140: Tanner Jones | My Life After Coming Out, Divorcing, and Leaving Mormonism

[@jennierichards9550]

Tanner is now married to my son and we love him to pieces. He is a wonderful son in law and his girls are adorable and gorgeous grandchildren. Wishing everyone struggling with their sexuality loads of love and hope that they too are able to go on to have a happy future.

[@tca666]

I loveeee his perfectly tanned like i wanttttt 🥰😍🥰

[@uptoolate2793]

That's fantastic.

[@perrylkent]

hes already taken @@tca666

[@ClementGreen]

@@tca666 I know - he's pretty hot!

[@ClementGreen]

Amazing! May I ask if Tanner is the marrying kind? What I mean is if he always wanted to be married, just not to a woman, or if it was part of deconversion, or if it was - as I suspect! - that he fell madly in love with your son? I'm genuinely fascinated. I mean no disrespect or nastiness whatsoever. I'm gay, but not married.

[@atlas2164]

Tanner was in my mission -- I served around him. Good dude.

[@beastscooter]

Loved the interview. Compelling all the way through. I was married to a women for 13 years. She was the one to acknowledge that I didn’t, couldn’t, love her as she needed and wanted. After months of turmoil splitting up our secure home, I got my own place nearby to be close to our two children and started to negotiate “my” life truly. I have now been happily married to a man, the love of my life, for 25 years. My former wife and I are still dear and lifelong friends. I am so grateful to her for recognizing her truth, and opening a door to mine. She too is remarried to a great guy and we have all remained a close family. May your life’s be as blessed.

[@tomdimartino7361]

Consider yourself lucky! I wish I did what you did, I'm 62 now

[@susanmark2000]

Beautiful.

[@KennyVert]

I love stories like yours. Glad you all get along. That's really cool. What a blessing.

[@jtrevm]

Compelling indeed. Tanner tried. Didn't give up - did what he could. I tried and didn't recognise limits. Marriage for ten years. A strong willed wife - who wouldn't not see limitations. Eventually saying I couldn't be a husband - but she still wanted children from me. I failed to say no. Fortunately no children. (Amazing and Godly). And then of course came the days when my 'failure' was evident to me. I said to her I was gay and asked for separation. The divorce was brutal. I gave her everything and a loan. The Church was absolute in the blame game. I was at total fault. I sorted it out over a period of five years. Gained sense of self-worth. Put the Church in it's dysfunctional place. Found my faith hugely strengthed - I understood/ understand God and His ways. Now married to man clearly 'meant for' me and me for him. It's a journey. But strangely overall - I didn't 'give up ' I did what I could as I could. Wounds come; wounds can heal. Scars yes. But we learn.

[@KennyVert]

@@jtrevm thank you for sharing your journey.

[@auto137226]

Tanner, thanks for sharing. Old gay ex-Mormon BYU Grad here.

[@nathansiktberg5929]

Im a gay methodist ministers son from Indiana...I have had a difficult time.. Still am and im 60 . Im listened to all.you said. I am amazed at how well you did. Such a strong person Peace

[@kevinhunter8156]

I'm a Christian and gay. I'm 49 and have a difficult time. I often wonder if the difficulties will ever go away.

[@sethfelson]

When Tanner said his Father took his face in his hands and told him that "We love you and that will never change", I knew Tanner would be fine. Tanner, you're a mature, well rounded and adorable young man. Your daughters are lucky and one day you WILL find your soulmate...He'll be a very lucky man...

[@wishusknight3009]

It seems like Mormons on the whole are more accepting of their LGBT kids than most other fundie insular groups. I realize this isn't saying a whole lot, and some certainly go too far and kick their kids out, even at a painfully young age. But it seems like the culture has some room in it for some level of acceptance. I have now seen several mormon parents who still have great relationships with their gay children and even their partners. This is not something that I have seen in all the years I spent as Jehovah's Witness.

[@kennyworth007]

@@wishusknight3009 That was very heartwarming. You knew he was raised by good people.

[@davyboysb]

Awesome!...That was beautifully written, Seth and I'll bet that YOU'RE a very lucky and happy man right now too.

