Based on the text, how does Lincoln discuss the concept of forgiveness? Lincoln repeatedly emphasizes that the North should reconcile with the South, not judge or blame Southerners for the war. Lincoln argues that God will forgive the country only when much blood has been spilled to atone for the crime of slavery. Lincoln insists that slavery is so awful that forgiveness for the South is impossible. Lincoln encourages the families of Northern soldiers who were killed to consider how the families of dead Southern soldiers might feel.