Why does it take a special courage for Ulrich and Georg to consider the conflict no longer "necessary" ?

Ulrich von Gradwitz hates Georg Znaem, his neighbor, whom he considers a “forest thief and game snatcher.” The two families have fought over a piece of land that lies on the boundary of their properties, for generations. The land in question was awarded to Ulrich’s family, by the courts of the land, during the days of his grandfather. However, Georg’s family never quite accepted the decision of the courts. Aggrieved, they showed their disregard for this decision by frequently raiding the disputed land.
Ulrich and Georg have, therefore, inherited the hatred between their families. However, the two men have worsened relations between their families by personalizing the feud. The text states that the feud would have been resolved had it not been for the fact that each of the men carried in his heart a festering hatred for the other: “As boys, they had thirsted for one another’s blood, as men each prayed that misfortune might fall on the other.” Thus, when they chance on each other on this fateful winter night, they are ready to draw blood.
Their situation changes when a beech tree falls on both of them, injuring them greatly. They are forced to analyze their predicament through new eyes. They are helpless and in lots of pain and suddenly realize the folly of their hatred. It is Ulrich who first reaches out to Georg. He offers Georg his wine flask and asks him to help him to bury their differences, to accept to be his friend. Georg accepts the offer. It takes lots of courage for the two to let go of a hatred that has lasted three generations, at a time when each is helpless, tired, and in great pain. It is sad that they make peace with each other, yet might not live to enjoy the fruits of their reconciliation.