Final answer:
The author's purpose is to inspire readers to release past hurts by sharing a personal story of forgiveness and its positive effects on their own life. The correct answer is option A.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that best describes the author's purpose in the narrative provided is A. To inspire readers to let go of hurts from the past. The author shares a personal anecdote about forgiveness, highlighting how harboring resentment had negative effects on their own well-being, and how forgiving someone was ultimately for their own peace and happiness. Through their recount, the author aims to encourage readers to consider the benefits of forgiving others for their own sake, rather than maintaining feelings of anger and hurt.