How could anyone judge a decision like leaving a friend on a molten planet to die other than the individual making the decision? And how could that individual weigh the choice of losing one friend to watching an entire galaxy fall into the hands of evil and corruption?
"Many times it is easier to look back on a situation after years and speculate what the correct course of action would have been. However, I do believe, that there are some cases when even the deepest and longest periods of introspection are not helpful. There are some decisions wherein the only answer can be made in that moment. And those answers are neither right nor wrong."
Obi-Wan paused for a moment and lightly pulled at a few strands of his beard in contemplation. He was trying to both be honest with Jaina and choose his words wisely. He didn't want to influence her decision, and he didn't want to seem as though he had come to a comprehension of his own decisions in the past. He hadn't. He never would. This would be an ongoing process for the rest of his life. The only thing he was sure about were his feelings on the matter.
"My years studying at the Jedi Temple have told me that emotions should not play a factor in one's decisions. That, in order to be able to make correct decisions, one must have a mind clear of emotional ties and distractions. This is a very difficult task for most Jedi. Myself, included."
He took a deep breath and gave an inward sigh.
"Some say the Force is full circle. Anakin lived. And, according to you and the others, he brought balance to the Force. Just as the prophecy foretold. But, at the same time, he brought great pain and suffering to many people. Do I regret that I didn't kill the man who would torture millions and yet, in the end, free us all?"
Could he have done anything differently? Perhaps he could have been a better mentor, a better teacher. Perhaps he could have refused to train the boy. Perhaps he could have been less stringent and more understanding. He could have been more of a father figure and less of a friend.
But that was all speculation. Speculation that Obi-Wan had mulled over for years. Speculation that got him nowhere. And, in the end, there was only one thing he was sure of where Anakin was concerned.
"I loved Anakin. I still love him. He was a friend, a companion, a brother, and a son to me. I have never had the feelings that I've had for Anakin for any other person. He is the one individual who prevents me from attaining complete clarity of mind where decision-making is concerned. No, I do not regret my decision. I could never have killed him. And were it possible for me to give my own life for his, in order to serve a greater purpose to the Force and to help him find peace, I would. Without hesitation."