"I recall returning to the States from Vietnam in '69"
I came home in June '68 and was lucky enough to land at McCord AFB instead of a civilian airport so no protesters were around. My kid brother picked me up and we drove home.
I've never been a big fan of John McCain but that in no way takes away from what he went through or his bravery in holding up under such conditions. That he is able to forgive Kerry shows he has healed successfully and I'm happy for him. I don't believe I could be so generous toward a traitor like Kerry (and I'm not!).
I'm not sure if that is "healing" or something else - like "Senate comity".
If John Kerry saw his error and was repentant about his mistakes, he could easily be forgiven. However, he still thinks what he does was right and defends it, despite all evidence to the contrary. This indicates, to me, he is either a dangerous or stupid man. I think he is the former.