Rhyme and Reason with Tony Funderburk: Recent Episodes

Tony Funderburk

In each episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast, Tony Funderburk shares how life makes sense because God made you. He’s the author and publisher of 34 books for adults and kids and a songwriter with hundreds of songs to his credit. Get some free songs and a book for kids by jumping on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today.

OK kiddos from 3 to 103. I’ll just let you know, right up front, that I’m here for you. Because I know that you fit into one of these categories. You are the:

Cream of the crop
Top of the heap
Bee’s knees
Cat’s meow
Best thing since sliced bread

And maybe you’ve even come up with something else you think describes your effervescent and irresistible personality. If so, good for you. Or is it, good ON you these days? No matter.

You know what you are. We’ll leave it at that. Just know I’m here for you.And I bet just knowing that relaxes you to your very soul. Right? Yeah, because until I popped into your email inbox, you were fretting about something. And you know what they say about fretting, don’t you? Well, I don’t know what they say. But I’m sure it isn’t complimentary or reassuring.

Anyway…

Back to why and how I’m here for you.

I’m here for you because you need a break from the negativity, vulgarity, and instability of the news and the “newsmakers.” And you need a reason to smile, forget about who said what about whom, and just remember that God is gonna make everything beautiful, bright, and completely right again one fine day.

I had some special words I wanted to share with you about that. But I seem to have misplaced them. I’ve searched under my computer. Down the side of my desk. And even under my cap. But the words appear to have vanished into thin air (because nothing vanishes into thick air).

Well, there’s my quandary. My dilemma, plight, and predicament.

So, I scratch my head and ask:Did I put the words in a bag
With a tag that looks like a flag?
Did I stick the words in a shoe
Painted blue to make it look new?
Did I hide the words in a drum
Which, to some, could make me look dumb?
Did I let the words out the door
Where they’ll soar and come back no more?
Did I leave the words in my head
To be read by no one instead?
Nope, I found the words in my eyes,
So surprise! They’re here for you guys.

© 2014 Tony Funderburk

As always, thanks for joining me on another ride on the rails of Rhyme and Reason.

Before you go, jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon. And join the growing band of believers who enjoy my books, daily rhymes, songs, and videos about the Rhyme and Reason and power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

The post Here for you but what DID I do? appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Kris and Themum woke up to a thunderstorm filled with bright flashes of lightning. Thank goodness they had taken extra time to secure their tents and position them for protection. Because the thunderstorm turned into what Uncle Paulo would describe as “a real frog drowner.” But they weren’t gonna let a little rain put a damper on reaching the goal for the day.

Because the goal for the day was the ultimate hiker’s prize.The summit. The peak. A couple more vertical miles, and they’d see the tip-top of the goal they’d talked about for a long time. And they both thought about that as they fired up the little backpack grill to make breakfast and coffee.

Neither one said anything. Kris had pointed out, before they even started their climb, that he wasn’t a morning talker. And Themum said he just wasn’t a morning person, period. So, that worked out. Even though it sounds funny to say it, they could just enjoy the mountain sounds in silence.

After breakfast, and a jolt of adrenaline thanks to their Italian roast coffee, the guys gathered up their gear to get ready to press on.

And as most climbers (the honest ones at least) might tell you, they didn’t even fully understand WHY they pressed on. Because the thin air increased the challenge with each step up in elevation. So, it wasn’t like it was just a walk in the park.

But when set a goal, you gotta keep your eyes on the goal.Otherwise your mind, and aching muscles, can conjure up all kinds of reasons to turn back. And Kris and Themum certainly faced those distractions way up there above the tree line. But the awesome beauty of the summit, bathed in the orange-red-yellow glow of the morning sun, urged them forward.

After a few more switchbacks, the trail turned considerably narrower. And rockier.

As they approached a sharp turn, next to a wind-worn tree trunk, Themum felt a pebble in his hiking boot. So, he stopped to lean on the tree trunk for support and remove it. But just as he started to lift his foot to unlace the boot his other foot twisted slightly on another rock. And his hand slipped off the tree trunk. And he tumbled off the edge of the trail.

Kris had just made the sharp turn when he looked back to see Themum disappear over the edge. And, as you can well imagine, he dashed back down the trail to where his friend had fallen out of sight. He was afraid of what he might find. Or not find. But he quickly calmed that fear with faith.

“Themum!” he called out.

And thankfully Themum replied, “I’m right down here. Good thing there was a shrub to break my fall. But it’s pretty small. And I don’t know if it can hold me for long.”

So, Kris answered back, “OK, don’t worry. I’ll help you get back up here.”

And with that promise, Kris quickly looked around for something to hand down to his friend. There wasn’t much to choose from. But he DID find one solid limb, about 4 feet long, that looked like it had fallen off that wind-worn tree.

Then, he carefully approached the edge of the trail again.“Ok, buddy. I’m gonna hand you a branch to grab on to. Can you do that without falling?” he asked.

Themum answered, “Yeah, I think so. But I think we’d better hurry. The roots of this shrub seem to be shifting around a little bit.”

So, Kris grabbed on to another shrub with his left hand and lowered the branch down to his friend. And it was a good thing the branch was about 4 feet long. Because they needed every inch of it.

“Now, we’ve gotta sync up just right, buddy,” Kris told Themum. “When I pull, you gotta get the best footing you can and push at the same time. Are you ready?”

Themum dug his right hiking boot into the ground and answered, “Ready!”

“OK,” said Kris. We’re one unit. One force. Keep your eyes up here. On three. One! Two!”

And they both grunted out, “THREE!”Kris pulled the limb. Themum pushed into the ground and reached up to grab another root. And they repeated those moves a few more times till Themum was safely back on the trail. They both laid there in the warm sunlight, breathing deeply, and saying silent prayers of thanks. Because they had combined their efforts into one force, they got the job done right.

In case you’re wondering, yes, they DID go on to the summit. And they enjoyed reaching the goal they had weeks before. There were selfies. And pats on each other’s backs. Plus, they had a nail-biting adventure story they could share with their kids and grandkids.

Aren’t you glad you don’t have to rescue anybody off a mountainside today? And aren’t you glad you can just share stories with kids and grandkids the easy way? Just by going to the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop.

Yeah, do that today. And join the growing band of believers who enjoy my books, daily rhymes, songs, and videos about the Rhyme and Reason and power of God’s love.

I can see a dip in the mountainside
Where the wind shakes the pines like a rattle,
But no matter where I roam or ride
I dream best in the cool windy saddle.

Stay tuned…

The post The goal, the prize, and where to point your eyes appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

OK, you’ll enjoy this story much more if you use your best Irish or Scottish accent as you read. Even if you read it to yourself and you don’t read it out loud. You’re already doin’ it. Aren’t ya? Yeah, the way that power of suggestion works is a mystical phenomenon.

And speakin’ of a mystical phenomenon.Have you ever heard of the Blue Celtic Cloud?

Some say it’s not just a vapor. Not just part of the sky. And some will swear the Blue Celtic Cloud is even more than just a mystical phenomenon. They’ll swear it’s a living, shimmering “entity” that floats above the verdant highlands and rugged coastlines of Eire.

In fact, I heard a story about it. And I’ll share the story with you now. Word for word.

(by the way, your accent is delightful)

Anyway…

Rhiannon, a young druidess, was the guardian of the aforementioned Blue Celtic Cloud. She had inherited this sacred duty from her grandmother, Maeve. And Maeve had whispered tales of the cloud’s power into Rhiannon’s ears ever since she was a child.

Maeve told her the Blue Celtic Cloud was no ordinary puff of vapor. Not at all. Because it contained the dreams and hopes of the Celtic people. And it could transform those dreams and hopes into healing rain to nourish the earth and all who with open hearts to music.

And one crisp morning, during the last few days of Spring, as a mist kissed the heather-covered hills, Rhiannon felt a drop of water on her forehead. The Blue Celtic Cloud was swirling with a luminous energy. Even as the rest of the world was quiet and still.

Emerald greens, rich purples, and sunlit golds shined from within.So, Rhiannon chanted ancient incantations she learned from her grandmother. And the Blue Celtic Cloud descended and surrounded her in a soft, glowing mist.

A gentle rain began to fall. But the strange thing about it was that Rhiannon didn’t get wet. Because the rain fell directly into her heart. Or at least it felt that way. And she could also feel the dreams and hopes of the Celtic people as beautiful music also found its way to her heart. And, without even realizing it, the song made her smile.

It sure was a whimsical, wonderful mystical phenomenon. But sadly, Rhiannon had no one to share the song with. So, she sang it to the Blue Celtic Cloud. And she asked the Cloud to send it to someone, someday, some way, who could and would pass it on to others.

And the Blue Celtic Cloud promised to do just as she asked.Finally, hundreds of years later, the Cloud found an unsuspecting, but willing, songwriter to write down the words and compose the song.

And that’s how the ninth song on my Lullabye Bye collection of lullaby songs for kids came about. Cross my heart and hope to fly.

Listen to a sample of “Blue Celtic Cloud,” as well as all the other songs in the Lullabye Bye collection here: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VV4pKjLJWgg)

And it shouldn’t take a mystical phenomenon for you to jump on over to the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop to get your special kids their very own Lullabye Bye coloring, drawing songbook. And did I mention, there’s a link, in the book, to download all the songs?

Well, there is. So, download your Lullabye Bye book in the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop right now.

Stay tuned…

The post Mystical phenomenon, in this song, goes on and on appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I’m not a fan of hot weather conditions. Yeah, there’s a pun hiding in plain sight, there. But I’m not gonna pun-ish you, more, right now. If you’ve been staying inside to lounge in the coolness of air conditioning, believe me, I’m with ya man. And it IS a manly thing to do. Here’s why.

Hot weather conditions can wring rhymes right out of the air.At least they can for the writer who dares to relax in the air conditioning with his (or her, and those are the only two choices) head in the metaphorical clouds. Oh, and his mind off things that don’t matter.

Aye, as they say in olde Arland (that’s Irish phonics for Ireland), and that’s just what I allowed m’self ta do just a sprinklin’ over 10 years ago. And the result is this Rhyme Time riddle. Forget the hot weather conditions for a few minutes. And see if the wee lads and lassies can solve it and tell me…

Where I Am NowCan you guess where I am now?
I am hiding in plain sight.
You might think I’m in the grass,
And you’d almost be just right.

But the grass is just close by.
It can see me. So can you,
If you know right where to look…
If you read this riddle through.

I’m in something you might love
And on something you might see
In the front yard or in back.
Take a look and you’ll see me.

Little bugs crawl on my face,
And some worms dig down inside.
Where my wrinkles crinkle up,
There are places they can hide.

But now here’s a little twist…
I am somewhere else as well.
In a puppy? In a dog?
Read this riddle…it will tell.

If that puppy sees a cat
Climbing up the Aspen bough,
Then the clues will all be there
Showing you where I am now.

© 2013 Tony Funderburk

Before you go, jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon. And join the growing band of believers who enjoy my books, daily rhymes, songs, and videos about the Rhyme and Reason and power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

The post Hot weather conditions, poetic transitions appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I bet your name is NOT Titus. Because that’s not one of the more common names these days. At least not in English speaking countries. But, according to some information I found, Titus was once “one of the most common first names in the old world.”

(HEY KIDS: be sure to read through this whole post. Because, if you do, you can win a chance to get your name in one of my books of Rhymes and Reasons.)

I think it’s fair to say uncommon names can certainly make a mark.And there’s a lot of info that says the name, Titus, means something like “title of honor.” Even if you don’t speak Greek or Latin or some other old language, it seems pretty easy to make that connection. Some other connections people have made with the name Titus include:

Honor
Strength, and
Leadership.

And some say that people who are named Titus are “thought to be confident, assertive individuals who possess great charisma and the ability to inspire and lead others. They are often seen as natural leaders, with a strong sense of responsibility and a deep sense of duty to those they love.”

Maybe those are some of the qualities the Apostle Paul saw in his follower, Titus. And Paul wrote Titus a letter which became one of the “books of the Bible.” The letter/book is pretty short. But Paul wrote it to offer Titus some encouragement and wisdom.

And Paul told Titus how to complete his assigned job of establishing elders for the churches under his care. Paul described how these leaders should be. Plus, he wanted Titus to know how all believers should relate to each other. And know how to be and act with nonbelievers, too.

All with a base in Grace.So, here’s your challenge. And your chance to get some fame for your name. Even if it’s one of the uncommon names.

All you gotta do, is read Paul’s letter to Titus. It’s a very short letter. So, it won’t take you much time to get through it. And somewhere in the letter is the answer you’ll need to fill in the final word that finishes the rhyme below. Think you can do it? If so, be sure to leave a comment with your answer.

Here’s the rhyme:

Obey the ones who are in charge,
And speak no evil when
You’re under their authority.
Be humble with all ____________

There’ll be other challenges. So, there’ll be other chances to get your name in one of my upcoming books of Rhymes and Reasons. If you wanna get a jump on the competition and know when the next one is, jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon.

That way they’ll come to you, and you won’t have to go lookin’ for ’em.

Stay tuned,

The post Common names and simple claims appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I remember watching certain kinds of sci-fi movies, way back in decades past, that showed unbelievable scenarios for the future. But here we are, IN that future, and some of those things actually came true. One thing, in particular, is how easy it has become to terminate people just because they annoy you.

Yeah, it has become acceptable to terminate people of ALL ages.Starting in the womb.

Your own internet browser will give you the evidence for this. They’re called “suggestions.” Type something into your browser search bar. You don’t even have to type the whole phrase “terminate people.” Just type the word, terminate. Then, add a space. And then start to go through the alphabet. You won’t have to go past A to find the evidence I’m talking about.

Because one of the “suggestions” after you type “terminate a” is “terminate a pregnancy.” The other suggestions include contract, lease, and process. No problem. But then there’s pregnancy. Why is that a suggestion? Because that’s what people search for.

And that’s because nobody wants to do a search for “how to kill a baby in the womb.” That just sounds so bigoted, hateful, and mean. Why would anybody say that about a terminated pregnancy? They must be old or republican or something.

But have you noticed how many people act as thought they don’t even know what that is in a mother’s womb? And that’s in spite of the fact that ultrasound technology has made it SO simple to see it’s a baby.

So, what’s the problem, in these “more enlightened” days?It has turned into a debate over location and connection.

One of the main reasons so many people are comfortable calling a baby in the womb just a “lifestyle choice” is the baby’s location. In the womb.

You’d have to be willfully ignorant (aka: X-tra Stupid), to see a woman who’s 6 months pregnant and not know what’s making her belly protrude. (side note: I know the explosion of grossly obese women has blurred this distinction a little. But the point stands.)

Anyway…

Point is, even if you’re a person who CHOOSES to act stupid, you know what it means when a woman is pregnant. There’s a baby in there.

So, when you “terminate pregnancies,” you terminate people. Period.

And if you support the murder of the most innocent human beings, where will you draw the line? The answer is, you won’t draw a line. Because you’re willing to buy into the idea that murder is an actual solution to problems.

So, since you can terminate an “unplanned pregnancy” it’s only a short step terminating people you disagree with or don’t like.

And one of the most disagreeable, unlikeable people you’re likely to run across is someone who holds the opposite political opinions.

You might have seen that in action on July 13th.I haven’t been a Donald Trump supporter because of his willingness to compromise on the termination of babies whose fathers were criminals. And his willingness to turn his head when it comes to certain other issues that, let’s say, don’t meet with God’s approval.

That being said, I DO believe Mr. Trump is an American patriot on a fairly high level. But even if I disagreed with him on everything, including his compromise on abortion, it would never enter my mind to want him terminated.

I don’t even want that despicable, poor excuse for a human being, who currently occupies the big white house in Washington, D.C. to be terminated by a bullet. I WILL rejoice when I see God’s vengeance on him and all other God haters one day, though.

But someone decided it would be fine to put a bullet in Donald Trump’s head. And that person, with the backing of who knows who, came within an inch or two of doing exactly that.

Oh how I wish that close call would clarify Mr. Trump’s respect for human life. I wish he’d think, “Wow, that bullet zing across my ear hurt bad. I can only imagine what an unborn baby must feel when those cold steel clamps tear his or her arms and legs off. We’ve got to abolish abortion.”

But, sadly, I believe the close call will be another self-serving opportunity.And if Donald’s brush with death helps seal a win for him this November, at least he won’t destroy America the way Joke Biden has. But without a connection to the True moral compass of the one, true, living, loving Creator, NO administration will save America from destruction.

