Question C

[Jonetta]

West doesn’t excuse his behavior at Eton but does provide a reason for why he was such a bully to Henry and others. Is his reasoning similar to what we know about most bullies? What did you make of him and was he remorseful? Did he deserve forgiveness or not?

[Sharon]

West has changed a lot since he began helping Devon with the tenants. He is remorseful and tries to make amends by helping others.

In the past, he didn't have a purpose. He was an outsider and very poor in school. It made me sad for West when I learned about his past. I believe that most people deserve to be forgiven, especially if the bad behavior was something done as a child.

[Robin]

Well said, Sharon.

[Anita]

I wasn't surprised by why West was such a bully. He had a lot of pain and making others hurt was a way to forget it for a time. Not at all healthy, but as a child he didn't have any other way to deal with his lousy life. He was truly remorseful and deserved forgiveness.

[Jonetta]

I think if you examine the reasons behind the behavior of most bullies they will sound like West’s story. Many times these bullies don’t grow out of the behavior and turn into adult versions.

West has worked hard to turn his life around and become a better man after Devon inherited the title and estate. It gave him purpose and others needed him. When I look at how the tenants on the Trenear property like and respect him, it's a clear sign of his true measure. Yes, I think he’s earned forgiveness.