Family Dynamics | Ask Uncle Gary

New Post

Eleven Months Later

Altadena, CA. Nearly a year after the Eaton Fire carved its way through the foothills, the town is still living in its shadow. Eleven months sounds like enough time for life to snap back into place, but for many families, the calendar doesn’t match reality. People are still scattered across borrowed bedrooms, spare couches, and motel rooms that were never meant to be home. Entire neighborhoods feel like they’re holding their breath.

Dec 30, 2025

Good Christian Family

Dear Uncle Gary, Our son is coming home from college, and he’s bringing someone he cares about, his boyfriend. We love our son deeply, but we’re struggling with how to handle this visit in a way that reflects both our Christian values and our desire to stay connected as a family. We’re unsure how to approach the conversation, especially around whether his boyfriend should stay in our home. How can we talk to our son honestly, without damaging our relationship? Signed, Good C

I'm 23, still living at home and going to school, taking a full load and working part-time.

Dear Uncle Gary, I'm 23, still living at home and going to school, taking a full load and working part-time. Is it selfish to want space from my own family? Signed, Leave Me Alone Dear Leave Me Alone, You’re not selfish. You’re human. You’re juggling school, work, and the emotional weight of figuring out who you are and where you’re headed. That’s a full plate. Wanting space doesn’t mean you don’t love your family; it means you’re trying to breathe while carrying all that. No