Forgiveness is for you, not them. You don't even ever have to tell them you forgive them. You don't have to forget what they did to damage you. But you want a relationship with them and now is the only time you have. I had really crappy parents, I was abandoned, neglected, abused both physically and verbally, both of them seem to be narcissistic people. I decided one day to let go of the past and try to make a relationship with both as time was passing and I didn't want to regret not doing what I could while they were still here. They didn't change, but I did. I don't have to sit and take their abuse now, I can leave. I can talk back. I can move away if I want to. I don't internalize the negativity. My mother has passed, and I am very glad I was able to have some good times with her before she went. My dad is still with me and just the same as ever, but I will not have regrets that I didn't do what I could to have a half way tolerable relationship. I will never forget what made me the mental mess I am today. But I forgave them for myself only.