"...I know it isn't cruelty or shame that characterizes the human race. Its forgiveness that makes us who we are. Without forgiveness, our species would've annihilated itself in endless retributions. Without forgiveness, there would be no history. With that hope, there would be no art, for every work of art is in some way an act of forgiveness. Without that dream, there would be no love, for every act of love is in some way a promise to forgive. We live on because we can love, and we love because we can forgive..."
-excerpt from Shantaram, by Gregory David Roberts