Trump will possibly slow down the process, somewhat. But a nation that kills 3000 innocent babies every day, and teaches evolution in government indoctrination camps, will not last. And America has already been doing that for 50 years and more. Time is running out.

My audience is very small, compared to the population of the world. But thanks to internet technology, my message can be seen and heard around the globe. So, if you see or hear this, I hope it inspires you to do what you can to share the saving grace of Jesus.

Because as long as the idea that it’s OK to terminate people grows, you have a bullseye on your head, too. And you don’t have a secret service team to shield you from the assassin’s bullet.

It’s all in this rhyme:Time is all you need to create
Evolution. There’s no debate.
And when fish turn into people, you’ll never need a steeple.
It’ll turn out fine. You just wait.

Before you go, jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon. And join the growing band of believers who enjoy my books, daily rhymes, songs, and videos about the Rhyme and Reason and power of God’s love.

Stay tuned,

The post Terminate people and forget the steeple appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Me: “Of course I’m pro public education. Why would you want to keep education a secret?”

A friend: “Actually pro public education means you’re all for public schools.”

“Wait, what?! Well, of course I’m not THAT kind of pro public education!”

A friend: “Whew, thank goodness. I thought you might be a closet Brandon dude.”

Yeah, that’s an actual conversation on the pro public education subject.That never happened. I just made it up to get you ready for this next rough stuff.

Because I know what it means. And I know it only means trouble for kids. And parents of kids. The only reason I even brought it up is because of some social media posts I saw today. Check out these samples. They’re all from accounts on X.

~ Joe Biden leads the most pro-public education, pro-union administration in modern history. His positive and caring vision for America is one that educators share, and we know he will continue to deliver for students and families.

That was a quote from someone who’s obviously blind, deaf, and stupid. Here’s another.

~ i’m a kindergarten teacher and every day I make my students choose new pronouns and when they recite the pledge of allegiance they have to say “pride flag” instead of “flag of the United States of America” and “gay” instead of “God”

Notice the horrible grammar and typos. OK, depending on who says what, that post either is one of the stupidest ever, or it came from a public school teacher parody account. Even if the parody account version is true, you can bet there are plenty of teachers in government indoctrination camps who “feel” (and write) that way.

And here’s another post that’s even worse.This “person” used a group of hashtags to send a despicable message out to the masses. Because they want to start their sexual orientation grooming of kids as early 3 and 4 years old.

pride #pridemonth #drag #beyou

earlychildhoodeducation

PrePrimary

learningthroughplay #art

Thankfully, there are social accounts who are out there fighting the fight. Like these two posting examples.

~ PSA: Don’t worry about the world’s standards for your kids. They are a failure, academically speaking, and are focused on pushing a culture of sex, racism, and socialism. Ditch the state. And raise counter-cultural children who read, write, and think with excellence.

I love that. Especially the part about counter-cultural children who read, write, and think with excellence.

And here’s the other post:

~ Our children deserve an environment that fosters true learning & critical thinking, not one that promotes fear & compliance. Public schools have shown time & again that they prioritize control over education.

That one tells the truth, but it focuses on the problem. Not the solution.Maybe you, or someone you know, is still on the fence about it. Maybe you’re still pro public education. I hope not. But as long as you breathe it’s not too late to do something incomparably amazing for kids. And that’s to homeschool them.

Here’s a hint that it’s a terrible idea to send them to government schools:

The government says it’s a good idea.

This isn’t a problem that comes from politicians with a D by their name. It’s an issue supported, in some way, by 99.9% of ALL politicians. And that means 99.9% are socialists.

Socialism is HERE now. Despite what ANY politician with ANY letter next to his or her name says. And if your government officials have anything to say about it, and they do, socialism isn’t the last step. So, they’ll keep pushing the pro public education agenda till they completely ruin this once great nation.

Now, I’m gonna take my own advice and not just focus on the problem.

Here’s solution in a rhyme:You might win a few things in this life,
And you might even win a whole lot.
But you’ll lose everything if you don’t trust the King
Who has given you all that He’s got.

Know that nothing is too hard for God.
He can help you through all of your fears.
If your gold turns to rust, or your diamonds to dust,
Only God can dry all of your tears.

Make the most of the moments you have.
They fly by in the blink of an eye.
Don’t waste time in the dark, jump inside of the ark
Of God’s love. Kiss the old life goodbye.

Before you go, jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon. And join the growing band of believers who enjoy my books, daily rhymes, songs, and videos about the Rhyme and Reason and power of God’s love.

Stay tuned,

The post Pro public education to ruin a great nation appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Have you ever made a rock? And how about a stick? Have you ever made one of those? Well, what about a drop of water? Surely you’ve at least made a drop of water in your life. And surely, somewhere, there’s a school science class where that has happened. Naturally, I don’t expect anyone to create a river. But surely at least one, single drop of water shouldn’t be that hard to do.

And if someone HAS made a drop of water, imagine how proud they are.I can almost see the headline: Whiz Kid Invents World’s First Drop Of Water In A Laboratory

Yeah, that whiz kid’s gonna be able to boast about that street cred for a long time.

OK, a rock, a stick, and water seem like simple things. But no whiz kid on earth can make even a grain of sand or a seed. Because only God can make those things.

And I bet you’re fine with that. Right? I’m sure you don’t mope around wishing you could invent dirt and stuff. Because it’s a lot more fun throwing rocks, lying in the sand, and splashing in the water. Especially on hot summer days.

But, if you COULD invent a drop of water, everybody would wanna be your friend. And before you knew it, you could brag about how you have a million friends. And think about how proud that might make you feel.

But you gotta watch out for that proud part.

Because that’s where a lotta trouble starts.So, maybe you’re not a science whiz kid. But let’s say win a running race. Or you paint a picture that wins first place at the art chow. Or maybe you write a hit song people love to listen to on the radio. Nothin’ wrong with any of that. But I recommend you don’t get all caught up in being proud of yourself.

It’s a much better idea to thank the Lord that He gave you strong legs to win the race. Or thank Him for giving you the talent and good eyes to paint a beautiful picture. Or good ears and skills to write music.

After all, God was the one who created you. He designed your muscles and bones and eyes and ears. He gave you a brain. And He gave your brain the power to think your own thoughts. Dream your own dreams. And even sing your own songs. No, you wouldn’t have any of those things without Him.

So, God must love you a lot to make so many wonderful things for you to enjoy. Right?

And just so you know, it’s fine for others who love you to be proud of you. They wanna see you do good and awesome things. Because that means you’re growing and getting better and better at what they helped you learn how to do.

But don’t forget. You didn’t invent art and music, or even that one drop of water I mentioned earlier. And you certainly didn’t invent YOU. So, stay humble. Don’t fall into the pride and proud trap.

Remember, there ARE some things God hates. And at the top of His list is “a proud look.”

So, my hope for you, today, is that you’ll go do some great things. AND give thanks to God.

And here’s a rhyme to help you remember:If you’re proud of yourself for the things you do,
Pretty soon no one wants to be around you,
‘Cause you’ll sound just like an old clanging bell
That is out of tune and doesn’t ring so well.
Give a nod to God with a thankful prayer.
Let Him know you’re glad that He’s always there.
And be glad for the gifts that He’s given you.
It’s because of Him you can do what you do.

Before you go, jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon. And join the growing band of believers who enjoy my books, daily rhymes, songs, and videos about the Rhyme and Reason and power of God’s love.

Stay tuned,

The post Drop of water from the clay not the potter appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Feelings change. It’s a fact of life. That was even true when I was a young whippersnapper, all those decades ago. I remember the first time I felt like I was in love with a girl. But, later, I felt like I was in love with another girl. It happened several times. What can I say? A red-blooded American boy is a boy after all.

And your feelings will (or did) change many times, too. So, that’s why you shouldn’t depend on feelings for the important things in life. And the most important thing in life is truth. And there are some things that are just plain true. It doesn’t matter how you feel about them. They’re still true.

One big truth is that God created only two genders of humans.

And because He did, a boy is a boy and a girl is a girl.And it will always be true. No matter how you or anyone might feel about it.

These days some boys wish they were girls. And they do awful, horrible things to their bodies. The same is true for girls. It may sound weird, but it’s true. There are people who try to change genders. And they have to take drugs, take shots with needles, and even have gross operations.

All those things hurt your body because it isn’t built to take that. And it hurts God’s feelings to see it happening. He knows how much it hurts a person.

There’s a place in the Bible where it says you’re made in God’s image. And God doesn’t make mistakes. He never puts any one in the wrong body. He puts you right where you need to be. But if you don’t trust Him or love Him, you might believe just about anything bad somebody says about Him. You might even believe (or feel like) it’s OK to be whatever gender you choose. But it’s not. It hurts you. In fact, it can even take you somewhere you truly do not want to go.

So…how about this?How about you read more about what God says about you? Because you’ll find out how unique He made you. And since God does that for you, who cares what anyone else says? God says you’re one-of-a-kind. You’re special. And He even knows how many hairs on on your head. He wants you to live forever. There’s only one way to do that. Trust in His Son, Jesus.

Jesus made you and He knows what’s best for you. And He made sure you could live with Him forever. And Jesus is the one who says what you’ll be. That’s why you should trust Him and not your feelings. He loves you. And there’s only one person who can ever change that. YOU.

Here’s a rhyme to help you remember…

There’s a life inside of you, and it comes from God,
And He wants you to live and to always enjoy
And remember He made you the person you are,
Yes, a girl is girl and a boy is a boy.

Stay tuned,

The post A boy is a boy and this isn’t a ploy appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Gonna talk about truth and mercy right now. So, get ready to take some mental notes. Yeah, put away those silly tablets and other writing accoutrement. Because I don’t want your brain distracted by an urgent need to jot notes.

The value of truth and mercy is too important to miss.So, before I go any further, I know your brain is already distracted by the grammar in my headline, “Truth and mercy for what him and her say.” Right? C’mon, admit it. Your first thought was to call the grammar police and report some noun/verb abuse. But, hopefully you remembered I’m Mister Tony, the Rhyme and Reason Guy. And you thought, “Hey, wait a minute. I bet Tony’s using his poetic license to make his headline rhyme.”

And I’m so glad none of this caused a ruckus we can’t overcome. So, on to the main point(s).

Have you ever been called a loser? I hope not. But if you have, I’m sure you remember how much it hurt. Right? People who call you a loser or some other name have already lost something. I bet you didn’t know that, did you? Yep, people like that have lost 2 things you should never lose. Would you like to know what they are? Keep reading…

There are a lot of things in this life you could lose and it wouldn’t make much difference. Your pencil. Your paper. And your bubble gum. But those are just thingy things. You can almost always get more thingy things. But there are other things much more important.

And here are the 2 things you should never lose:Truth and Mercy. Did you already guess? If so, you win a big pat on your back. Go tell someone I said to give you one.

And you know what mercy is. Right? It’s kinda like telling someone you’re not mad at them for breaking your toy. In fact, instead of getting mad at them, you tell them they can play with another one of your toys. You should try that sometime. You might be surprised to see what a big smile you could put on your friend’s face. Yeah, mercy is a pretty special thing. You should have a lot of it in you.

And I bet you know what truth is, too. Right? It’s what you say that can stand any test. And it’s the same for everybody. Let’s say I tell you the sun is bigger and hotter than the moon. Am I telling you the truth? Sure am. And isn’t it true for everybody who lives here on Earth. Sure is. Everybody can see the sun is bigger. And they can feel how much hotter it is. So, if I tell someone those things…I’m telling them the truth. It’s good to know some things are true for everybody.

It makes it easier to understand the world.There’s something that ties mercy and truth together. Do you know what that is? It’s love.

When you love somebody, it’s much easier to show mercy and say, “You can play with this toy even though you broke that one.” And when you love, you want to know truth…because you might be curious where love comes from. Don’t you think so?

Here’s the biggest reason why it’s important to know these 2 things you should never lose. Because when you have those things in YOUR heart, you win a place in God’s heart.

And winning a place in God’s heart is the best thing you could ever win because that lasts forever. Go share some Truth and Mercy today. I’m counting on you. And here’s a rhyme to help you remember…

Mercy and truth are lighted lamps
To help you find your way…
So with God’s help, go share your love
For others every day.

Get some music and a book sent your way real fast. Just jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon. And join a growing band of believers who enjoy my books, daily rhymes, songs, and videos about the power of God’s Love.

Stay tuned,

The post Truth and mercy for what him and her see appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Episode 929 of the Rhyme and Reason podcast is all about the demo. Back to the regular programming next time…

The post All about the demo appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

When I was a kid, way back before gigantic TV screens (and even remote controls), the Wizard of Oz movie came on once a year. I don’t know exactly what my parents thought about the movie. But the kids sure got a kick out of it.

But who knew the Wizard of Oz had so many double meanings?I certainly didn’t. Plus, I just never gave it much more thought than how imaginative and colorful the movie was. And, unless you’re someone who thinks there’s hidden messages in everything, chances are you were the same way. The Wizard of Oz was just a movie that especially entertained kids. Right?

Well, I saw an article this morning that takes some of the main characters, in the Wizard of Oz, to a whole ‘nother level. And I haven’t spent any time trying to verify or nullify the validity of this article. I’m not going to either. Just thought it sounded interesting. And I thought you might, too. Here’s the article.

“The Straw Man represents that fictional ALL CAPS legal fiction, The PERSON. He wanted a brain but got a Certificate. The Birth Certificate.

The TIN (Taxpayer Identification Number) Man. He was a robotic avatar, who worked tirelessly until his body literally froze up and stopped functioning. The heartless and emotionless robot creature who worked himself to death. Because he had no heart or soul.

The Cowardly Lion was a bully, but was actually a true coward when someone stood up to him, like most bullies. He lacked true courage. And, in the end, the Wizard gave him an Official Recognition Award: Authority and Status.

The Wizard of Oz used magic, smoke, flames and holograms. But all of it were tricks and illusions to push fear and compliance to make people do what he commanded. The truth is the Wizard has NO real power and only used illusions to create false power and authority.

The Wicked Witch pushed fear through intimidation.She was after Toto. And she controlled the flying monkey police, the policy enforcers, and the mischievous demons. Those also represent the BAR Association who attack and control all the little people for the Great Crown Wizard, the crooked Bankers of Oz, obsessed with gold.

In the field of poppies, they were not REAL humans. So drugs had no effect on them. But Dorothy was drugged.

The Wizard of Oz was written at the time when Rockefeller and the Big Pharma began to take over medicine and education.

The Crown was actually the largest drug dealer. And, after their take-over of drug distribution in China, they began to expand all around the world.

Toto was what the Wicked Witch was really after. Toto in Latin means ‘in total.’ Toto exposed the Wizard of Oz and had no fear, despite being very small compared to the Great Wizard. So, no one noticed him.

Toto pulled the curtain on the Wizard and his magical scams. And that ‘curtain’ also signifies the End of an Act or scene! He pulled the curtain. And started barking until others paid attention, hypothetically giving everyone the ‘Red Pill.’

The curtain hid the corporate legal fiction and its false courts.

So, no matter how small your bark is, it can be heard!” -end of article-

OK, the best conspiracy theories are the ones that seem plausible.And knowing how the powers that be, in the world of arts and sciences, love to push their narrative du jour, this Wizard of Oz entrée isn’t so far-fetched. And here’s my poetic narrative of the day, for the kiddos:

Rainbow RidersRiding on a rainbow after all the raindrops fell,
Little rainbow riders didn’t hear the dinner bell.
So they kept on riding through the sky above the clouds,
High above the weather and away from all the crowds.

They could see the sailing ships and fishes in the sea.
They could see the pyramids and lands of mystery.
All the world was like a book with video and sound.
And they could turn the pages just by going ’round and ’round.

Little rainbow riders ride the rainbows till they fade.
Then, they land on earth and have a picnic in the shade.
They fill their bowls with berries and juicy melons too.
And fall asleep and dream of riding rainbows through the blue.

© 2013

Now, jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon. And be part of the growing band of believers who know life has Rhyme and Reason because God is Real.

Stay tuned,

The post Wizard of Oz might have had a cause appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Cow secretions and bee vomit. Yum, yum. I don’t know about you, but I’ll be goin’ back for seconds. Oh yeah! But first, here’s my desire as I share a little something with you today:

Let my teaching drop as the rain,
My speech distill as the dew,
As raindrops on the tender herb,
And as showers on the grass.