[@sethfelson]

@@davyboysb Thanks Davy! I wish; still taking applications for the right one ;)

[@davyboysb]

@@sethfelson Hi Seth!! I'm almost done filling out my application :)...uhhhhm..WHERE is the line? I'm sure it's long but I'm a pretty patient guy. Hope you're having an awesome day! :-)

[@chaallus]

I'm a gay man and I'm not LDS and never have been, but I just watched the full 55+ minutes and was fascinated and intrigued. Very intelligent discussion. Thank you for what you're doing!

[@LledoLes]

Tanner - I have been out since my early 20's and now am about to turn 60. I have been with my current male partner for 16 years and married for 6 of those years - I have been in three prior long term relationships with men with whom I am still friends with today. Listening to you reminded me of my struggles with coming out and like you was so fortunate to have loving and supportive parents who despite their lack of complete understanding of my sexual orientation loved me all the same. Like you, I left my formal membership with my church (Catholic, though) but remain faithful to my God. That said, I wanted to acknowledge the work you are doing in helping those who like many of us struggle with living our authentic lives. Sadly there are so many not as fortunate as us to have a strong and loving support system. So I think the message you are relaying to them is that you have to be true to who you are and love yourself as you are. I really related to your story and thank you for the contribution you are making in instilling and for validating the sense of "normalcy" to who we are as LGTBQ individuals. May you find your mate who will fulfill the love your truly deserve.

[@jeremylee5990]

The whole "coming out" nonsense whether as fat, bi, gay, or trans or any other identity group has become a fad. People make videos of their "coming out" to parents and friends, then play the professional victim card followed by all the other members in their victim group telling them how brave and beautiful they are and rage against anyone that dares to disagree ... it is pure comedy ... LOL.

[@timhazeltine3256]

@@jeremylee5990 So, bullying others make you feel like???

[@uptoolate2793]

Wow, same here right down to my age except lutheran.

[@robertramsay5963]

I'm pleased to hear that Tanner came out for his wife's happiness as much as for his own. How tragic if he'd stuck with his marriage, never letting his wife experience "true" love. I hope he finds it now, too.

[@shoitisato2234]

I just cried when he said that his father had grabbed his face and said that no matter what they (parents) loved him unconditionally…

[@beaumac1950]

At 71 and a Mississippi Delta Southern Baptist … I can identify truly … It’s so important to be authentically connected to our Great God as devout Christians … yet learn Truth for out gay-ness … My admiration and congratulations to you … my friend …Beau

[@richardblosat9010]

My hat's off to Tanner. Such a fine young man. Somebody will swoop him up. very articulate and very good looking

[@johnsullivan3547]

Tanner is incredibly articulate, and brave, especially for someone so young. I'm sure that Tanner's story will be very helpful to many people who need to hear his story.

[@garyrains5996]

Good luck to you Tanner! What a journey you've just begun. I'm a native Arizonan, 70 years old, brought up by fanatical evangelical parents. Even then, my mom and dad loved me unconditionally. I am celebrating 38 years with my husband Mike this year. Yes it is a success story, but it didn't come without trials and tribulations. Stay focused and reality based. Life ain't a bowl of cherries for anyone.

[@watson666]

Tanner being gay/mormon has saved many lives by telling his story kudos to you young man...

[@MrJerobona]

Your story ends way happier then mine... Great for you! I don't see my family, but I live happy with my husband of 12 years now! And his family became mine!

[@baddow315]

I watched this interview with interest. I had a similar experience, until I came out. My family and her family turned against me, and it was like a war. I was forced out after some pressure put on me by my own family. It’s going to be a struggle but I am not giving up. I am a decent, hard working man, taking care of my twin boys. And never abandoned anyone. Good luck to you Tanner, I am glad you have you families support. 👍

[@AlmightyPush_]

Hey, i'm so sorry to hear that... How is it going now? Everything is okay?

[@BillPritchard]

Remarkable courage and honesty here! Bravo finding and accepting your true authentic self, Tanner. Truly!

[@pauleric11]

Thank you for this podcast. Excellent. As a gay Catholic man now 49, growing up gay in many faiths can be so stressful and confusing. It’s a journey and when you surround yourself with good people it helps pave the way. But so many can be mislead by the church that doesn’t recognize glbtq and the basic right that every person should be treated as equal. Nobody is better then Anyone else. We are all Gods children. Thank you tanner for so eloquently delivering your story. Bless you.

