I think you are looking too much for analogous situations and missing out on the beauty of the story of Richard Alpert.
Richard wanted to do penance for the murder, for failing his wife. And the god of the Island, Jacob, gave him his wish. Abundant life, several lifetimes to work through his penance. And yet Richard thought he was lost with the death of Jacob. Without Jacob, Richard could not see how to go forward; he was without foresight, without purpose. Thus he called out to the MiB, saying he changed his mind. But Hugo and Isabella were there to give him what he needed, absolution. It was what Richard wanted all his life, and now that he has it he can go on. It was a very moving story.
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Richard wanted to do penance for the murder, for failing his wife. And the god of the Island, Jacob, gave him his wish. Abundant life, several lifetimes to work through his penance. And yet Richard thought he was lost with the death of Jacob. Without Jacob, Richard could not see how to go forward; he was without foresight, without purpose. Thus he called out to the MiB, saying he changed his mind. But Hugo and Isabella were there to give him what he needed, absolution. It was what Richard wanted all his life, and now that he has it he can go on. It was a very moving story.
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