I can’t (and don’t) take credit for that most pleasant prose. Because it was written by Mo very many years ago. And Mo was the one who put the dude in Deuteronomy. He was inspired, by God, to give an account of how the nation of Israel came to be. And how that nation was God’s chosen people who actually betrayed Him repeatedly. The prose I just shared comes from a section in Deuteronomy known as “The Song of Moses.”

What’s that? You didn’t know Moses was a poetic guy? A songwriter? Well, you learn somethin’ new every day.

And now you know he’s the guy I called Mo.

So, what does any of this have to do with me comin’ back for seconds?Especially when we’re talkin’ about cow secretions and bee vomit.

Well, imagine you’re in a desert land. And it’s quite the understatement to call it a terrible place. Because you have virtually no hope of getting out. No food or water or shelter. And no idea which way to go. Then, out of the blue, a ghost appears and leads you to food. In fact, you walk into fields of juicy, tasty produce. Not only that, but the ghost shows you how to get honey and good fats from the ground.

If all that happened, you’d probably think you just hit the best lottery ever!

OK, now imagine that the scenario I just shared isn’t make-believe. Because the “ghost” is a real person. And the story I just told is based on a true story found in the Bible. It’s about how God took a man named Jacob and made him into a nation. And that nation is Israel. The story I told you to imagine goes like this:

“He found him in a desert land and in the wasteland, a howling wilderness; He encircled him, He instructed him, He kept him as the apple of His eye. As an eagle stirs up its nest, Hovers over its young, Spreading out its wings, taking them up, Carrying them on its wings, So the Lord alone led him, And there was no foreign god with him. He made him ride in the heights of the earth, That he might eat the produce of the fields; He made him draw honey from the rock, And oil from the flinty rock…”

If someone did all that for you, would you betray him?

My guess is, on some level, you probably would.Because, on some level, we all have. And that’s because of the lowest common denominator we all have. Selfishness. Somewhere inside you is your desire to be your own king. To handle everything YOUR way. And you either fight against that desire or you give in. Most give in. Reminds me of these lyrics from The Who:

Out here in the fields
I fight for my meals.
I get my back into my living.
And I don’t need to fight
To prove I’m right.
I don’t need to be forgiven.
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah

Don’t cry.
Don’t raise your eye.
It’s only teenage wasteland.

Yeah, that whole selfish concept of “I don’t need to be forgiven.” But, even though Pete Townshend didn’t realize it at the time, it’s actually that kind of selfishness that keeps you in the wasteland. Keeps you in the desert.

But there IS a Way out of that desert and into the land of cow secretions and bee vomit.

I keep saying that to poke fun at so-called “nutrition influencers.”That’s their descriptions of milk and honey. Cow secretions and bee vomit. But God inspired Mo (aka: Moses) to call the “promised land” the “land of milk and honey. And that was a description meant to entice. Not repulse. And if God says something is good, it is good.

This is just one of the many reasons why the Bible is the bestselling book of all time.

And I’m convinced that, if you read it with an open mind and heart, it will change your teenage wasteland heart to one full of love, purpose, and focus. Plus, I believe you’ll love the amazing force of life you can feel, when you KNOW you’re gonna live forever in paradise.

And don’t be surprised, once you’ve discovered the truth I’m talking about, how you’ll want to go back for seconds. And thirds, fourths, fifths, etc.

Dig deep and find the treasures for your heart.
The Bible is the perfect place to start.
And as the words unfold, revealing love and gold,
The life God gave you never will depart.

Now, jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon. And be part of the growing band of believers who wanna show the world that life has Rhyme and Reason because God is Real.

Stay tuned,

The post Back for seconds because the bee beckons appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Guy walks up to the bar and orders, “Gimme a Helix, bartender. And make it a double.” I know you’ve heard of the Double Helix. It packs a powerful punch. But there’s no hangover the next morning. Maybe that’s because it’s filled with Deoxyribonucleic Acid.

“Yeah! Don’t be stingy with the Deoxyribonucleic Acid in my Double Helix, bartender!”That’s such a tongue-twisting mouthful. Surely, there’s a quicker way to say it. Hmm. I kinda like DNA. What say we go with that? All in favor? Great! The eyes have it (yes, I meant to say “eyes”).

Alright, let’s get your mind out of the bar for a minute or two. And let’s talk about how DNA is scientific proof you and I are fearfully and wonderfully made by the one, true, living, loving God of creation. Not merely carbon copies of carbon lifeforms. Even the term “carbon lifeforms” contradicts itself. But, right now I’m gonna share some tidbits of information about information I shared several years ago. It bears repeating. Because it’s inside you right now.

In almost all of the 30,000,000,000,000 (that’s trillion, by the way) cells in your body there are duplicate copies of your DNA. Each human cell contains 46 segments. You got 23 segments from your mom and 23 from your dad. No one else on Earth has the same DNA as you. Cool, huh? Well, here’s something even cooler.

All that information in your DNA is a blueprint for how to build the one and only YOU. The blueprint contains the information on how you’ll look, much of how you’ll act, and how every cell in your body will function during your life.

And here’s some more interesting factoids.* The DNA from one of your cells, uncoiled, connected, and stretched out would be about 6 feet long. * It would be so thin you couldn’t see it. Not even with the most powerful microscope in existence today. * The coded information found inside that cell could fill a library with somewhere around 4,000 books. * And if you took all the DNA in your body and stretched it out end-to-end, you could go to the moon and back more than 165,000 times.

That’s mighty impressive. But, how about this?

The information found in your DNA could fill the Grand Canyon almost 30 times, if you put it in books. And yet…you could take one set of DNA from one cell of every person who ever lived, put them all in a spoon, and they’d weigh less than an aspirin.

So, how could anyone actually THINK about the complex information inside us and not believe in God?

I love knowing we’re created. And not just an accident that rose up out of nothing.No matter what you believe about how life started, you’ve made a choice to believe it.

No one (at least virtually no one) is being forced to believe how we all got here.

My question is this.

Why would you want to believe you’re just the random result of trillions of mutations? Especially when there’s so much information inside you to the contrary. Because you’re an information-based life form. And that information, coded into your DNA, proves there must be a super coder.

The good news is…that coder is the Creator who loves you. He made you a human being. In His image and likeness. And He allows you to choose to love Him in return. Or not. So, have another Double Helix. And choose wisely.

You are fearfully and wonderfully made.
There is information locked inside your cells.
When you choose to discover why you’re here,
You’ll find out what the information tells.

And you’ll see you’re not just an accident
Fumbling through the hours, and days, and weeks, and years.
All the evidence is pointing out the way.
Trust your Maker. He’ll erase your doubts and fears.

(facts and figures from “In the Beginning” by Dr. Walt Brown)

Jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon and be part of the growing band of believers who wanna show the world that life has Rhyme and Reason because God made us.

Stay tuned,

The post Double Helix in a delicious mix appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Here’s a list of words, found in a thesaurus, you can exchange for one other widely used word. I bet you can guess the word: develop, progress, advance, move forward, make headway, mature, grow, open out, unfold, unroll, expand, enlarge, spread, extend; alter, change, transform, adapt, metamorphose, differentiate – Did you guess evolve?

Yeah, evolve is the word of the century.People LUV to use that word. And it’s not an evil word. So, this isn’t what I’d call THE issue of the day. But I find it interesting how everything from hair salons to food companies to pet products to marketing businesses use the word, evolve, in their name. Especially when there are so many synonyms just as enticing.

As a matter of fact, I just read two short articles about quirky so-called “national holidays.” These two are both “observed” today, May 22nd. National Buy An Instrument Day. And National Vanilla Pudding Day. Now, I have nothing against either one of these. In fact, I’d be willing to celebrate them both. Because I love music AND vanilla pudding.

But check out these snippets from the stories of how we got these holidays:

“Archaeological studies and remains show that musical instruments have evolved over time. Each generation improved the designs and creations that came before it until we arrived at the instruments of today.”

And…

“This dish was common in the Middle Ages and the traditional pudding has evolved a great deal over time.”

Probably just a coincidence.But, as I doublechecked the info, I got the distinct impression that multiple articles were generated by “artificial intelligence.” Because they sound so automated. And it’s probably no big deal. I mean, you probably couldn’t care less. And, by now, you’re wondering why you stuck around to read this far.

So, I better leave you with something more entertaining. Forget about those other notions. Put them out of your mind completely. You and I can do that because we’ve evolved to the point of having control of our minds. Cool, right?

OK, so here’s a rhyme to redeem your time:

Sugar Coated Serenity

The road led to a magic place
With icy clouds of marmalade
In skies of azure butter mints
And honey-sweetened lemonade.
I found a house of chocolate
And nougat-filled divinity.
Faith, Hope, and Love are keys to this
Sugar coated serenity.

© 2024

Jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon and be part of the growing band of believers who wanna show the world that life has Rhyme and Reason because God made us.

Stay tuned,

The post Evolve or devolve? Will the whole world dissolve? appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

You’ve probably experienced faith and doubt at the same time. It’s OK to admit it because it’s part of your human flaws. I know. How dare I say you have flaws, right? Easy. Because everybody does.

I talk about the Apostle Paul a lot. And that’s because he’s the best example of where you and I are right now. And he expressed his concerns about his own ways when he wrote to the new Christians in Rome. Check out what he said and see if you detect yourself in his words:

“…we know that the law is spiritual, but I am carnal, sold under sin. For what I am doing, I do not understand. For what I will to do, that I do not practice; but what I hate, that I do. If, then, I do what I will not to do, I agree with the law that it is good. But now, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me. For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells; for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find. For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice. Now if I do what I will not to do, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me.”

And a few lines later, you can see those weren’t just idle thoughts. Paul was so deeply affected by that inner conflict that he said, “O wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death?” Yikes!

Yeah, flaws, like the ones Paul described, can allow doubt seep into your mind. That doubt can affect your day, your decisions, and your dreams. And that’s even if you’ve expressed a true faith in the One who made you. I’m not talking about the skepticism kind of doubt, the kind of uncertainty of how we even got here.

No, this is about Christian faith. And doubt in yourself or your future.Uncertainty and insecurity can sneak into your life if you don’t watch out. Regardless of that, I want you to know it’s not an unforgivable sin for that to happen in your life. But doubt can grow when you focus on it instead of the solution.

Faith and doubt are mentioned, a lot, in the Bible.

Doubt is often referred to as fear, or a lack of courage, or unbelief. But, no matter what kind of doubt it is, the solution is always presented as faith. God wants you to have courage. He wants you to be powerful and loving. And He gives you the tool to get the job done.

His word.

His word is also called “the sword of the Spirit.” It’s an invisible sword, more powerful than brass, iron, or steel. And yet it’s sharp enough to “divide soul and spirit.” Wow, that’s difficult to even imagine.

Anyway…

Here’s my main point. I just want you to know that if you’re bouncing back and forth between faith and doubt, it means you’re doing something wrong. Not evil, but wrong. And it’s probably that you put most of your trust in yourself. But that’s leaning on limited understanding. And certainly not trusting in the Lord with all your heart.

There are successful people who don’t trust in the Lord. That’s undeniably true.

But what profits will you enjoy if you gain the whole world and lose your soul?

Most millionaires and billionaires go to hell.

I’m not picking on wealthy people because most poor people are going to hell, too. Because most PEOPLE are not going to Heaven. For one stupid reason. They choose not to go. If you have any doubt about where you’ll go if you die today, I suggest putting your faith in Jesus. Without Him, you face a life full of…

False MovesI seem to make so many false moves.
So many have misunderstood.
I guess I must expect the worst results,
And I’d deal with them, if I could.

False moves, like shadows, fall behind.
You might go look for them, but they’re difficult to find.
False moves, like liquor, bring a sense of doubt.
So hard to live with, and so easy to live without.

I always seem to see the empty spots
And fill them up with simple words,
But when I think I’ve got the right idea,
It disappears like Autumn birds.

I sit and dream of traveling so far,
And then I end up standing still.
Part of me says that I will make it.
Part of me says I never will.
False moves”

© 1978 Tony Funderburk

Since I referenced Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, I’m gonna share a link to my own lyrical perspective on that book of the Bible. It’s called “Rhyme and Reason in Ephesians.” Get a digital copy from your choice of stores:

https://books2read.com/u/baEaeP

Stay tuned,

The post Faith and doubt and what you might leave out appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I’ve lived several decades on this little blue planet. And, as long as I can remember I’ve heard people talk about world peace. And I’ve heard and seen the world peace news on radio and TV. But the world seems to always snatch war from the jaws of peace every time. Have you noticed that?

During my time on Earth there have always been wars. We’ve been fortunate here in America. Because we haven’t seen actual war on our soil for a long time. But I figure it’s only a matter of time. Especially since hostile invaders cross our borders every day unvetted.

Anyway…

I don’t believe (although I wish) the world peace news is gonna change any time soon.And that’s because most people refuse to allow the peace of God to rule in their hearts. Probably because they don’t like how the peace of God isn’t based on arbitrary human emotions. It’s based on Truth and Life. And most people believe “your truth is yours” and “my truth is mine.” Same people who love to say “love is love.” Yeesh.

When you understand you had a beginning designed by the Creator of all things, you can begin to understand the importance real Truth and Life. And it’s basic. It’s fundamental. It’s simple. Truth exists because God exists. And God is the source of all life. You can know that you know. And that knowledge gives peace you can’t find anywhere else.

Unfortunately, most people don’t give a rip about that peace.They’d rather wander, ignorantly, through their life. Searching for answers based on their preconceived notions. Or, worse, their flawed learning process (translation: public schooling). And they choose to live esoteric, experiential lives. But that’s a dark, rocky road, with treacherous turns, that leads to the center of the Earth.

Yeah, I’m one of those wacky Christians who believes in right and wrong. And I take the road less travelled. The road that leads to the narrow gateway to Heaven. But I have at least one thing that no unbeliever will ever have. The world peace news that’s above and beyond human comprehension.

Good news is, it’s a free gift from God.

Ironically, in the world of advertising, the word “free” tends to increase sales and profits. But a free gift from God tends to cause eyes to glaze over and hearts to harden.

I’m sure glad that’s not you and me. Can I get an Amen?

Spoon-feed the apathy and watch it grow
Into the cold hard truth.
And if you never care, then you will never know.
It’s such a cold hard truth!

(from my song, “Cold Hard Truth”)

Jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon and be part of the growing band of believers who wanna show the world that life has Rhyme and Reason because God made us.

Stay tuned,

The post World peace news just in. Same as it’s ever been. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Your life design is unique. No one else who ever lived, is living now, or will ever live will have the same life as you. But your life is also no different from anybody else either. Here’s what I mean. And why it matters.

The DNA found in every cell of your body is incredibly complex and completely yours. The odds that it exists by chance are so small, you’d be more likely to win the powerball AND get struck by lightning on 3 birthdays in a row.

Yeah, your living, loving Creator gave you your life design.And He put the code inside you that makes sure no one else will be you. So, are you starting to realize how special you are? Great.

But here’s the other side of the coin…

You’re not so special, unique, or one-of-a-kind when it comes to how your life plays out.

Because you’ll experience awesome days and disappointing days. You’ll have to go through pain. And you’ll enjoy great pleasures. You will. And so will about seven billion other people. So did countless other people throughout history. It’s life.

But just because God gave you your life design doesn’t mean He designed how you’d live out your life.

That’s why you’ll find forks in roads where you’ll have to choose a direction, an option, a judgment call. Because, in your life design, God gave you a brain to use. A mind to store data and make options based on using that data well.

So, what’s the best way to make wise choices when you find one of the forks in the road? It depends on who you’re willing to trust for help. Do you think your best friends have the solution? How about mom? Or dad? Those can be good choices. But what if they’re not available when you’re faced with a situation that needs a “right away” answer?

Who can you turn to in those times?I suggest that same living, loving Creator I mentioned before.

Remember, He designed you. He formed you in your mother’s womb. And He installed that unique code inside you. He knows what makes you tick. And He’s available 24 hours a day. Every day of your life. And He’s as close as your breath. In fact, He’s closer. He’s the Spirit of Life. For you, me, and everyone who wants him to be. Without Him nobody would exist. And His word is how you get to know Him and discover His advice for those forks in your road.

God’s word says you can plan your way. And it says He will direct your steps. That means He won’t make your decisions for you. And He didn’t plan your life for you. But when you trust Him, He won’t lead you the wrong way. He’ll lead you the direct way. That means you’ll get where you need to be.

Here’s a challenge for you.

Give up self-trust today. Read God’s word even more to understand your life design. Especially Paul’s writings, from Romans through Philemon, in the New Testament. Because Paul’s message is the most relevant part of the Bible for what’s going on right now.

