"No forgiveness is necessary. The Vulcan way of life is very difficult for most Earth humans to understand. The Vulcans were once very similar to humans. Emotional, territorial, violent. But tribal war, famine, and political strife led us to adopt logic as a means for peace. Among Vulcans, emotions can be so intense, that they are dangerous."
Which was what most humans did not understand about the Vulcans, particularly those like Dr. McCoy, who were tunnel-visioned in their view of other cultures. Vulcans didn't lack emotion,they had too much of it. Hence, the great importance of self control.
"I was raised on Vulcan. Though I completed much of my later schooling in San Francisco."
Their conversation was somewhat soothing to Spock. It was good to verbalize his concerns, his fears, his dismays. It helped him to think things through himself. This woman was compassionate, a good listener. She was just the sort of person that Spock needed to explain things to. Calm, interested, and expressing of genuine concern. And though he would never admit it, the human half of him greatly appreciated these qualities in a conversation partner.
"There are many on Vulcan who do not recognize me as a true member of their species. Particularly those of high rank. Though there are such individuals on Vulcan who could assist me in my quest for logic, there are no other Vulcans who can understand my human half. Similarly, on Earth, the humans do not understand the Vulcan way. The Vulcans insist on the Vulcan way. The humans insist on theirs. But me? I am trying to find balance between both worlds."