[@dandavis2435]

Thanks for this great story. I am in same situation after 27 years marriage and living on my own one year now. I am happier and feel living and sharing truth makes life as meant to be. My children and family are supportive for my happiness and living my authentic self. God bless Tanner and your truths.

[@Mega_Casual]

Tanner should write a book titled, "How to live a million years in seven days". His story is real, with emotion including his every day pressures of living secretly as a gay person. Great story.

[@michelfortier9563]

If the worst thing you have to face God is having loved another man, I think you're going to be ok......

[@micklebt]

Tanner is a very good speaker. So concise, discreet, so respectful of traditions and beliefs. The struggle his (and his tribe's ) beliefs made maturity into adulthood very difficult. Many gay married men could TRY to hold up the "She deserves someone who can love her fully, like she deserves' couldn't do that with any sincerity or conviction. BUT, I believe Tanner was absolutely genuine each of the times he said that. Very nice interview.

[@wow444]

I came out during college (1971) in San Francisco. I had left the church by that time, mainly due to the LDS doctrine about Blacks being cursed. As a white gay ex-Mormon, born in Utah, I determined to be honest about who I was. My parents (both teachers) were supportive, as I confidently tried to "educate" them about human sexuality. Tanner offers a very touching and honest account of his Mormon journey. Now his spirit can take a deeper breath and move forward. Bless him.

[@antoinnevanrensburg8690]

I think if there was one thing Tanner said that really stuck with me is that there's never a perfect time to come out. Thank you man. Appreciate it.

[@tracyt2246]

I have heard many similar stories over the years, being a former Mormon and gay. These are not my experiences but a number of my friends have had similar experiences. Tanner just layed it out in the most accurate and articulate way possible. Well done, I hope he has a great life and finds his true love.

[@smoothsilk47]

What a lovely person Tanner is, I wish him much joy & happiness with whoever he finds, sounds like he has a great family who are so understanding as well!

[@warrenpaine]

I really wish I was able to see a video like this when I was 14 or 15. It would have helped me so much. Thanks Tanner for sharing your story.

[@ted1091]

Thank you both. I've been out since 1974 at age 18, but I found this discussion riveting. An outstanding interviewer and an intelligent, beautiful young man. This will no doubt help many others. And I'm glad you were treated with love, unlike so many of us who came out in the early days. There has been progress. And young Gay people watching this will have their lives made easier because of your courage.

[@jacquesvilleneuve8391]

It'd be interesting to know how it was to come out at that time

[@t.p.mckenna]

I greatly admire for Tanner for being able to be so open so soon after his coming out. It's 19 years since I ended my marriage and came out as gay but the memory of those events never dim and so much of Tanner's experience rang true, but it is how we are reborn into the fate that was always our destiny.

[@chrisnorthridge4953]

I love tanners personality and his values,he is so genuine and got a wonderful perspective ,and I wish he lived near me

[@jeffreyness9961]

I am very happy for Tanner that he has the strength of character to know who he is and to make the hard decisions that led to him coming out. It is a gift that his parents love him unconditionally. I hope he finds a life partner with whom he can share his entire self. I went 29 years in a marriage doing what I thought was the right thing according to the church and now I find myself alone and isolated. I wish Tanner the best life!

[@timothymulholland7905]

This is all so tragic. I’m glad you are helping other people in this situation.

[@russellblink7]

Wonderful interview. Tanner can be such a great example for so many. Hope he finds the man of his dreams, and that his wife does too.

[@waynetompkins6392]

What an awesome interview. No question this young man's testimony will positively impact many lives.

[@peniprinceandrews2088]

Im a mom and. Loving parent my daughter just came out at 52 . I thought we could talk about anything but life never gave her the chance. We are stronger to let let her grow in her next have of her life. It was an accident that I tuned into you pod and I want to listen more. Thank you

[@djbiviano]

I was struck by how parallel Tanner's story is to my journey as a Catholic, in the 1950s to the 80s. He is so honest and clear about his experience. I was quite touched by his description of his wife's immediate reaction, to comfort him and have compassion for his struggle, a wonderful similarity to his concern for her to have a happy, loving marriage with someone who could be fully there for her. You are a wonderful young man, Tanner - thank you for your story - I am sure it will help many others in similar situations, perhaps sparing them the regret you expressed of dragging your wife along through the journey. That was my biggest regret, also. Peace, love and joy always!