OK, here’s a rhyme to share with kids about their life design.

Your Story MattersInside a trillion tiny cells,
Where no one’s eyes can see,
A trillion times your story flies
On sparks of energy.

That energy is life itself,
The fire to light your way,
To write your story and to live
And love someone today.

Be thankful for your source of life
And bow or smile and nod
Because your story matters most,
When it reveals our God.

© 2013

Jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon and be part of the growing band of believers who wanna show the world that life has Rhyme and Reason because God made us.

Stay tuned,

The post Your life design is not the same as mine appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

A perilous fight in perilous times will not sway these reasons and rhymes.

My wife and I never had kids. But we love kids. And we enjoy their imaginative outlook on life. That’s why I write music for kids, ebooks for kids, and create illustrations and videos for kids. I want them to enjoy words and music and pictures and be safe and loved.

But kids, today, are in for a perilous fight.There’s a very good book that talks about this. It mentions how so many men only love themselves, or money, or pleasure. And it talks about how they become boastful, full of false pride, unthankful, unloving, unforgiving, brutal, and despising anything good.

Those same “grownups” end up raising disrespectful and disobedient kids. No surprise. And these days you can say the term “disobedient kids,” and be ridiculed for using that description.

But what those naysayers don’t realize is that an obedient, respectful kid is awesome. And he or she is almost always one who is (or has been) raised in a happy home. A home where discipline is dealt out fairly and with love.

But most kids aren’t empowered with a moral compass. So, they don’t understand truth that can be trusted not to change with the election of a new class of politicians. Truth that can be trusted not to change with the passing of another million laws. And Truth that can be trusted not to change because it isn’t cool anymore. And, tragically, that means the few kids whose parents teach them about Truth, will be in for a perilous fight.

Because they’ll see how much this world hates them.

I want all kids, from the moment they are conceived, to be loved.And with a love that surpasses mere human understanding. A love that doesn’t merely give them a cola and a smile and a hug. I’m talkin’ about a love that guards their spirit forever. And I know that even saying this I risk losing a large potential audience for my words and music. But I also know not saying it risks so much more.

If you’re raising kids (or know someone who is) these (and future) perilous times, equip yourself for every good work. And look up. Because one day the clouds will carry our Hope.

And this is for the kids…

Hopes and dreams and honey sunbeams
And blue sky butterfly thoughts,
Musical notes shine in your heart like
Gossamer, gold polka dots.
I wish life was filled with those things,
And void of self-centered screams.
But since it’s not I’m thankful God
Still reigns in my hopes and dreams.

© 2020

You should jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon and be part of the growing band of ne’er-do-wells who understand that life has Rhyme and Reason and is filled with hope because God made us.

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The post Perilous fight for what is right appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

When you take God out of the equation, the question of “right and wrong” is a moot point. It isn’t objective morality at that point. It’s opinion. And guess what? If your opinion differs from mine, all you have to do to win the day is be the stronger one. That’s the “beauty” of natural selection in process.

It’s interesting how often those who reject God have no problem using the word “absolute.” By whose authority would anything be absolutely true or right or acceptable, if not God? Well, the god of “self” of course.

But here’s the trouble with that notion.

It’s either objective morality, or subjective morality of billions of “selfs” on the planet.That’s a lot of potential for differences of opinion. So whose opinion wins? The more educated? Or the more enlightened? And how about the stronger, more visually appealing of the races?

It’s a rabbit hole with no bottom when you erase the one true, living loving God from the equation. He doesn’t wish that any person should perish (exist apart from Him) forever. But He’s fully aware that the vast majority of humans want no part of Him and His “rewards and punishments” system.

And they don’t want that because it means objective morality doesn’t depend on their opinion.

So, you have your choice between two places where you can go and be forever. One of them is a place where you won’t have to listen to, watch, or read any words from us pesky Christians ever again. And you’ll never have to debate any of us ever again on ideas like objective morality, natural selection, or creationism.

What a relief that’ll be right?Well, it’ll only be a relief if your atheist worldview is correct.

The other forever destination will also be a place where you won’t have to listen to, watch, or read any words from us pesky Christians ever again. And you’ll never have to debate any of us ever again on ideas like objective morality, natural selection, or creationism. But THAT will be because no one there will disagree on those topics. And not because it’s a place filled with automatons. Far from it. It’ll be paradise. A place where Truth is clearly seen from the apex of Life to the very center core of every cell of creation.

That place will be Heaven. Where you can live forever with the one true, living, loving Creator of us all. Good news is, it’s a free gift. And if even that doesn’t appeal to you, there’s still good news. No one will force you to go there. The choice is entirely yours.

So, my recommendation is to choose wisely. Speaking of wise choices…

You should jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon and be part of the growing band of ne’er-do-wells who understand that life has Rhyme and Reason because God made us.

Get WiseDon’t drink the wine of violence
Or eat the bread of hate.
You might just get away with it.
Can you afford to wait?
Don’t push and shove the simple, and
Seek knowledge just like gold.
And in so doing you’ll lay up
Your treasures manifold.
A word to the confounded…
Pour light into your eyes.
If you expect more than neglect,
Get wisdom; yeah get wise.
Get wise to the deceiver.
Don’t harken to his lies.
Keep commanding understanding.
Get wisdom; yeah get wise.
Don’t walk, you, with the wicked.
Beware the scornful tongue.
Let never part your loving heart
And live forever young.

© 1995

Stay tuned…

The post Objective morality is an observable reality appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

You can’t recycle away stupid. And today I’m gonna share a story you might’ve seen elsewhere. But it bears repeating. Because it shows the increased ignorance in younger people today. And it shows how, typically, the people who shout “don’t judge” the loudest are the most judgmental.

Anyway. Here’s the story I saw. Feel free to recycle away.A young cashier told an older woman that she should bring her grocery bags because plastic bags weren’t good for the environment.

The woman apologized to him, “We didn’t have this green thing back in my day.”

The young clerk said, “Your generation didn’t care enough to save our environment for future generations.”

So, the woman gave him a firm stare and a hard grin and said, “Back then, we returned milk bottles, soda bottles, and beer bottles. And the store sent them back to the plant to be washed sterilized and refilled. That way they could use the same bottles over. Then, they were recycled.

Grocery stores bagged our groceries in brown paper bags. And we reused them for numerous things. We walked upstairs because we didn’t have an escalator in every store and office building. And we walked to the grocery store. Plus, we didn’t climb into a 300-horsepower machine every time we had to go two blocks.

Back then, we washed the baby’s diapers. Because we didn’t have the throwaway kind. We dried clothes on a line in the sunshine. Not in an energy-gobbling machine burning up 220 volts. So, wind and solar power did dry our clothes back in our day. Kids got hand-me-down clothes from their brothers or sisters. Not always brand-new clothing.

And back then, we had one TV, or radio, in the house.Not a TV in every room. By the way, the TV had a small screen the size of a handkerchief. And not a screen the size of the state of Montana. In the kitchen, we blended and stirred by hand. Because we didn’t have electric machines to do everything for us.

When we packaged a fragile item to send in the mail, we used wadded-up old newspapers to cushion it. And not styrofoam or plastic bubble wrap.

Back then, we didn’t fire up an engine and burn gasoline just to cut the lawn. We used a push mower that ran on human power. And we exercised by working. So, we didn’t need to go to a health club to run on treadmills that operate on electricity.

We drank from a fountain when we were thirsty instead of using a cup or a plastic bottle every time we had a drink of water. And we refilled writing pens with ink instead of buying a new pen. We also replaced the razor blades with a razor instead of throwing away the whole razor just because the blade got dull.

Back then, people took a bus.And kids rode their bikes instead of turning their moms into a 24-hour taxi service. Usually, we had one electrical outlet in a room. Not an entire bank of sockets to power a dozen appliances. And we didn’t need a computerized gadget to receive a signal beamed from satellites 23,000 miles in space to find the nearest burger joint.

But the current generation laments how wasteful we old folks were just because we didn’t have “the green thing.”

The cashier stood there still and quiet as the old lady found her wallet to pay. Then lady turned to leave but stepped back and turned toward the cashier. She said “You have a world of knowledge in that little device in your hand. Pity you just use it to gossip, take pictures, and waste time. It would do you good to search a bit of history before you embarrass yourself like this again.

I think that’s a slam-dunk. How about you? Did your family recycle away. Or were you part of the use-it-up-and-get-a-new-one group? In my parents’ and grandparents’ house, it was pretty much as the older woman described.

By the way, I’m gonna recycle away my recommendation that you head to this link to Jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon. Make me send you some complimentary (and downright hospitable) stuff.

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I watched Brian Regan, one of the truly best comedians ever, do a bit about comparing anything you do to one of the astronauts who walked on the moon. It’s hilarious. When you get a chance, just do a search for Brian Regan man on the moon on YouTube.

Yeah. How does your best accomplishment compare to being a man on the moon?Funny stuff. And I love how Brian doesn’t resort to profanity. Plus, his facial expressions are top-notch. And that reminds me of the first time I ever heard of him.

Elgielene and I went to a movie, back in the late 90’s, and they showed comedy clips before the main show. One of those clips was of Brian talking about how he says “you too” at the wrong times. Look that bit up, too.

Anyway.

Let’s get back to the man on the moon.

But let’s don’t talk about some boring moon walk. That’s old hat, old news, and old school. Because of this press release:

Dateline: May 11, 2024 / 12:57 PM CDT – HARLINGEN, Texas – NASA announced it is aiming to build the first railway system on the moon. “We want to build the first lunar railway system, which will provide reliable, autonomous, and efficient payload transport on the Moon,” a post by Ethan Schaler, with the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory stated.

Whoa! People get ready! There’s a train a’comin’. That’s gonna leave The Impressions…I mean, an impression. Just imagine. A railway system on THE MOON.

OK, let’s set aside, for the time being, the fact that most cities don’t maintain potholes and bridges properly. And let’s focus on the positive side of this railway system. After all, it’s gonna be reliable, autonomous, and efficient payload transport. So, you won’t have to worry about any man on the Moon. He’ll have excellent transportation at his disposal.

And even better than that? It’s gonna have a cool acronym, aka: name. FLOAT. Ain’t that somethin’? And that stands for “Flexible Levitation on a Track.” Bam! Score! It’s a slam-dunk for the marketing department.

Sure, they’ve got some time to work on it since the “daily operations of a sustainable lunar base” will be in the 2030’s. Plus, they’ll use so-called “artificial intelligence,” which, in this case, will be “unpowered magnetic robots that levitate over a film track.” Hmm, I’m not sure how “unpowered” robots can do that.

But maybe that’s just me.Now, lest you think your tax dollars will be wasted on such looney, er, lunar activity, here’s something you should know. According to the press release: “The system will transport payloads around the base to and from landing zones and other outposts. The aim is to also transport lunar soil from mining locations to be used for extraction or construction.”

So, rest easy. They’re gonna move moon dirt around and maybe use it to build stuff. So, cool. Right? And obviously, the need is great for reliable “unpowered magnetic robots.” Because “FLOAT will operate autonomously in the dusty, inhospitable lunar environment with minimal site preparation.”

Well, I don’t know about you, but I hope I can hang in there long enough for a trip to that “dusty, inhospitable lunar environment.” If I don’t, there’s always Death Valley National Park. But that’s so twentieth century.

So be it. I’m connected to the twentieth century enough to have enough sense to know Earth is a good place to live and the moon isn’t even a good place to work. And that’s why any man on the moon references I’ll make will be confined to the world of the imagination.

Feel the cool night air
Dancing through your hair.
Laugh right out loud and then watch
Stars light up everywhere.
Look up with your arms open wide,
And you will Catch The Moon.

Hop in your rocket and head to this link to Jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon. Make me send you some complimentary (and downright hospitable) stuff.

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The post Man on the moon and that rhymes with loon appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I can predict people will still be living on Earth a thousand years from now. And that prediction includes their ability to drink water, eat real food, and breathe fresh air. Yep, that’s right. I can predict the future.

But, just because I can predict the future like that doesn’t mean much.No, I’m not a prediction savant. And I don’t play one on YouTube. So, just because I can predict the future with confidence still doesn’t mean I think I know it all (and I knew that’s what you were thinking about me just now).

Yeah, I’m what you might call a prognosticating magician. Oh yeah, you know it’s true. Given enough time that’s what you’d call me. At least once you discover some of my secrets of diversion.

Anyway…

Someone, long before me, shared some predictions about how long this planet could last. And, when you consider how accurate that source has been time after time after time, there’s no point in doubting the accuracy of any “future talk.”

So, I’ve shared what I’ve shared, up to this point, to point out how outrageous the end-of-civilization claims are. And in recent years, as they’ve attempted to predict a dystopian future, those claims have gotten increasingly stupid. And they reveal who the control freaks are. Good news is, they’re just clanging brass clowns and provisional, passing puppets. And, in the long run (eternity), their message will vaporize.

But they DO get to have their 15 minutes of fame right now. So, as they slither through their slogan-filled sleepwalk, we can focus on things that are pure and praiseworthy. Because…

We KnowChicken little, chicken little,
That old, darn sky just won’t fall.
But I guess that doesn’t matter
Long as they can fool us all
Into thinking that the climate
Is an enemy we’ve made
Just by breathing and by living.
It’s a heat wave masquerade.
But discerners don’t believe it.
Yes, we know where Truth is found.
And we know the sky will not fall
And the Earth will spin around
For as long as God determines.
He has made that point quite clear.
So, go spout your hoaxes elsewhere.
Earth will still be fine next year!

© 2023

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The post Predict the future but don’t be too sure appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

The idea of this post popped into my head during and after a three-mile walk through our neighborhood this morning. Because the many shades of green, the multitude of flowers, and all the birds, bunnies, and squirrels flitting and scattering around under a bright, blue sky stirred up the word, splendor, in my brain.

It’s a word that means “magnificent and splendid appearance; grandeur.” And, also according to the dictionary, it originated in “late Middle English: from Anglo-Norman French splendur or Latin splendor, from splendere ‘shine, be bright’.” OK, consider that. And then consider the splendor of the King. Not just any ol’ king. I mean THE King.

So, I’m talkin’ about the splendor of the King who shines brighter than the sun.King David wrote a mighty complimentary song about this. He said, “One generation shall praise Your works to another, And shall declare Your mighty acts. I will meditate on the glorious splendor of Your majesty, And on Your wondrous works.”

So, you could say that was a king who recognized and acknowledged the true King. But you don’t have to. Because I just did. Yeah, David wrote a lot of songs about his Creator. Because David realized, there is only ONE who can speak things that never were into existence.

And I’m confident, as I look at and remember scenes like the ones I saw on our morning walk, that I feel the same awe David felt as he looked closely at this world. Or at least a similar awe.

Anyway…

Once the word popped into my brain, I remembered a sonnet I wrote a couple of years ago as I enjoyed an example of the splendor of the King. Yes, real men write sonnets. And only a light-in-his-loafers luddite would say otherwise. If you’re not included in that group, enjoy this…

Sunset SonnetMy liberated heart can spread its wings
And consume these smoky sunrays today.
My thirsty eyes soak in all the splendor,
Before this mountain moment fades away,
My mind enters this twilight lucid dream
And pauses to create a déjà vu.
A thousand thankful thoughts rise up to God,
Who helps me write this short story to you.
The words become a precipice to me,
A rocky peak of pictures in my brain.
Reality or not? Now, I wonder
How long I’ll wander through this vast terrain.
Long enough for me to write this sonnet,
While the setting sun’s light is upon it. © 2022

Enjoy the exhilarating feeling of splendor, when you jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon. Don’t put it off another second. Get some complimentary goodies now: https://www.TonyFunderburk,com

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The post The splendor of the King is in everything appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

He’s talked with dead people, personally. He’s talked about dead people as though they were still alive. And he consistently serves up word hash like it’s going out of style or something. You know him. You loathe him. Of course I’m talking about little Joey Biden. Mrs. Biden’s pride and joy.

Mm, mm. Nothin’ like a bowl of homemade word hash.You no doubt have seen commentaries, of one sort or another, about Joe Biden’s brain fog. His brain fog reminds me of the Peanuts comic strip character, Pig-pen. Because wherever Pig-pen went, his little dirt cloud went with him. Just like JB’s brain fog.

Someone shared, yet again, a “greatest hits” compilation of Joe’s “gaffes” on social media. And as I laughed (even though on a certain level it’s NOT funny), I remembered a word hash I created a couple of years ago. Except my hash only sounds like hash. The words are actually real. Not that blurred, slurred slop that slips out from behind the executive teleprompter.

