You’re right. With the situation what it is, and unable to change the past, the man seems to have done the best thing possible.
I remember the story because it was unlike the usual rejection scenarios. No mention of religion or being a religious man. He just wanted to make things right, and was extremely humbled and amazed that his thoughtless behavior had turned into such a blessing (well, for lack of a better word but maybe that’s the word he used).
Of course, he was blessed because instead of running and hiding like a coward, he stepped into the light.