[@davidsandall-hill1695]

Painfully beautiful!! As a gay man and a former member of the LDS faith, this spoke to my soul through lots of tears. Thank you for sharing your “testimony” 😉. Blessings to all involved. Tanner, did your coming out on Facebook affect your business at all??

[@tannerjones3272]

I lost a few customers but overall nothing major thankfully 🙌

[@littlezentz]

Living authentically has always been a struggle for me. Mormon Stories and Latter Gay Stories have so much to offer me. Thank you so much.

[@jorymartin2706]

What an amazing story. I can't imagine the pressures you endured trying to live up to what you thought was the "right" thing to do. Thank you Tanner for sharing.

[@garymoore7201]

Absolutely awesome and genuine.. thanks sooo very much Tanner! Through your courage, strength and candor you will potentially help hundreds!! Which incidentally is exactly what God asked us to do.

[@c.retana-holguin8318]

Tanner--you have done the right thing! God Bless you as you go forth in your new journey.

[@edjarrett3164]

What a remarkable story by a remarkable young man and father. Your candor and stalwart commitment to doing the right thing is uncommon. You live the honest life that makes the journey worthwhile. Well done, and happy journeys!

[@andrewtownsend3115]

This is such an emotional and helpful story. It is so hard to deal with this when we are in a church that teaches it is wrong. I have to say it is so sad we have to tell people we are gay. No one has to tell every one they are straight. My heart goes out to Tanner and I do hope that his and this medium may help others in the future

[@kboyer1011]

What a beautiful young man. I hope he finds much happiness in his life - THIS life.

[@binge33]

Tanner, you certainly are one strong man. Geez, I’m 58 and still in the closet. I never had a loving relationship because I live in a small town and state.I guess that’s why I never felt the need to come out.Please still stay strong with Jesus. Thanks for sharing your story

[@devahardeepsingh2430]

Wow, amazing transparent story of honesty, struggle, and breakthrough. It's wonderful to hear of Tanner's coming out, his struggle, his sharing will offer hope to many. Courageous young man! Wonderful sharing!

[@PeteLenz]

Being an authentic Dad to your kids is the lasting gift you will give them. 💜. Walk your journey in love and kindness. Your heart and soul will be happy. My kids are the amazing part of my former marriage (to a woman), that I cherish every day. My ex and I found ways to co-parent, and today we have much fondness for eachother. Hugs

[@chrisjay323]

I loved this and completely Identify with his story because it’s mine as well. Thank you fir both Tanner and you Mr. Host’s bravery and platform .. we aren’t the only ones going through this.

[@gregory1953able]

A wonderful story of finally realizing who he really is. I was raised Penticostal and my parents, I was there foster son were not happy and did not love me as your parents did. I am proud of you Tanner. Best of luck in finding your soul mate.

[@markmagbee6892]

Tanner has an amazing testimony. My faith tells me that god is healing the planet, and you Tanner are living proof of that. GOD BLESS YOU!

[@Randal0011]

Thank you. I went through this in the eighties and nineties. So, I'm down the road, but I appreciate Tanner's story. We live in a society even outside of the LDS faith that automatically makes it scary to live authentically for anyone gay straight bi trans queer questioning. Its a harsh reality that life and even our loved ones demand alignment to certain acceptable behaviors. Its a lesson for everyone who wants freedom and authenticity in their life. Thank you Tanner for reminding us/me that living authentically doesn't take away the challenges of life. Living authentically is living honestly and that carries pain disappointment and sorrow - but the pain is the result of vulnerability and openness instead of play acting someone else's version of life.

[@chuckvaughn]

Thanks. I'm now 58. I was 37 married and had no clue I was gay. After 3 years of marriage I had your tic tok moment where I saw something and then wondered. I was scared and excited. Wish I would have known younger. As a parent I realized I wanted to change my way of parenting. Let my kids be who they are. Spiritually, sexually, and whatever, I told them straight up I would love them whatever they chose. Education, jobs, friends I just realized as parents we pidgin hole our kids and try and make them what we want or what we think is normal. But let them be their normal and maybe it will be easier.