If you know a kid who enjoys looking up words for their definitions, they should get a real kick out of this remix of words. Every other line ends with a word that rhymes with…

OoshThe light revealed the interstice,
Through which he would debouch.
This slender, blue homunculus,
Who wore a red tarboosh,
Was undeniably annoyed
As he tied his babouche
And straightened up his sweater
Made of ibex shahtoosh.
He blinked three times and ran to catch
A burgundy barouche.
And once inside he opened up
His journal and cartouche
To write a sonnet of his love
For Rosalinda Ruesch
And her delectable dessert
Of citrus croquembouche.
And now you have enjoyed one tale
Of Lazlo Link Latouche.

© 2022

There’s a lot more fun, goofy stuff kids seem to get a big kick out of in the Kiddin’ Around coloring and drawing songbook. From a green monkey to purple poodles to who knows where, it’s kid friendly through and through. Here’s the link to get a copy for your favorite kid today. And, the big PLUS is that there’s a secret link in the book where all the songs can be downloaded for free.

https://www.amazon.com/Kiddin-Around-Tony-Funderburk/dp/B08BV18T5J

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The post Word hash for Joe and those in the know appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Kiddin' Around

There’s always tomorrow. Which is weird. Because tomorrow never comes. In the big picture, those two sentences aren’t mutually exclusive. So, “ride the wind” when it’s windy. Drink up when it rains. Sunbathe when others complain of the heat. Your days here on earth are very, very short. Don’t take yourself so seriously that you can’t sieze the moment with the enthusiasm of kids.

Kids don’t know that tomorrow never comes.So, kids know how to laugh at things no one else can even see. They know how to be goofy and not care that mud got on the knees of their pants. And kids know how to love uncontrollably, hug unabashedly, and give undeniably.

If you’re not a kid, you were once one. So, if you concentrate and think back, you might remember what it was like to anticipate the newness of the next day. And the next. And the days after that. Especially when you knew your imagination could turn you into anything and take you anywhere.

THAT…is freedom.Yesterday, in large sections of the middle of America, there were warnings of severe weather. And the messages included tornado warnings and watches. We saw messages on the electronic highway signs. And on the TV news. And in the weather apps on our phones.

As you might have seen, this past week, the town of Sulphur, Oklahoma was demolished by a tornado. And that’s a town I have a lot connection with. Because my Dad used to take us to that area to visit grandparents. We used to camp out nearby. And a couple of times we stopped by there, either on our way to have a blast at Turner Falls or on our way back home.

Anyway…

I only brought this up because of how out-of-control winds can sometimes make sure tomorrow never comes for some people. Tornadoes are kind of like rattlesnakes. Both can strike fast and be deadly. But neither one can erase the future. Nothing can.

So, while you prepare your food and water and supplies for natural disasters, be sure you’re also prepared for the supernatural. If not, a tornado could spin you down to a mighty awful place. A place even kids’ imaginations don’t want to conjure up.

Avoid that at all cost. Fortunately the total cost, to avoid it, has already been paid. So, you can put your trust in Jesus. And when you do, a tornado would just be a whirling vehicle. And you could…

Ride The WindMonday morning put your wings on tight.
Wouldn’t wanna lose ’em in the middle of a flight.
Don’t forget wings for your one best friend…
Need a navigator, when you’re gonna ride the wind.

Check the weather. Is the blue sky blue?
Just a little lightning is enough to throttle you.
Wear your goggles, and I recommend
You take along some gloves when you’re gonna ride the wind.

Nothing better than to fly up high
Soaring with the eagles is like dancing in the sky.
Don’t you worry when it has to end.
There’s always tomorrow when you’re gonna ride the wind.

© 2013

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The post Tomorrow never comes. Sound this message on the drums. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I saw a silly question this morning. And I’m sure you’ve seen one like it at least once or twice. It said, “‘Mass Extinction: What Happened 65 Million Years Ago?” Of course, the correct answer is “Nothing.”

Well, another correct answer would be, “Ask God. He was the only one around.”But nothing on Earth happened 65 million years ago. Because Earth didn’t exist then. And the evidence is overwhelming to anyone who is willing to look at it with humility.

Take, for example, the Ford Galaxy. I still remember my mom and step-dad buying a brand new ’64 Ford Galaxy station wagon. Bright red. And a real nice ride for a family.

Wait! I meant to talk about actual galaxies. Not a car. Yeesh. So weird how the fingers start typing out a story when the brain is thinking of another one.

Anyway…

Ain’t it cool how “galaxies frequently appear connected or aligned with other galaxies or quasars that have vastly different redshifts?” Yeah, many is the time my friends and I have sat around the campfire and sung songs about that. I mean, it’s just so cool. And according to Dr. Walt Brown, a PhD from M.I.T. those kinds of connections happen “too often for all examples to be coincidences.”

Dr. Brown also added that, “If redshifts imply velocities (which is most likely), these galaxies and quasars have not been moving apart for very long. If redshifts do not always imply velocities, many astronomical conclusions are in error.”

That sounds like a guy who knows the correct answer.And I mean the correct answer for the age of the universe and our beautiful, blue planet. Yeah, Dr. Brown has shared tons of evidence for a young Earth and universe. But…

What does this all mean?
And why should we care?
That we didn’t come from slime!
And there’s a God out there!

(from my song, “Fast Forward”)

The age of the Earth matters. Because the whole millions or billions of years ideology is responsible for hopelessness and horror. It’s a worldview whose believers want you to believe you’re a result of random mutations. And that you’ll eventually expire and crash into eternal nothingness.

But a young Earth worldview gives you the correct answer. That a loving Creator who made you in His image and likeness. And that’s an ideology based on the actual evidence. Plus, it’s filled with hope of eternal life in paradise. Give me what’s behind that door any day of the week.

And you should Jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon and get what’s behind my email door.
(Hint: it’s good stuff for Fa-Ree)

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The post Correct answer eludes so many scientist dudes appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

He built a small log cabin on the bank of a small creek, in Kansas, in the early 1830s. Then, the U.S. government built some other lodges in the area. And one of those lodges was for Tonganoxie.

But who in the world was Tonganoxie? And why does it matter?Well, I’ll answer both those questions. But you should know ahead of time that you might not be satisfied with my answers. If you’re OK with that, read on.

Tonganoxie was an Indian (not the kind from India) from the Delaware tribe. His real name was more like Tonqua-Oxie. But you know how white folks are. They just can’t leave out their privilege and supremacy. So, Tonqua-Oxie transformed into Tonganoxie. And I gotta say, that rolls off the tongue much more easily.

Anyway…

Tonga man was a member of the Turkey Clan. And from what I’ve learned about him, he seemed to be a pretty good guy. He lived at that lodge the U.S. government built. And he operated it as a stage stop and inn. Evidently U.S. Mail arrived and passed through the lodge. And apparently he was given the title of first Postmaster.

Mr. Noxie was also married. And he and his wife had his sister and his sister’s children live with them.

I read a short account of how Tonganoxie was known as a peaceful and kind man. The story goes that he “sheltered JWH Golden, who with two friends was chased from Leavenworth by Border Ruffians. All three were shot less than a half-mile north of Tonganoxie’s lodge. One died and two played dead long enough for the Ruffians to leave. Mr. Golden lived for several years and told how he was aided by Tonganoxie.

And Tonganoxie left that area in 1863.According to the short article I read, he went to live with a nephew (on allotted land) in the Bonner Springs area. And the area Tonganoxie left was named after him. And, later, Tonganoxie died in southern Kansas while traveling to Oklahoma.

OK, there’s the answer to who in the world he was. Now, as to why it matters.

Well, you might’ve heard that Kansas is one of those states with more than its fair share of tornadoes. But you might not have heard of the “Tonganoxie Split.” It’s supposedly “a phenomenon where storms and tornadoes coming across Kansas split north and south or dissipate as they reach Tonganoxie.” And that tends to ensure that the Kansas City area is saved from the worst effects of that extreme weather.

Now, would you believe that National Weather Service meteorologists don’t believe the Tonganoxie Split is a real thing? I know. It’s crazy to think. But at least a couple of them don’t. In fact, one of them was quoted as saying, “It’s not been seen scientifically to have any real impact, and there are storms that go over there all the time.”

And the other one explained that people believe cities are less likely to be hit by tornadoes. But he said this is “because cities just take up less land than rural areas.” Yeah, again, more crazy talk. So, I guess when it comes down to it, you just have to pick what you’re gonna believe. So-called “urban legends and myths?” Or so-called “science?”

And sometimes towns and people just get caught in the middle.

A Lot In StoreWhen you’re really in the middle
And you’re feeling like a riddle,
And you start to get a little bit down…
Take your eyes off all your troubles.
Let ’em float away like bubbles.
When they pop, then I bet you can’t frown.
When you think your life is rotten…
All the good things have been gotten,
And the world’s takin’ more than it gives…
Start to laugh and start to winkin’.
You can stop that stinkin’ thinkin’.
That’s the way that a happy kid lives.
Yeah, your face might get all flappy
When you walk around so happy,
But your life is gonna mean much more.
Now go be a sparkling fountain
Or a bright light on a mountain
‘Cause your Maker’s got a lot in store.

© 2013

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When I was a kid, I’d almost always be the first one to get up. And I’d sneak into the kitchen and pour myself a bowl of cereal. Not every day was a cereal day. Because moms knew growing kids need a variety of nutrients. But a bowl (or two) of that tasty goodness could take you all the way to lunch. Of course, that was back before cereal (and just about all other food) was so manipulated with additives and preservatives. But that’s a whole ‘nother rabbit hole.

Anyway…

Even as a kid I’d savor my cereal day alone time.And there only the sound of my own crunching on Cheerios, or corn flakes, or whatever was available. And I’d stare out the window. Because I loved to watch the birds and squirrels as they gathered up and ate their food. There was so much hustle and bustle right out in the front yard. But it was also so peaceful and quiet.

Back then, kids weren’t allowed to have coffee. At least not in our household. But I didn’t mind. Because that “grownup” beverage tasted awful to me. And I never needed that caffeine boost to wake up.

These days the first thing I do, in the morning, is get a drink of water from my ProPur (now Pro One) gravity filter. Then, I pour some more of that wonderful water (with fluoride filtered out and minerals left in) for my coffee. And I enjoy the aroma as the brewing begins. That first cup, with a bit of honey and cream or butter, wakes up the first layer of brain cells where my imagination lives. And as those cells roam around freely inside my head, groups of words start to form.

And on a Saturday morning, 11 years ago, this group of words formed.

Saturday Morning Breakfast CerealSaturday morning breakfast cereal
Floating in a big, blue bowl…
Oaty oat circles spinning in spoonfuls
Milk dripping out of control.

Saturday morning sunshine prisms
Sparkle on a glass of juice,
Bouncing like BB’s clicking on concrete
Luminous lights let loose.

Saturday morning cartoon silliness
Playing on the TV screen…
Bozos and birdbrains, rockets and robots
Every week the same routine.

Saturday morning breakfast cereal
Wakin’ up a sleepyhead…
Saturday morning breakfast cereal
The reason to get out of bed.
© 2013

And that’s just one of about 110 pages of rhymes and drawings you’ll find in my book: “Ginormous Humongous Tremendous Book of Poems and Short Bedtime Stories For Kids“

But I have to warn you, it might be the most expensive coloring and drawing book of poems and short stories you’ve ever seen. Because there’s more delight packed into this one book than you’re likely to see in another book anywhere. Well, at least until my next one comes out. Anyway…here’s your link, if you dare…

(https://www.amazon.com/Ginormous-Humongous-Tremendous-Bedtime-Stories/dp/1661314422)

Stay tuned,

The post Cereal day so far, far away appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

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Most of us humans go on our merry way, every day. And most of us never give a second thought to what happens next. But I don’t mean in the next minute or hour. And not even the next day, week, or month.

Nope. Think much further ahead.

We’re on our merry way to somewhere else after this life.So, get out the roadmap, plot out a destination, and work out how you’ll get there. Thankfully you have access to incredible devices and apps to almost hold your hand and get you there safely. Except for that small three-word phrase at the end of the previous subhead. “After this life.”

No paper or digital roadmap or device or app can help you reach that destination. Well, I guess, in a way, your devices and other distractions can be part of the reason you don’t enjoy the stop at the end of your journey. But where you end up, after your body expires, is based on a couple of questions you could ask yourself.

Is everything there is, in this universe, everything there is?

And…

Do I know all there is to know about everything there is?

Those are important questions because they can help you take the focus off you and put it on origin options. And those are crucial to consider because, according to a lot of documented, reliable data, Heaven and hell appear to be real.

Now, I know, with all the so-called “AI-assisted graphics” and so-called “deep fake” media, it might be tempting to believe you can never truly know what’s real anymore. But I urge you not to give in to that temptation. Because the aforementioned documented, reliable data has been tested for thousands of years. And it holds up under strict scrutiny.

So, I’ll just leave you with those couple of questions to ponder. And you can decide whether or not to ask and answer them. Because, after all, you ARE a person with your own will. Every one of us is as we go on…

Our Merry WayI want you to come with me
Down in the deep, blue sea
Where a sea horse grins and spins its fins
And says we can swim for free.

We won’t have to stop for air
The whole time we’re under there.
We can breathe like fish if we make a wish.
It’s a make-believe we’ll share.

So tell me, what do you say?
Would you like to go today?
We can tell our tales, how we swam with whales
And then we went our merry way.
© 2017

For some goodies that aren’t a figment of your imagination, Jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today.

Stay tuned,

The post On our merry way to somewhere else some day appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Hey, hey, it’s May and May Day. So, what do you say? I say hey! Let’s talk about the May birthstone. And in case you didn’t already know, it’s the beautiful emerald.

Emerald for a May birthstone makes sense when you learn more about it.Because the emerald is considered a symbol of rebirth. And superstitious people believe it has the power to grant the owner foresight, good fortune, and youth. Side note: Elizabeth Taylor owned an emerald pendant that sold for $6.5 million in 2011. So, it apparently was quite the specimen. But Liz still got old and died. Weird, right?

Anyway…

Let’s get back to more practical reasons why an emerald makes a great May birthstone. First, I read how the word emerald comes from the Greek word “smaragdus.” And that translates into green. So, it makes sense that a green gem would be appropriate for the time of year when everything blooms and leaves turn to green.

And second, a polished emerald sparkles like dew on a verdant grass lawn. And while I’m waxing poetic, a couple of years ago I wrote this rhyme that fits nicely into this time of year:

Emerald EmbraceI sat upon an emerald.
The green glow glazed my eyes.
And I beheld the art of God,
His brushstrokes in the skies.
The neon shone through bright chartreuse,
And pine and malachite,
And all the way into my heart
That still and liquid night.
I know, for God, the painting was
A glimpse of what will be,
In Heaven’s emerald embrace,
With Him eternally. © 2022

So, Happy May to you. And Happy May birthday. Oh, and if your kid’s birthday is this month, you should get them the Kiddin’ Around collection of songs. I don’t recall any references to emeralds. But one of the songs is called “Green Monkey.” The color green comes up quite a bit in the lyrics, and it’s a fun, springy tune.

See and listen to a video demo of the songs in the collection here: (https://youtu.be/dTZTtsyZQdk)

And download all 10 songs for $10 at this link: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=L6MAH2QKHU5J8

Stay tuned,

The post May birthstone in the poetic zone appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Being a parent, especially one with a baby or young child, can be isolating.

That was a headline that caught my eye this morning. And maybe it’s just me (I doubt it), but that kind of parent seems like the selfish type.

But the article included some reasons why being a parent can be isolating.Now, hold on to your hat. Because there are some terrifying things parents do that bring on this problem:

be sure bills are paid
feed the kids
navigate nap times and illnesses
jam-packed extracurricular schedules and homework
clean the house

And the article said a survey showed how, due to the demands of parenthood, 66% of the respondents feel isolated, lonely, and “burned out by their responsibilities as a parent.” And “38% of respondents said they don’t have anyone to support them in their parenting role.”

The survey reveals a lot of wimpy parents.Now, my wife and I didn’t experience the blessing of kids. So, on one level, I’m disqualified to pass judgment on parents who DID have kids. But here’s the thing. Stats, from all kinds of sources, say the average American household, in recent years, has about three people. So, for households with kids that means either 2 parents and a kid or 2 kids and a parent.

