This passage shows that all people have weaknesses, and that sometimes the most courageous thing to do is own up to one’s own failings. Mrs. Fitzgerald forgives Rashad for lying to her because she can understand why he did it. She then makes a confession of her own, revealing her own failings and vulnerabilities. Rather than damaging her relationship with Rashad, this strengthens it, as Rashad is also scared and thus this brings them together.