[@TheRobblue]

Thanks, Tanner, coming out is a personal journey and you know when the time is right...thankfully for me it was within 2 years of my mission and before I got married...

[@paulalwayslearning8573]

Tanner was just so articulate. This is a great record for people in his position, what an inspiration.

[@KennyVert]

By the way, Tanner, the comments are spot on with calling out how articulate, sweet, and handsome you are. Thanks for sharing your story with us. Love, -Kenneth

[@WadersInAlaska]

Thanks, Tanner for giving your story to the world. Religions are a tough cookie to crumble when it comes to interfacing of the straight and gay communities. There is no simple answer. Just being true to yourself is the first step in realizing happiness. I wish you all the best in reaching your goals. I am sure you will have no problem as you are an intelligent and likable fellow!! Cheers from Alaska!!

[@richardhadley7867]

No idea why I clicked on this podcast but so glad I did. Tanner spoke of living his truth and being authentic. This was both truthful and authentic. You could sense the underlying relief of his finally being able to be his true self. A ten year journey back to himself. My church (not LDS) shunned me almost 50 years ago because I chose to study theatre. They said if I did, I would be asked to play bad characters and would depict evil and that was not acceptable. It was so hard loosing the fellowship I had. I left for London at 17 to study, and in a large city was able to find a community of like minded souls. I wish Tanner every happiness, his ex-wife and daughters will eventually realize that this was best for all. I wish him and his family every happiness.

[@alanjmcc]

Don't know why this suddenly popped up on my KZbin page a year and a half after it was videotaped but I'm glad it did and glad I took the time to listen all the way through. Thank you for putting this story out there. When talking about homosexuality we often forget the impact coming out has not only on LGBT people themselves, but on their loved ones as well. The tragic mistake Christians, including Mormons, have made in centering morality on our inborn sexual natures instead of on the ability to show mercy and compassion and grasp the importance of avoiding violence and deceit, comes through loud and clear in Tanner's personal story. Christianity, when it remembers it's about love, does not do to people like Tanner what it took him ten years to crawl out from under. I hope this story is shared as widely as possible among other gay young people.

[@kevinlong5842]

I wish we had never felt the need to hide our true nature and same sex attraction, but it's getting there. It's getting better. I hope you and your wife will find the loving partners that you deserve. Thank you for sharing your story.

[@11sesquialtera]

inspiring. A truthful assessment of one's self. Clear thinking, brave, and forthright dynamic….you are a hero for many

[@josephmillraney1061]

I don't typically write this, but this podcast was very interesting! Tanner, you are such an inspiration. I came out to my son and wife almost 25 years ago. They are both gone and I loved both of them with all my heart. My wife and I stayed married until she passed in 2017. I miss them both still. Love your daughters with all your heart. I have a beautiful granddaughter who means so much. Your's and your ex-wife will eventually find the happiness that you both deserve. Thank you so much for sharing your story. You don't know how much it means to me. Blessings to you and all those you love!

[@rjyeezy76]

Grounded, well spoken, and sweet personality . He’s going to make someone very happy..

[@mjohnson9563]

What an incredible story. There are so many other out there in a similar situation. Glad every thing has worked itself out. God Bless and Thanks!!!!

[@chriscrossjones]

What a facinating interview! This video could mean so much to so many. While I didn't have a super regligious upbringing, it was a big part of who I was throughout high school and part of my undergrad years. Just like Tanner, I could remember seeing the man in a heterosexual relationship and confusing my attraction for him as me wanting to be like him. Thinking back on that, I tried to be someone I wasn't by dressing and acting like the men I found attractive. I have a younger brother that is also gay and he actually came out before me. We're very thankful to have accepting families, but I know this isn't true for all people. I agree with Tanner - coming out on your own time is important. However, I hope that at some point in the future, coming out won't be necessary. I love the visibility people have to the queer community these days and it's stories like this that make me hopeful for a more accepting world. Thank you for sharing your story, Tanner!

[@themagickalmermaid]

I wish you much love, light, protection, healing & grace!