Any way you look at it, that’s not a lot. So, why all the “overwhelming feeling of exhaustion,” as described by an associate clinical professor at The Ohio State University College of Nursing. She said it like this:

“In this specific role of being a parent, it’s that ability to never really feel like you’re above water. And then that causes other things to start happening. Like feeling more detached from your children and less like you’re a good parent. Loneliness can really exacerbate a lot of those feelings.”

When I was a kid, WAY back in the 20th century, lots of households included more than one kid. In fact, many kids I grew up with came from families with 4 or 5 kids. And that was the case in both households I grew up in.

And even after I flew the coop I never heard my parents mention how burned out and isolated they felt during their full-time parenting years. It wasn’t because they never dealt with any serious issues. Every family has those. No, I believe selfishness has increased exponentially in recent years. Especially since “things” are easy and relationships aren’t.

I hope you’re not a parent who’s feeling detached from your kids.Because kids need parents (and grandparents, aunts, and uncles) who will help them transition into confident, responsible adults. So, my recommendation is to take the focus off self and put it on serving others. Just as the Navy commercials used to say, “It’s not just a job. It’s an adventure.”

And the best gift you give kids is the knowledge of what it takes to live forever. That’s when you store up your treasures in Heaven where no bank, no foreign power, and no tyrannical government can ever take the away from you.

One of the next best gifts you can give kids is a world of imagination they can find in words and music. And it just so happens I know where you can get some mighty fun words and music. In my “Kiddin’ Around” Collection. See and listen to a video demo of the songs here: (https://youtu.be/dTZTtsyZQdk)

And download all 10 songs for $10 at this link: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=L6MAH2QKHU5J8

Stay tuned,

The post Being a parent without the inerrant appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Slim and None. Those are the probable answers to the question. But, naturally, that begs the question. And at least one version of the question would be, “What are the odds that everything happens for a reason?” And I’d say chances are also slim and none that people who believe everything happens for a reason would agree with Jesus on that.

Uh-oh. I done went and done it that time. So, before I move on, I’d like to know if you agree with this:

Chances are slim and/or none that God didn’t author the Bible.My option, on that statement, is NONE. But I’ll play the Lord’s advocate (because I prefer never to advocate for the devil) and assume not everyone agrees with me.

If that’s you, bear with me as I blast out some info that maybe you haven’t considered before. And this doesn’t come from some marketer. It’s not from a metaphysicalized so-called “pastor” or “minister.” This word, that affirms accidental circumstances, comes right out of the Bible in at least three different places. Actually four places. And maybe even five. But I don’t want you to start with the first place it’s found in case you’re the type who’s easily confused.

So. Are you ready for the affirmation word? Are you sure? Because this gets kinda complicated and it triggers people.

OK, if you’re still reading, it means your mind is fortified and you’re ready to hear some truth.

So, here’s the word. Chance.

Bam! Oh yeah, that word IS in the Bible. Four times when you do a search in the New King James version. And are you ready for the high octane Spirit chaser? One of the times the word “chance” is used, it’s in RED. Bam again! (for the initiated, red letters mean those words were spoken by Jesus)

Anyway…

The reason I brought it up is because I see, literally every day, Christians debating whether or not everything happens because God ordained everything. And anyone who says He does has NOT yet comprehended the book He wrote. Because He’s infinitely creative (meaning His creative abilities have no end). And He’s infinitely brilliant (meaning He knows how to create worlds and beings that don’t require Him for day-to-day operations.

So, that means God designed you to be able to think for yourself. And decide for yourself.

But THAT is why there is so much evil and horror in the world.Because there seems to be no depth of depravity that human beings aren’t willing to go. People have done things to each other so horribly wicked that it never entered God’s mind they would do them.

Sure, God knows everything knowable. And everything He wants to know. But do you think for a moment, that God, for eternity past, had any thoughts of burning children on altars to sacrifice them to Baal? No, that’s not His nature. It’s ours.

OK, I just had to get that out there for your consideration. And I know chances are slim that everyone will agree with me. But I also know there’s a chance somebody’s mind could be changed. And that notion motivates me to share the info. Here’s a little outro rhyme of chance…

Maybe. Maybe not.Will the sun rise in the morning?
Will the temperature be hot?
And will skies be blue and sunny?
Well, maybe…maybe not.

Will the songbirds all be singing?
Will the breezes blow a lot?
And will leaves lift up their laughter?
Well, maybe…maybe not.

Will some words of wisdom visit?
Will the books all have a plot?
And will we read some happy stories?
Well, maybe…maybe not.

Will the world go on forever?
Will the getting all be got?
And will we all be nice to others?
Well, maybe…maybe not.

© 2022

The post Chances are slim that you agree with him appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I saw a headline that I had to check out. It said: A prominent doctor asks Democrats: “If abortion is healthcare, my question is: what disease are you treating?”

And I say Kudos to the good doctor for the “what disease” question.So, the doctor’s name is Monique Wubbenhorst. And, according to an article clip I ready, she’s “a renowned medical professor and researcher.”

Dr. Wubbenhorst understands what’s going on when an abortion is performed. She knows it has nothing to do with healthcare. So, she boldly asked a group of pro-abortion lawmakers to explain how killing unborn babies is part of good medicine. Here’s her question again:

“If abortion is health care, my question is: what disease are you treating?”

Here’s a little more info I found, about her, in that short article.

She’s a “senior research associate at the de Nicola Center for Ethics and Culture at the University of Notre Dame and a former professor at Duke University School of Medicine.” And the good doctor Wubbenhorst “frequently testifies to lawmakers about the humanity of unborn babies.”

Plus, she “debunks false claims about abortion.”

And I’m impressed with her follow up to that revealing “what disease” question.

She said:“The Dobbs decision presents an opportunity to mitigate abortion’s many harms to women, unborn children, families and community. Abortion not only poses risks to the mother, it is also by definition always lethal to an embryo or fetus, an unborn child who is a human being, a member of the human family, not a clump of cells or a potential child.”

You caught that. Right? Abortion, by definition, is “always lethal to and embryo or fetus.” And I love how she triple emphasized that an embryo or fetus is 1) an unborn child, 2) a human being, and 3) a member of the human family. There’s just NO wiggle room.

Yeah, and when you and I were still wiggling around in the womb, we were members of the human family. The proof is in the pudding. Because look at us now. All we needed was food and water and a helping hand.

Sad to say, but far too many people still believe that it’s fine to kill tiny unborn human beings just because their parents don’t want them. Or just because their father was a criminal.

Thankfully, those tiny souls shoot straight back to Heaven. I’m confident that our living, loving Creator, who made humans in His image and likeness, welcomes them with all the love they need to recover. But that doesn’t make up for how they got there.

Please have another serious talk with anyone you know who might be considering abortion as some sort of “healthcare option.” Ask them the “what disease” question. And explain how that so-called “choice” comes with eternal consequences.

I am not a spark of light
That evolved from darkest night.
If you say I did, I might
Have to make a funny face… ‘cause…

I am a child of God…child of the Living God…
The One who spoke and made the universe.

(from my song “Child of God”)

You won’t find that song on any of my collections. So you should probably jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon to get stuff like that. https://www.TonyFunderburk.com

Stay tuned,

The post What disease were you before the world saw you? appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Information inside your cells determined whether you’d have brown or blue or green eyes. And it determined whether you’d have black or brown or blonde hair. AND whether you’d be a boy or a girl (Those are the only choices, by the way). Take a trillion trails of that information, see where it goes, and I believe you’ll come to the same conclusion I did: “Whoa, dude. That sounds complex. My head just exploded.”

And that’s just ONE trillion trails.You could take a lot more than that and still remain in the cells of one, single person. Yeah, you’re gonna need to stock up. Because that’s gonna be a long journey.

Think about the thoughts and memories you have floating around in your mind right now. Those thoughts and memories have no physical parts. In fact, you can’t feel, smell, taste, hear, or see them. And here’s the thing. They didn’t create themselves. Information can’t do that. It’s too complex.

I know I keep saying that, but I just can’t help myself. It’s tru. The information in the DNA of each of your cells is basically equal to a library with 4000 books. It’s like your body isn’t a single star. It’s a whole constellation.

So, to say that much data stored in the 37 trillion cells in your body happened by chance mutations is ludicrous (Not to be confused with “Ludacris” although he IS ludicrous).

Anyway…

Why would you (or anybody) prefer to believe in chance, circumstance, and some sort of mutations dance? And why wouldn’t you (or anybody) prefer to believe in the living, loving God who wants us to live forever? Chance, circumstance, and mutations don’t care whether you live or die. So they certainly don’t care if you live forever. In fact, they only contribute to your hopelessness. Until they eventually erase it altogether.

So. Whatcha gonna do with this information?Toss it aside? Make fun of it? Sure, those options are at your disposal. But you could also check out scientific links I’ve shared. Don’t take my word for it. And see if your belief system is challenged. Who knows? Maybe your belief system will change. That happens a lot when people open their eyes to the truth.

If it hasn’t already happened for you, I hope it does REAL SOON.

Through the trillion trails of starlight
Caught up in the constellations
Grows a great, galactic garden,
Fiery flowers in formations.
Watered with the words of wisdom,
The Designer deemed to say,
With love we can look and listen
To the Milky Way Bouquet.

© 2017

Milky Way Bouquet is an instrumental included on the popular collection of lullabies called “Lullabye Bye.” Get all the songs, in the unique songbook and coloring and drawing book for kids by the same title, from this link:

(https://www.amazon.com/Lullabye-Bye-Tony-Funderburk/dp/B08BWFWSLN)

Stay tuned,

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The end of April is fast approaching. So, get read for all those May flowers. Of course, that leads to Mother’s Day and then Memorial Day and backyard barbecues. All that wonderful evidence of Spring can help you forget that God hates you.

Anyway…

So, last week I had a nice conversation with some people who walked their Yorkie by the bungalow. We got to talkin’ about how they don’t make houses like the ones in our neighborhood anymore. And…pardon me?

What do you mean I left you hanging with the God hates you comment?Oh, OK. I just read what I’ve written so far. And you’re right. I did write that “God hates you.” Yeah, I suppose that’s a bit harsh. And maybe I should clear that up a little. I didn’t actually mean He hates YOU. I meant He hates YOU, if and when you hate Him and when you prefer to riff on your own merry way.

But hat’s not YOU. Right?

OK. We’re clear now. So, let’s move on.

Yeah, these bungalows, from over 100 years ago, are certainly a lot more solid than modern houses. Oak flooring. Local stone foundations that surround the basement. It’s cool to see the workmanship and hand-nailed cabinetry, rafters, and trim. And you can tell they cared more because…huh? What’s that?

You don’t want me to talk about this old bungalow? You’d rather I explain what I mean about God’s hate?

OK, I will. But I sure didn’t think you’d be so curious about it. After all, it’s not like it’s a secret. He came right out and said it in His best-selling book of all time. And He made it clear who and what He hates.

So, if you don’t fit into the categories, don’t worry.God says He hates the wicked. And I believe Him. Because He’s not a man. And He doesn’t lie.

But I also know He’d rather not hate anyone. It’s not His first choice to serve up a cup of fire. Or brimstone. Or burning wind. And that’s why He holds all those things in reserve for only those who hate Him or His children.

I don’t know about you. But I enjoy a good steaming cup of coffee on a brisk, quiet morning. And I’ve been known to partake of some spicy, hot barbecue sauce on my brisket. But I’d rather not even sample any of that hot stuff God will serve up for the wicked. No sir. I’m saving room for dessert (aka: Heaven).

I’d rather have an ice cream cone
Than a cup of fire and brimstone.
And I’d rather enjoy God’s love
Than burning winds from up above.
So, I say “yes” to all His word,
The parts I’ve read, the parts I’ve heard.
I know someday I’ll leave this place
And live forever in His grace.

© 2020

It certainly will be much better than fire and brimstone when you jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon. So, don’t put it off another second. Get some complimentary goodies now: https://www.TonyFunderburk,com

Stay tuned,

The post God hates you if you prefer your own riff appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

If it’s Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, just ignore this message. Because this is specially designed to help you focus on your Wednesday blessings. I won’t be responsible for results you get by attempting to use it on those other days.

“Why Wednesday blessings, Tony?” you ask.Well, I’m glad you asked because I’d like to expound with great profundity on that topic. And I’d love to illuminate the catacombs of your weary understanding and reasoning with wit, wisdom, and whimsy.

Either that, or I’d like to help take your mind off the vicious news in the world. Like these headlines:

“Biden Is Trying To Twist The Law To Advance Abortion”
“Man Charged With Felony Murder For Death Of Mother Of Five”
“Ex-Cop Kills Himself After Murdering Ex-Wife, Teen Girlfriend, and Kidnapping Baby”

So, how’s that for a reason to count your Wednesday blessings?

Here’s the thing.

No matter how bad the news is, or how bad it gets, your blessings outnumber those headlines. You can focus on them and be afraid. But that’s a loser’s game.

And winners focus on blessings.(Oh wait. You DO know where those blessings originate. Right? Good. Then, I’ll continue.)

You and I can use our time to build up business. Or increase knowledge. And even sharpen abilities to serve others. Because that’s the only way you ever truly win in life.

Yeah, there’s never a shortage of fear talk out there. And there’s never a shortage of unsubstantiated and unwise speculation. But truth and right and wrong don’t change. Despite what the blurry-brained blabbermouths, who stick metal through their noses, might yell at you in a childish profanity-filled tantrum.

Here’s how I see it…I hope you don’t mind if I don’t join in
With the people who just naysay.
I think you might find, if you just begin,
You might feel the very same way.
Life can get real dark like a starless night.
So, be glad when the Lord sends day.
Go and make your mark without fear or fright.
And you might as well start Wednesday.

© 2020

Just in case you’re one of the billions of people on the planet who haven’t jumped on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon yet, don’t wait another second. Get some complimentary goodies now: https://www.TonyFunderburk,com

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The post Wednesday blessings or bad news? Luckily you can choose. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I get it. You’ve heard it all before. Right? And if you have to listen to one more person spout off about how “God so loved the world blah, blah, blah, you’ll scream. But here’s the thing.

Truth is always truth. Even when you’ve heard it all before.It’s testable. And it comes through with flying colors every time it’s tested. But that makes it detestable to all those who love to fly their colors on rebellious, satin flags. Yeah, in case you haven’t heard me or someone else say this before, Truth Is Hate To Those Who Hate The Truth.

A guy, named Solomon, wrote “there is nothing new under the sun.”

In a way, that’s true. But it’s important to note how Solomon was a miserable shadow of his former self when he wrote that. And it’s also important to note that, sure, we have the same ingredients to work with as all the generations before us. But that doesn’t mean we can’t make a “new” loaf of bread. Or a “new song.”

That’s why I’m always looking for a “new” way to manipulate the 26 letters of the English alphabet and the 12 notes in a chromatic music scale. Because I might manage to manipulate a message (how’s that for some authoritative alliteration?) into something that could change the course of someone’s eternity.

And nothing could be more valuable than that.

So, even though you think you’ve heard it all before, I’ll still keep plugging. Because you could be that someone.

Nothing NewThere’s nothing new to say today,
Not even this.
So, I’ll just go outside and play.
Ignorant bliss.

You’ve probably heard it all before
So many times.
And nothing gives you cause to snore
Like simple rhymes.

But maybe this will flash a light
Inside your brain,
A spark of hope so you just might
Avoid some pain.

Now, even though there’s nothing new
To say today,
I know you’ll find some peace when you
Can see the Way

God did the deed you could not do.
And so I pray
You’ll carefully consider what
I try to say

In words and songs that I have shared
My whole life long.
To simply not say anything
Would be so wrong.

But will you pay attention to
These words I share?
Or will you say, “It’s nothing new,
And I don’t care.”

You’ll see, one day, you had a choice
Of where you’d be.
If you choose God, you will rejoice
Eternally.

© 2020

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Here in America, we still enjoy a certain amount of “free speech.” During the 20th century this country participated in two world wars. And many men and women fought and died to get rid of evil dictators and despicable governments. The ultimate sacrifice for God-given rights.

Thomas Jefferson sort of acknowledged where our rights originate when he composed the Declaration of Independence. He said “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness certainly covers it. But, unfortunately, it’s becoming less and less self-evident to so many people these days. Especially the part about rights coming from “their Creator.”

Free speech doesn’t mean truth is freely spoken.And I’m amazed, but not surprised, at how many American citizens would rather censor speech and give up rights than admit they have a Creator. Plus, so many would rather use their so-called “free speech” as a reason to burn flags, defecate in public, and stand up for murdering babies.

