How/why is forgiveness important for Ronald Cotton? How is it important for Jennifer Thompson-Cannino?

Forgiveness for Ronald and Jennifer is very important. In the case for Ronald its important because he was wrongfully accused and the only way for him to kind of heal from that is to forgive Jennifer for what she has done. There is no point in holding a grudge because regardless if he did he wouldn't get those years back. In a way it would make Ronald more miserable. Its bad holding onto the past, its just better to let go. Holding onto a grudge obviously has its psychological consequences. Ronald could become depressed, he'll always be angry, it could affect his social life. People not want to be around him because he'll give off a negative vibe. For Jennifer its a kind of relief that its one less burden she has to carry because if Ronald had not forgiven her she could have felt worse and she could have fell into depression. If Ronald had not forgiven her then there would be no friendship, and the friendship helps them heal together and nothing is better than having someone to help you heal in the process