[@patrickblaney1675]

41:15 In spite of apparently being surprised by your news, your dad thought to say the most important thing he could have said to you that night. You are very fortunate to have such loving parents and such good role models in parenting your girls.

[@adscri]

The ‘we will always love response’ which I’ve now heard so many times, while comforting is still troubling. It does not necessarily imply true and full acceptance of a person’s homosexuality. For me - and I stress for me - it rings hollow - a grudging ‘despite your imperfection’ seems implicit.

[@patrickglenn3928]

Loved this interview. Thanks for the story. I can relate to this so much. I'm in the beginning stages of a divorce after coming out and trying to find a path that works.

[@rvstewart4211]

Thanks so much for this! Many similarities in my world and it was nice to hear someone in “today’s generation” that truly has her act together and us moving forward in a way that is awesome! Thank you both for sharing

[@skatefan78]

What an incredibly well spoken, humble, and caring young man to KNOW in his heart of hearts through everything who he was, to go on that journey, and yet stay concerned that those around him understood why it was necessary, & keeping his children a priority through it all. I related to so much of this, growing up in the Southern Baptist faith (though I've struggled with these issues in different ways). I'm really rooting for you Tanner!

[@republiccan7138]

Tanner Jones, it is a pleasure to hear from you.

[@scottbuhler7919]

I am soooo grateful to Tanner for sharing his life with us. This is my first time with your channel, I'm subscribed now. I love the open honesty. I'm a member, divorced from a non-member and have two grown children. Each persons road is different but no less significant and real than another's. I'm looking forward to more sharing and insight. Thanks

[@geoffnunn4108]

To quote Shakespeare (Polonius) 'This above all; unto thy own self be true'. I'm so pleased you are living your authentic self. Big Love

[@saltontheshelf]

Great interview! Tanner did a great job telling his story. He also has a great smile and a phenomenal tan! 😁☺️👍🏾

[@NZer-t2i]

two of my sons are gay and we raised them Mormon, I love them unconditionally and support my boys 150% - blessings all the way from New Zealand

[@ElectricSpokes]

I was raised in the church, too. I was terrified to come out. I knew I’d be disowned. So I never came out. I was found out. My coming out story had a bit of hilarity and a lot of devastation and heartbreak. In the end, I lost my family, rendered homeless and on my own at 16. My journey has a lot of up and downs. Depression, self harm. Etc. I never got into drugs or alcohol, though. I tried to remain morally solid, don’t steal, do good, didn’t drunk, do drugs, etc. I had my good days and bad days. Homelessness at 16, abused by someone supposed to help me. My story is different but connected to the church. Thanks for sharing, I wish my experience was different. I’m glad you’re happy. P.S. you have an infectious smile.

[@hendrikvanderwalt6960]

Well done! Your story is really awesome! Always remember, God doesn't make mistakes. Your journey will mistakes definitely encourage and help other young people!

[@markjones1184]

Thank you for this. Tanner's story was illustrated so wonderfully. Wishing him the best

[@123layci]

I have a beautiful gay son around the same age as Tanner. This has been an amazing and very informative interview. Thanks 😊

[@Scottie404]

It must be horrible to believe that you have an "incurable disease" but are unable to discuss it with your family. Good luck to this brave young man who has is a credit to his family.

[@dougkim-brown2808]

though I am not mormon and know just a little about how the church works, Tanner's story and presentation were helpful in understanding the context of his coming to terms and coming out - he seems to be coming from a pretty centered place and seems oriented towards what is true for him. That journey looks like a loving and intelligent direction. I admire him for his courage and awareness. My own coming out was much later - almost forty years of marriage and two adult children. Though we are separated by many years, I can relate to the emotional weight of years of conflict - and the release of telling the truth - and the uh oh, what now moments afterwards. If I can pass on anything to him and others in similar situations, telling the truth can be painful and liberating - it is also bonding. My partner and I feel very functional in our re aligned family - as does my ex wife and her partner. The kids are as loved and loving as ever. We just spent a great week together and look forward to many more. I stumbled into this channel - so glad I did

[@stuartdarrall3026]

I would like to meet him

[@scottgies]

Great story and I commend Tanner for his honesty and williness to share his story and journey.. I'm sure it will help many young men in LDS who are struggling. Wonderful!