OK, at this point, you might be thinking, “Geez Louise, Tony. I thought you were the guy who writes poems and entertains people of all ages with your pleasant wit and wisdom.”

Yeah, I understand how you might wonder why I’d wrangle my rhymes and reasons into such serious stuff. Especially that whole murdering babies part. After all, abortion conversations are almost always so confoundedly confrontational. But here’s the thing.

Free speech and a right to life can all disappear when caring people say nothing to defend those rights. And I believe I’m compelled, by my Creator, to use my decades of writing experience to call out horrible injustice. So, if that means writing rhymes to show the reasons, then that’s what I’ll do.

And I thank you, from the top of my big ol’ black heart, for your willingness to either share my rhymes and reasons with others or share your own. Because there’s a gigantic, hurting world out there that needs to know hope is available. And they need to know it’s a limited time offer.

OK, I’ll leave you with this royal rhyme…

Talk DelightTalk is not as cheap as it used to be.
It can cost so much when the world can see.
But you still should say what is right.
It might even bring kings delight.
Think before you speak is still good advice.
Keep in mind the ultimate sacrifice
Many others made for your right.
And speak up for one King’s delight.

© 2020 Tony Funderburk

Jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon and get really refreshing rhymes and reasons delivered right to your inbox with no muss, no fuss. mhttps://www.TonyFunderburk.com

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The post Free speech, and other rights, sinking into darker nights appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

For a long time I sang for my supper. And breakfast, lunch, and snacks. And I sang for my monthly bills, my gasoline consumption, and even my cool clothes. When you can pay your way as a musician, do you know what they call you? Yeah, somebody who should get a real job. Wait a second! That’s not right. They call you a professional musician. Or professional entertainer. Or something like that.

For 25 years I played just about every kind of venue a professional musician could play. And I’d take all the paid bookings I could fit into my calendar. Sometimes the feast would include 7 nights a week and additional day gigs on the weekend. And sometimes the famine would be a weak weekender.

But I got to live the life of a professional musician.And I didn’t have to compete with free.

But once every Tammy, Jane, and Mary had a computer with the power to rip music off discs and send it all around the globe for free, the professional musician days were changed forever.

At first I despised what had become of the world of music. And, on certain levels, I still do. But then, technology began to offer ways for singer/songwriters to keep more of their intellectual property. Of course, it’s a pipe dream to think anyone can hold on to all of their intellectual property any more. But when you can at least offer it up in ways that aren’t so easy to rip and steal, you gotta try.

So, in the past few years I started offering my music collections in physical books. I haven’t been actively trying to sell downloads and certainly not discs for a while. And if you’re one of those people who’ve supported my efforts by buying my books, I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart. And I want you to know YOU are the kind of person who I want to keep on producing music for.

As my circumstances permit, I hope to have more stuff you haven’t heard before. In the meantime, you’ll find my physical music offers in links below. And here’s my ode to the…

Invisible Song MachinesThe times will come in everyone’s life
When changes have to occur.
The reasons could be obvious, or
They might even be a blur.
One of those times is happening now.
It’s somewhere behind the scenes…
Where the melodies quickly become
Invisible song machines.
Value is lost down deep in a world
Increasingly wanting “free.”
So, I’m moving my music around
To places listeners can see.
Places where I think they’ll connect
With those who connect with me.
If you believe I’ve got it all wrong
Then certainly, by all means,
Continue to get your free songs from
Invisible song machines.

© 2019

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My brother and I had a two-week booking in Erie, Pennsylvania. And we had just arrived. We unloaded our music gear and clothes and took them into the hotel. But I left a few boxes and assorted items in the back of my pickup. Because it was our first night in town. And we were tired from a long drive. Plus, the truck was parked inside the hotel’s “secure” lot for guests. So, no problem, right?

Yeah, no problem for a certain scumbag.The next morning I went down to my pickup to go somewhere for lunch. And, as I approached the pickup, I noticed the hatch lift to my topper was open. Not a good sign. When I went around to look, I found papers and all sorts of things torn and tossed all around. Some of my personal property, including a can with a substantial amount of coins, was gone. As you might guess, I was livid.

Side note: synonyms for livid (and they all apply): furious, angry, infuriated, irate, fuming, raging, seething, incensed, enraged, angered, beside oneself, wrathful, ireful, maddened, cross, annoyed, irritated, exasperated, indignant; informal mad, boiling, wild, seeing red, hot under the collar, up in arms, foaming at the mouth, on the warpath, steamed up

If you’ve never felt violated like that, consider yourself fortunate. When someone crosses the line of your property, even if it’s in the back of your car or pickup, that’s already a violation. But when they steal what you’ve worked hard for, that’s an exponential increase to the violation.

And, in my case, it was even worse than that.Because, of course, nothing was ever recovered. And my insurance wouldn’t cover it because they said I hadn’t properly protected my property. So, property lost. Lividity vented. And lesson learned.

But one of the reasons I brought this up is because of how many Americans don’t seem to even feel the slightest bit violated by criminals crossing our property lines. And so many Americans aren’t livid about how much of our money is stolen, by our own government, to give to those criminals. It’s demented, despicable, and devoid of intelligence.

Trillions of dollars in debt. And yet, somehow, politicians find a way to take YOUR money and give it to criminals. Yes, criminals. Every single person who crosses property lines (aka: the border) without going through the gate, is a criminal.

I don’t care if it’s a family of four who want “a better life.” And I don’t care if it’s a guy who “just wants to get a better job so he can take care of his family.” When you enter someone’s property without an invitation, you ARE a criminal!

But no problem. Right? Or, should I say, “no problemo?” It’s just people moving from one place to another. Hey, I’ve done that a lot of times. And each one of those times was to set up something better.

So, what makes me think I can move around to different parts of the world and others can’t? Nothing. I never said that. But the difference is, I didn’t cross somebody’s property lines illegally. And I didn’t steal money from other people in order to make my move.

Yes, I’m better off than a lot of people in the world.Because I was born into a country where I was at least free enough to pursue my dreams and goals. But even if I wanted to go live somewhere else in the world, I’d be sure to follow their rules for entry and citizenship. As long as they didn’t violate basic human rights to life and liberty, no problem.

So, there you have it. From feeling violated in Erie, Pennsylvania to an eerie violation of our national sovereignty. Do I know how to rant or what?!

Speaking of ranting. Here are the lyrics to a song I wrote after the incident in Erie.

Never NeverlandSometimes this world brings my bad side out.
I get so mad I could scream!
I wonder why can’t we all be friends.
Live and let live and share the dream.
So much depending on tomorrow.
Heaven only knows where tomorrow goes.
Why must we beg and steal and borrow?
A temporary fix; an empty bag of tricks.

And it’s just like the drifting of the sand,
Living in Never Neverland.
Where the mind is always quicker than the hand,
Living in Never Neverland.

Sometimes I need just to air things out.
Let the sun shine on my face.
Then maybe I’ll keep emotions in check.
And I’ll still trust the human race.
So much at stake; so much to lose now.
Can’t we understand and open up our hands?
There’s so much more we could be doing,
If we would only do what we’re intended to.

Repeat chorus…inst…ad lib chorus to end

© 1989 Tony Funderburk

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Your whole life here on earth is only the beginning. The fullness of eternity opens up to you, clearly, once you die. That’s the point of no return. Or, as the band, Kansas, said, the Point of Know Return.

Anyway…

If and when you choose to trust your Creator, you wouldn’t want to return anyway.

And when you see what’s in Heaven, I doubt seriously if you’ll have any longing in your heart for whatever you had here. Even if you had billions or even gazillions of pieces of moolah paper.

In your whole life, here, three things matter.Family, friends, health. Those are the important things. Because they can’t be purchased. And you’ll have them with you wherever you are. And your connection to them can last forever. “Material things” aren’t like that.

Almost 41 years ago I wrote down my thoughts and composed a song about it. I started out the song with a double negative. It’s a little bit of poetic license. But see if you can figure out why I use it.

I recorded the song on a very cheap cassette recorder. Not even a 4-track. And I never really produced it. I still think it would be a good song to record. Hopefully I can get my voice back to some sort of decent recording quality. Until then, I’ll share the words with you. And you can tell me if you think I should do an updated recording. Leave a comment, or send me an email. Now, here are the lyrics to…

There’s A TimeYou can’t hold on to nothing when you leave.
It’s only you He will receive,
And only you that means a thing.
So learn to love just who you are,
And though you may not be a star
You still can hear the angels sing.

There’s a time for rejoicing
Between the sunrise and the sunset.
There’s a time for your heart to be free from pain.
There’s a time for believing
This is only the beginning.
There’s a time when your spirit may seem so plain.
That’s when you’ll know
That you’re welcome to go.

You can’t make it to the other side
Till you’ve got nothing more to hide
‘Cause you can’t hide it from His eyes.
So try to learn from your mistakes,
And try to do just what it takes
To live your life away from lies.

(repeat chorus)

Don’t turn your head…
Don’t turn your head and walk away.
Your time just might be today.

© 1983

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To see me now, it might be difficult to even imagine I was once considered part of the cool crowd. Not the smoke-dope-drop-ludes-party-till-you-drop crowd. But because I was a full-time musician that so-called “cool crowd” those people figured it was OK to have me around. Even though they discovered it’s difficult to find someone as uncool as me.

But the truth is, it’s preferable to be as uncool as me.Not for most of the people on the planet, of course. But it IS preferable. Because my uncoolness is a sign I’ve made at least one wise choice in my life.

And that one wise choice was to believe in, trust in, and follow the One who most of the whole world chooses to ignore. The One who’s getting TONS of social media and traditional media coverage this week. Yeah, I’m talking about the ONLY One (not Neo) who can save you from, and dissolve, this matrix world.

This weekend marks the umpteenth time believers have acknowledged what Jesus did approximately 2000 years ago. And if you’re as uncool as me, it gives you chill bumps to imagine how eternity with Him will be.

I hope you’ve gotten your boarding pass to Heaven. It won’t cost you anything but humble heart. Because it’s already been paid for by the One who Resurrection Day is all about. If you don’t already have your ticket, don’t waste another minute. The train is about ready to leave the station. Don’t be left behind singin’ the song of…

The Uncool FoolEvery day seems a little bit shorter
And there never seems to be enough time.
Everyone is lookin’ for a reason,
So, I’ll tell you, it’s inside of this rhyme.

Every life plays a part in this journey,
Starting way down in a singular cell.
If you don’t have a clue what your part is,
Ask the only one who knows you so well.

Why am I here?
What should I do?
Why do I play the uncool fool, blindsided by the golden rule?
Where is my peace,
Long overdue?
These thoughts in my head are so cruel, bombarded by the uncool fool.

Every time you believe that you’re smarter
Take the mask off and then open your eyes.
You might have lots of facts in your head, but
Ask yourself these things and see if you’re wise.

Why am I here?
What should I do?
Why do I play the uncool fool, blindsided by the golden rule?
Where is my peace,
Long overdue?
These thoughts in my head are so cruel, bombarded by the uncool fool.

© 2024

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Forgiveness without repentance is selfish and unwise.

How’s that for an opener?

But I only said it because it’s true.

Forgiveness without repentance kills dogs. Not just people.Yeah, if you won’t apply the proper way to forgive, to and for you, won’t you at least save the little puppies. And before you think I’ve gone completely bonkers, let me show you an example of how this claim is true. But not just any old random example. No, this actually happened to some people Elgielene and I know.

Yesterday, she got a text message from a friend who basically said something like, “Call me when you can. Something tragic has happened.”

Naturally, as you might imagine, that sparked our curiosity. And we hoped it wouldn’t be a message this friend’s husband had died. Or something awful like that.

And the reason our first guess went to the friend’s husband is because he works for the sheriff’s department in the county where he lives. So, it wouldn’t be much of a stretch to think something awful might’ve happened to him in the line of duty.

As it turns out, you could say something DID happen to him in the line of duty.But not his typical county sheriff’s duty.

No, he simply took the family dog, a cute little rescue dog named Lily, out for her morning constitutional. As he walked her down the street, he noticed a guy far down the block eyeballing him in a strange way. Of course, being in the police force, he’s more tuned in to strange behavior than most. But he kept moving along, slowly, as Lily sniffed and did her doggie stuff.

Suddenly, the guy down the block jumped into his car, peeled out of the driveway, turned in the direction of our friend and his dog, and peeled out again. He flew by the first time. But he screeched to a stop at the other end of the block, did a loud turn around, and flew by our friend and his dog again.

Of course, now our friend was on full alert. But, in situations as unpredictable as that, it’s not clear what to prepare for or avoid. Sure enough, the wackadoo spun his car around and headed right back at our friend and little Lily one more time.

But this time, the creep turned his car right at them. And our friend jumped off the sidewalk into a wooden fence, while, at the same time, trying to grab Lily. Unfortunately the driver was upon them so fast he scraped across our friend’s left arm and leg. And the force of that impact, which caused some serious injuries to our friend, knocked off the creep’s mirror. But worse than that, Lily was literally flattened.

This all took place a couple of weeks ago.But the horrible vehicular murder attempt was only the beginning of our friends’ troubles. Because, now, they’re discovering, firsthand, how America no longer has a justice system. Now, it’s JUST A SYSTEM.

And they’re mired in a legal battle to punish a guy who has already been “forgiven” of several previous devious deeds. Yep. Those forgiven deeds, which required no repentance or remorse from the perpetrator, directly led to our friends’ dead dog. You can see it another way, if you choose to, but only if you’re comfortable with being wrong.

Yes, there are so-called “lawyers” working to get the scumbag driver cleared of all charges.

Uh-huh. They’re working to see that he’s not punished. And unpunished crimes ALWAYS lead to more criminals.

Our “open” border with Mexico is a daily illustration of that fact. But, no big deal right? Who cares?

OK, there are a lot of people who would say I talk a mean streak about the problems, but I don’t offer viable solutions. Of course, those are people who never read or hear solutions I’ve written and spoken about. But, to them, I offer this first “step in the right direction.” Whatever we’ve been doing for 50 years (and longer), stop doing THAT.

Yeah. Just stop what we’ve been doing. Because it has NOT worked. And it has zero hope of success. Because you can’t layer law after law after law and expect people to keep the law. Human history proves that.

Circumstances, laws, money, and policies don’t change you.

You only change when your heart of hearts changes. And it can only change when you let the one who created your heart be your guiding Light.

Every day you’re closer to the time when you won’t have the freedom to choose anymore. And this isn’t like a marketing ploy of scarcity. It’s a fact. You’re gonna reach the end of your days, here on Earth. And then you’ll be somewhere else. That location depends on whether you ask for forgiveness or not. But, remember, you can’t try to get forgiveness without repentance.

After all, if you’re not sorry for hurting yourself and others, why should anyone else be sorry for you?

Think about what I’ve shared with you as you walk your dog today. Or as you sit in your favorite sidewalk café enjoying your favorite treat. Or even as you’re shopping at the local farmer’s market. Whatever you might be doing today, it might be the last day you’ll be doing it. Our friends’ story is an example of how quickly everything can change. So, that’s why I said this in a song…

Give Me The LightWell, the light shines, and it’s coming from above.
I can’t ignore it because I know deep down it’s Love,
And it shows me that the time is close at hand,
And I’m beginning to think I might just understand.
I’ve waited so long for the perfect time and place,
And made a whole lot of mistakes I can’t erase.
Destined to live in darkness I supposed,
But you can’t see the Light when your eyes are closed.

So gimme the Light oh give me the Light of Your Love.
Gimme the Light. I wanna see how good it can be.
Gimme the Light oh give me the Light of Your Love.
And gimme the Light that truly sets this blind man free.

Well, I daydream, and I do my best to fly,
But something holds me; it doesn’t matter how I try.
Oh, but someday, when You say the time is right,
I know I’ll fly up and live forever in Your light.

repeat bridge & chorus…inst…repeat chorus twice

© 1984-1998 Tony Funderburk

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I don’t fly the unfriendly skies anymore. Because I don’t wanna be stuck in an unsanitary tube, soaring through the air at 35000 feet up, with a passenger list that includes people who hate each other and God.

But, hey, that’s probably just me.

Anyway…

Here’s why I bring up my aversion to airline travel (the same is true for just about any mass transit).

Whatever happens in this world is temporary. When you know you’re gonna live forever with the one, true, living, loving Creator of heaven and earth, you should be able to trust Him and be of good cheer. One day you’ll leave this world full of hardships and filthiness and live forever in a real paradise. And it won’t be some Hollywood, make-believe, physics-defying world of mystical magic. It’ll be a real place with real human beings and real surroundings.

