Where is the sympathy in Hughes' story, "Thank You, M'am?"

There has to be sympathy in both characters.  Roger might
have succumbed to bad choices in terms of criminal activity, but there is an
overwhelming feeling of sympathy in his predicament.  Essentially, he is raising
himself, as there is little parental guidance.  Roger is also a character of dignity in
that he is overcome by Mrs. Jones' compassion and kindness.  There is sympathy for him
in him wanting to convey gratitude, yet being unable to do so.  The magnitude of the
moment causes him to become silent.  There is also sympathy in Mrs. Jones, herself.  The
reader understands that her narrative is filled with pain and suffering, and that she,
too, has committed acts that do not reflect the best of human beings on any level.  Yet,
where the reader has sympathy for her is in how she does not let fear overtake her
actions.  She is able to display love and affection towards Roger.  In a world where
harshness and pain is all- encompassing, Mrs. Jones refuses to take the form of this
condition.  She transcends it, earning sympathy and respect from the reader in the
process.