28 Comments
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Katie Donohue Tona's avatar

This was just beautiful. I was nearly brought to tears at times. I too have cried out “Why” to God. He has always been so kind and patient with my longing and my questions. Thank you for sharing this Tanner. And the poetry was true icing on the cake.

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Sierra Westerholm's avatar

Such a sweet story, and honest struggle... :') Thank you for sharing!!

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Anna Tran's avatar

Beautiful 🤍 thank you for finding words to write this even when it was hard to. That poem too 😭 I now have no words.

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Tanner Olson's avatar

:) thanks for reading Anna

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Chris McKinney's avatar

I always feel awkward when they ask the fathers to stand up in a service. As a Pastor, I know that I’m a spiritual father to many, but I can’t help overthinking it. Thank you for being vulnerable and sharing your story.

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Tanner Olson's avatar

Hi Pastor Chris! It doesn't sound like you're overthinking it. Sounds like you're thinking from a lot of different perspectives. These "special moments" during services can be quite hurtful and isolating to those who don't fit into the celebrated category. I always appreciate the pastors who acknowledge the day, but also include those who are wrestling with the heaviness and hurt that these days bring.

Just some thoughts. Maybe more than you wanted. Appreciate you.

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Paige's avatar

I feel seen. 🫶

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Tanner Olson's avatar

:) I'm so glad.

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Kitha Cockrell's avatar

Oh my goodness!!!! Tears! How blessed you are and how blessed your son is!!! ❤️

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Tanner Olson's avatar

I'm so happy to be his dad

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Sandy Washburn's avatar

Thank you for having the courage to let us know what your path to Fatherhood has been like. What an honor it is to say Happy 1st Father’s Day Tanner!

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Tanner Olson's avatar

Thanks Sandy :)

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Mimi A.'s avatar

Happy Father’s Day, Tanner.🤍

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Tanner Olson's avatar

Thanks Mimi :)

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Lori Whitaker's avatar

Happy Father’s Day. What an honor to read your words and pray for your family.

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Tanner Olson's avatar

Thank you for reading, Lori :)

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Suvi's avatar

Soo beautiful!

May the Lord bless you and your family and keep you as His goodness and mercies follows all the days of your lives ❤️

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Tanner Olson's avatar

Thanks, Suvi :)

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Lois Solinski's avatar

Beautiful.

Just, beautiful...

I don't expect you to remember me. I met you and your wife years ago, outside a breakfast place in Austin (was she your wife then? Don't think so.) We were with a big group. I have followed you since. God bless you and your Family.

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Tanner Olson's avatar

I remember y'all very well! Thanks for your kindness Lois :)

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Kimberly Kralovic's avatar

Beautiful words. Thank you for sharing your journey!

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Tanner Olson's avatar

Thanks for reading, Kimberly! :)

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Yvonne Glass's avatar

🥺😭🥺 ~ Thank you Tanner. Again, your words have undone me. So thankful little Judah will know and understand what a great gift he has been given. 🌹

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Tanner Olson's avatar

Thanks for reading, Yvonne :) I'm so happy to be Judah's dad.

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steve veasey's avatar

Man...I'm so grateful for you and being willing to share this journey. You're a voice for those who struggle to find their own. 🫶

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Tanner Olson's avatar

thanks Steve :)

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Kathy Izard's avatar

What a beautiful message of hope on Father's Day. Happy first Father's Day to you and that beautiful boy Judah--what a gift.

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Tanner Olson's avatar

Thanks Kathy :)

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