How does Waverly change from the beginning of her section to the end? What causes this change?

From start to finish, Waverly goes from an angry, somewhat selfish, persecuted young woman, to an understanding woman able to look beyond herself and acknowledge the needs of others. This change is a direct result of the realization that her mother wasn't out to ruin her life. She was simply an old, lonely, lady, who happened to embrace tradition.