

Scalzi describes the choice between being stubborn and bringing joy to someone’s life. He suggests that maintaining goodwill is preferable to leaving someone harboring negative feelings or wishing harm upon you. By practicing what he terms "karmic insurance," he argues for the value of kindness and resolution over pride, highlighting that simple gestures of empathy can have lasting positive effects.