[@DesmondNathan]

Thank you. You helped me at the right moment of my life.

[@12markito]

It’s so hard to take the first step. Glad you had that courage. ❤️

[@knarfknarf9852]

I am glad Tanner will have peace with himself and continue to have a good relationship with his ex-wife And able to have a outstanding relationship with his two girls.. side note: Tanner is an attractive young man.. one more thing… I am glad Tanner’s parents didn’t kick him to the curb…. God bless him in finding happiness…

[@losttexanbr2811]

Your story reminds me of where I am today. I have a wife and grown sons, but have tried to make it work. I also knew I was maybe bi, but at 58 I realized and looked in the mirror and said I am gay. Today at the age of 61, with a grandson, I am still not able to take that step. I also let me church because of their beliefs and and now attending a church that accepts all and I am able to sit beside my gay son and his husband. Happiness is very important, loving God and my family is also very important. To be young in 2021 and gay is much easier, however we all have to make the decision how to protect those we love and also be who we really are.

[@briano672]

I hope you can allow yourself to live you’re true self . You deserve it.

[@briano672]

@therealz 360z I agree.. but sometimes the damage it could bring msg never be repaired especially with religious or old perspectives

[@willjones1508]

Anyone can see the light that shines bright from within, may You achieve the desires of your heart.

[@lisapurplehayes]

Thank you for standing up for what is right!

[@torlandcornelius-adkins3393]

Thank you Tanner! I admire your courageousness and bravery. You are a wonderful person! Keep believing in and being loving to yourself!😊

[@ewolff1516]

You are SO brave. You’ll have a wonderful life and so will your family because of your bravery. Well done.

[@robertstromberg2086]

This is so beautiful ! Tanner ,you are amazing and strong. B proud . You are loved .

[@happygolucky4266]

Really enjoyed listening to this video. Great in site from the perspective of a gay man. I couldn't imagine the pain it must of caused to not be able to be who you are. Thanks for sharing your experiences.

[@Lugano89_MD]

Tanner, you are an amazing man. Thank you so much for sharing your story!

[@PhilipSteeves]

You are like everyone else, a beautiful sweet young man! Kind, charming, and sincere!

[@jeremiahmiller4010]

Thank You, Host of this pod. and Thank You Tanner Jones for sharing your life's journey, This is bread for the Soul...

[@jimmmmy41]

Wish you the best, Tanner. I came up in a fundamentalist baptist, conservative world. Having a secret knowledge about oneself that conflicts with that world view is hard, in and of itself. Living authentically is the best thing we can do for ourselves, and everyone around us. Whoever the guy is who eventually is right for you will be a lucky man.

[@johnbecker5900]

Just watched the video, just wanted to add my encouragement to Tanner moving forward and to acknowledge the bravery and honesty I saw in the video, thanks for sharing your story and embracing the truth of your life as your understanding grew. As a father of four that is now happily married to a man I will say your story touched me on many levels, enjoy your journey from here and trust that being your true self is the right path. Trying not to sound condescending at all, but have to say I am proud of you.

[@chuckjohnson8548]

Tanner, you have an amazing story and I’d give anything to have your ear for a while. I’ve lived my entire life never feeling or understanding what love is myself. I have three beautiful children I love deeply, but have never felt that soulmate I love experience and it’s killing me. I’m glad you had maturity to step out. Maybe life will cross our paths someday and we can talk.

[@chrise438]

Very articulate, good looking young man. Thank you for sharing your story. The very best to you moving forward in your life. You appear to be a good person with a good heart, and you deserve to be happy.

[@jtrevm]

Just watched - and thought wow. I can recognise each sentence; I've been there. And then noticed I watched and commented a year ago. I went through saying 'I'm gay to my ex-wife' on 8 June 1997. We were married 23 May 1987. I came to faith on 18 September 1983. In the cast we have God, ourselves, the Church. The intersections of each are fascinating - past, present, future. I rejoice in the future. God never leaves the stage. Tanner; hope you are well, happy, growing, open, blessed, and ready for all that God will bring - and for amazing grace. His love never fails. As you know. .......... Trevor.