Racial prejudice, ingrained over generations, is rarely completely overcome. Yet, remarkably, the Nephites have no agenda for revenge. When those who had once been their enemies ask for forgiveness, it is granted. Though they had killed many Nephites in previous battles, the Nephites were still sympathetic even to the point of protecting them with their armies. This shows a spirit of mercy among the Nephites which is worthy of emulation. They were able to do more than just say, "your forgiven," they were able to back up their words with their actions.
Spencer J. Condie
"The conversion of the war-mongering Lamanites who became the Anti-Nephi-Lehies was remarkable. But just as remarkable was the instant forgiveness of the Nephites, who apparently had friends and relatives who had been killed by the Anti-Nephi-Lehies prior to their conversion (see Alma 27:6). Conversion involves a mighty change of heart, a process experienced by both Anti-Nephi-Lehies and Nephites alike." (Your Agency: Handle with Care, p. 106)