What is the most important event that happened in chapter 8 of the book, The outsiders and why?

The most important event in chapter eight of The Outsiders is Ponyboy and Randy's conversation outside of the diner. The significance of  this scene is that Randy and Ponyboy find a common ground by talking about Bob and the school children. Randy realizes that Greasers are more than just hot-headed guys who like to fight, and Pony realizes that just because the Socs are different, they are people too, just like him. They both leave with a better understanding of each other, almost like bridging a gap between the Socs and Greasers.

adding more details about the struggle rainsford experiences as he swims to the shore