Healing Relationships | Ask Uncle Gary

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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

How do I rebuild trust with someone who says they forgive me?

Dear Uncle Gary, How do I rebuild trust with someone who says they forgive me, but still keeps their distance? Signed, Trying Dear Trying, Forgiveness is a door. Trust is the long walk back through it. When someone says they forgive you but still keeps their distance, it doesn’t mean they’re lying. It means they’re healing. Forgiveness is a gift they gave you. Trust is a gift you’ll have to earn. So here’s what you do, you show up. Not with grand gestures or guilt-soaked apol