Why does Atticus want Jem to spend time with Mrs. Dubose?

In a fit of rage, Jem cut down Mrs. Dubose flowers. Mrs. Dubose hurled insults at scout and Jem even going as far as to include Atticus. Jem cut her precious flowers. As punishment Atticus made Jem read to the old lady. He wanted Jem to get to know Mrs. Dubose not as an angry old lady but as a human being who has had a very tough life.