And most importantly, the real God.

Wait. You ARE going. Right?

Please tell me your name is already on the passenger list?Because your ticket has already been paid for and all you gotta do is sign your name, so to speak. Yeah, you definitely need to confirm you wanna make the trip. And all it takes is humility. If you wanna know more about it, I’ll be glad to share whatever I can to help. Because I’d sure like to see you, one day, in that…

Real ParadiseI don’t believe
In magic…hocus pocus.
I do believe
My treasure’s where I focus.

Jesus, Redeemer, Creator of Heaven
Tells every dear Christian who dies…
We will be with him forever and ever.
Now I call that real paradise.

You can receive
A blessing you can’t pay for.
What would you waste
Another single day for?

Jesus, the Savior, and Great Overcomer
Will love you and open your eyes.
There is no sin that His blood will not cover.
Now, I call that real paradise.

Instrumental…

I love the way His promise won’t forsake me.
And there’s no end to where His Grace will take me.

Jesus, the Lamb, without spot without blemish,
The Truth who the world still denies.
The world is against me, but Jesus is for me.
Now I call that real paradise.

© 2001-2009

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This dreadful message is dark. Too dark for the front page news and prime time. So, you won’t see or hear it unless you tune into channels where people share the truth even when it’s unpopular. I’ve shared that kind of truth for decades. And I haven’t enjoyed even one day of it. Not even before I lost most of my “friends” because I dared to speak up this way.

Thankfully, these days, I can create my own front page news.Of course, my humble publication is far from a worldwide phenomenon. But it CAN be seen and heard worldwide. At least for now. And I can see, with the help of analytics software, that my posts and podcast episodes are seen and heard by a lot of people in parts of the world I’ll never visit.

And here’s the reason I bring it up. Because, after almost 60 years, there’s still a killing spree going on right here in America (and around the world), and the vast majority of human beings couldn’t care less.

If someone took a so-called “assault weapon” into crowded areas and killed over 1000 people a day, don’t you think they’d be front page news? They’d be top story on every TV “news” channel. And their face would be plastered on every media around the world. Especially if the “news” organization could spin the story into some sort of white and right wing connection.

Of course, if someone could kill that many innocent bystanders, their evil face SHOULD be known to all.

But that sort of killing spree DOES take place every day here in America.And only “right-wing extremists” like me seem to be willing to tell the story.

But I gotta tell you something about me. I Hate, with a capital H, to tell this story. Because it exposes the awful truth about my country. And I love America. But America has gone the way of every other powerful nation or empire in history. We’re no longer the bright, beacon of hope to a wayward world.

I wrote a song about this back in 2002. It’s not an upbeat song. It’s not an anthem. And it’s not a song that’ll ever get any “airplay” or streaming time. But I wanted to write a song about this dark side of our culture in a way that maybe gave the story some humanity. You can let me know if you think it does that.

Side note: the song mentions 40 years. Sadly, another 20 years has been added. Wouldn’t it be awesome to wake up to this front page news, tomorrow? “Legalized Abortion Abolished”

Killin’ SpreeWay down along the river,
Beneath a willow tree,
An awful sight in the damp twilight,
They found the boy named Lee.
His mother can’t believe it.
His father can’t be found.
There’s his battered face, and his dying place
On that muddy Georgia ground.

Been forty years in this killin’ spree…
It’ll lead to ruin…the undoin’ of you and me.
If it weren’t for Jesus, Grace, and Mercy,
We’d all be found guilty…in this killin’ spree!

Inside a broken promise
There lives a shattered dream.
A young girl stands with cradled hands.
Her tears become a stream.
With no one there beside her
She walks in through the door.
She cannot smile or reconcile
Why her heart can feel no more.

chorus

Where we gonna go?
What we gonna do?
And who can we depend on?
Can you tell me who?
Random thoughts and deeds…
And random source of life…
Random is the bride we take
Who becomes a cheating wife.

© 2002

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Before I get into what a mess you are, let me first say Happy Super Tuesday. I have no clue what that means. But apparently there’s some holiday being celebrated, and that’s what they call it. Now, where was I? Oh yeah. You’re a mess. I know you are. Beyond a shadow of a doubt. And I know it because it’s a human condition. Bad choices. And a strong tendency toward selfishness. Trouble is, there’s no cure for it. Because, as a whole, humans don’t learn from their mistakes. We don’t know our history. So, we’re probably doomed to repeat it.

So, here are 3 ways I know this beyond a shadow of a doubt.1. Truth: Control freaks cast shadows on the truth. Truth is their mortal enemy. So they have to pound out lies, with consistent resolve, until the truth becomes nothing more than a cloudy concept. Truth becomes “whatever you make of it.” Or whatever is “right in their own minds.” Nazis believed all you need to do to twist a lie into the truth is tell one that’s “big enough and keep repeating it, people will eventually become to believe it.” Of course, that happens all around you, everywhere, every day. All you gotta do is pay attention.

2. Morality: This is another area under constant attack by those who want to justify their behavior. When you reduce right and wrong to whatever is “right in their own minds,” you produce a culture where anything goes. Then everything goes…out the window. Who knows where that might lead? You might even find adults killing babies. Well, at least that couldn’t happen here in America. Right? So, let’s don’t think about that. Let’s go shopping.

3. Property: Once people realized they could vote the money away from the wealthy and into their own pockets, then the proverbial (and political) genie was out of the bottle. So, politicians run for office (and win) using promises based on redistribution of wealth. It’s not just wrong. It’s evil. Because it destroys lives. But who cares, right? It’s just the way things are. The status quo. I’m gonna get mine as long as the gettin’s good. Ok, where do we sign up?

Well, here’s what I think about it. Beyond a shadow of a doubt…

Nothin’s Sacred AnymoreTake the truth and lock it up, and throw away the key
Winds of change are blowing foul; a dance with destiny
Blur the face of love and sex and say it’s all OK
Tell the child it’s just a choice and melt her soul away

Nothin’s sacred anymore.
Can’t we learn from mistakes when they cut to the core.
Nothin’s sacred anymore.
And should we be surprised since we’ve opened that dark, wide door?
Nothin’s sacred anymore.

Cast your vote for social growth and then say yes to law
Keep the peace, divide the wealth; the vision Adolph saw
Hedge the bets and ride the fence; the middle road’s secure
Then one day you’re head to head with all you must endure

Nothin’s sacred anymore.
Can’t we learn from mistakes when they cut to the core.
Nothin’s sacred anymore.
And should we be surprised since we’ve opened that dark, wide door?
Nothin’s sacred anymore.

More! More space and time. More would be sublime.
Someone else can pay long as I get mine today.
Ain’t nothin’ sacred anymore.

© 2002

(lyrics and song found in one of my songbook journals on Amazon)

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So. There’s this little protoplanet named “Vesta.” And, as it churns out, little Vesta might have some clues as to how life on Earth might have formed? Yeah, scientists discovered some areas of impact on the “minor planet” that seem to show “collisions with carbon rich asteroids.” And of course, they emphasize that carbon is the essential building block to all life on earth, from single cell to human.

All that information on a little protoplanet.But what, in the universe, is a protoplanet? Well, there’s this (lying) definition you can easily find online:

“A large body of matter in orbit around the sun or a star and thought to be developing into a planet – This analysis supported the view that the moon originated from a glancing collision between the earth and another protoplanet 4,500 million years ago.”

But don’t listen to stupid descriptions and definitions like that. Because they just love to bandy humongous numbers around in order to eliminate the possibility of a Creator or Designer of the universe and life. After all, there’s no evidence, of any kind whatsoever, that planets and/or protoplanets existed 4500 million years ago. Because there’s no evidence, of any kind whatsoever, that material things (aka: matter) existed then.

And yet, there’s oodles and oodles (words to describe numbers even bigger than millions) of evidence to suggest that Earth came into existence only thousands of years ago. No, you don’t have to look at any of that evidence. You can choose to totally ignore it ALL. But I suggest you consider the consequences of that choice.

Here’s a little roundabout explanation for why I say that:

When a human being dies, the same carbon that was there before death is still there. Yeah, all the ingredients, so to speak, are contained in that dead body.

So it’s one of those things that should make you go, “hmm.”Why is there no life in that remaining carbon? Because, if it’s the essential building block of all life on Earth, why does a carbon-rich body die?

I’m not a scientist…and I don’t play one on TV. And I’m not a physicist or alchemist or biologist. I’m just a humble Rhyme and Reason guy. A guy who probably contains as much carbon as anyone in those other professions. And I’m a guy, who, like everyone else, has a time limit for my LIFE here on earth.

But if and when my time to die arrives, my carbon will still be here. So my life did not arise from or depend on carbon. And real science shows the enormity of complexity in human DNA. The code in a single human cell fills volumes of information.

You have your own unique DNA. Everyone does. My finite mind can barely apprehend (and certainly not comprehend) the almost infinite implications of that. But I can say this without hesitation. DNA clearly shows we’re information based.

Not carbon.It’s sort of like this: my computer is a cool looking device. But without the information in the software, it’s just an intricately designed, shapely piece of aluminum. It’s “lifeless.” And no amount of added aluminum will ever get it to calculate, punctuate, or create a single image, sentence, or sound without help from life and information based people.

I wish scientists who trust in carbon could get real and approach life from the information base. I believe they’d be better equipped to process that information and build a much better understanding of life, love, and design. And they wouldn’t be looking for reasons why we exist on a protoplanet.

Yeah, they might even develop a trust in the Designer.

Hey, a guy can wish, can’t he?

Here we stand
While the clock is tickin’ we’re alive and kickin’.
Time moves on.
But we must remember, keep a burnin’ ember.
Let’s go out and capture life together!

(from my song “Let’s Capture Life Together”)

© 2020

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The post Protoplanet Vesta for the brain that’s on siesta appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Who wants to listen to (much less, sing) a bunch of old songs with a bunch of thee’s, thy’s, and thou’s? I mean, not only is that stuff not cool, it just sounds weird. Yeah, the old hymns lyrics say stuff that nobody even understands anymore. Right?

Well, old hymns lyrics might be hard to understand. But not impossible.Most of the old hymns lyrics talk about a living, loving Father who shows compassion to all who ask for it. As this example from the song, Great Is Thy Faithfulness, shows. It’s the second verse in most hymnals (and, yes, I know that’s an uncool thing to talk about, too). Here’s the verse:

Summer and winter and springtime and harvest,
Sun, moon and stars in their courses above
Join with all nature in manifold witness
To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.

Those lyrics simply show how the almost endless, observable forces of nature and the universe show God’s mercy and love.

And the first verse of the song expresses the hope you can have for each new morning. The hope which can only come from this God. He provides, and has always provided, everything you need.

Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father;
There is no shadow of turning with Thee;
Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not;
As Thou hast been, Thou forever will be.

Sure, there are a lot of those TH words.That’s what I call ’em. Thy, thee, thou, thine. But you can basically just change them all to some form of you or your. And then the meaning is clear.

Side note: when those lyrics say “thou changest not,” they allude to God’s nature. He’s always been, is now, and always will be good, living, loving, personal, and relational. But He has also changed over the course of time. A LOT. And all for your sake. And mine.

Your Creator has made an everlasting pardon for your many terrible mistakes available to anyone who asks Him. Anyone who asks with genuine repentance that is. And when you do, you’ll receive the peace that endures forever. Because you’ll receive the Spirit of everlasting Life from Jesus. That message comes through in another verse from the song:

Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!

Remember this…God doesn’t give you a spirit of fear. He gave you a “spirit of power, and of love, and of a sound mind“. If you’re not experiencing the strength and hope for a bright tomorrow, it’s most likely because you’re still depending on yourself or your things or something worse. My recommendation is that you don’t have faith in YOUR faith. Have faith in His. As the old hymn’s lyrics say:

Great is Thy faithfulness!
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see.
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided;
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!

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The post Old hymns lyrics say so much in a better way appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I remember Ted Kennedy’s shaky voice, during a eulogy for his brother Robert, as he quoted George Bernard Shaw who said, “Some men see things as they are and ask why. Others dream things that never were and ask why not.” I’m not sure Ted OR Robert were capable of anything more than why and why not questions. I hope so. But I won’t know until I leave this world. And maybe then it won’t matter. But I DO know that KNOWING why is awesome.

Because knowing why melts away a lot of the wondering in the world.And the biggest why question is the one about our existence. Why are we here? If you don’t KNOW the answer to that, you’re liable to come up with all sorts of foolish stuff. Not the least of which (in fact, maybe the most of which) is how everything came from nothing.

Foolishness. And for one main human reason. And one main supernatural reason.

The human reason is: there’s NO such thing as nothing.

The supernatural reason: something from nothing isn’t natural. It doesn’t happen. So, if it DID happen, it would have to be supernatural. Above that which is natural. Outside of all that is natural. Beyond everything that is natural.

Supernatural!

Uh-oh. That takes us toward a supernatural Designer. Because all of creation is FULL of design. And you can’t logically look at design and say it happened all by itself. You know, automatically, it had a designer. And this highly complex world, solar system, galaxy, and universe we live in is held together by design. Not accidentally.

I pondered that sort of thing, way back in 1987, when I still hadn’t found the love of my life. And I wrote a poem (because, yeah, that’s what real thinking men do) about my questions. A lot of why questions. But I ended the poem with an acknowledgment of my ability to KNOW even when I didn’t have an answer. And here’s how it went/goes…

Knowing WhyI pause; I wonder,
And see myself through a magnifying glass.
l ask a question,
And give myself a test that I may never pass.

I yearn for freedom;
I don’t belong in a complicated life.
My needs are simple;
A mountain home and perhaps a loving wife.

So why can’t I make this happen?
Why don’t my dreams come true?
Why is the picture always fading?
And why can’t I change my view?

Why don’t things change no matter how I try?
And why do I constantly ask myself why?

I sit. l listen,
And try to hear all the music in my head.

A song; a feeling.
I need someone to understand what I’ve said.

When I’m being optimistic
I know I’ll be fine.
Asking why is realistic;
Knowing why, divine.

© 1987 (August 26)

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The post Knowing why makes me a happy guy appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

A train can’t make turns at the next intersection the way your car or pickup can. They have to follow the tracks. But even trains can go just about anywhere. Because there isn’t just one set of tracks.

But they don’t get to follow the tracks in more than one direction at a time.Not only is it impossible, it’s a misguided idea to even try.

So, what does this have to do with anything in your life? Maybe nothing. In fact, I know most of the people who read what I write or listen to what I say on my podcast don’t have an issue with trying to follow multiple tracks in life. But you might not be one of them. And you might be someone who, like Mary MacGregor sang back in 1976, is torn between two lovers. One of them is YOU. And the other is the “higher power” you sense is “somewhere out there.”

All this fuzzy philosophical stuff came up in my brain when I looked at a picture someone shared on social media. It’s an account filled with amazing photography and art. Beautiful colors. Amazing settings. Just plain fun to see.

One of the pictures was of what appeared to be lighting on some railroad tracks. And, in my fat-headed poet brain, the image represented the journey you and I take in this life. So many people want to know the meaning of life. But way too many of them believe it can be discovered if you just “follow your heart.”

And then, before they know it, in a FLASH, it’s over.If you’re still young, that won’t have nearly the impact it does on people who’ve lived several decades. But it’s SO true anyway. And when you consider how long eternity will be, your time on earth will eventually seem faster than the time it takes lightning to strike.

So, my recommendation is to pick a “lover.” But I highly recommend you check into the “higher power” option. Because there most definitely IS a higher power. And He created you. He has the most famous name ever. And, sadly, way too many people are uncomfortable with the mention of it.

But you’re only here because Jesus made it possible for you to be alive. And He made it possible for you to have the option of eternal life. There IS a sort of catch. He is the ONLY way to that eternal life. You might say He laid the tracks and it’s up to you to choose to follow those tracks. In fact, I just said it.

So, will you do that? Or will you just be another flash of…

Lightning On The TracksLightnin’ on the tracks
And dancin’ in the sky.
Electrical collusion
In the quest for knowing why
We are here.

Parallel begins
The journey to one place,
Away from Earth’s delusion
And straight into God’s grace
With no fear.

© 2023

Stay tuned,

Your support means more than you know. And in case you’d like to know how you can…

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(https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B008R08LUG/allbooks)
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https://www.TonyFunderburk.com/singer-songwriter

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The post Follow the tracks as the light that refracts appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I think about what she said, more often, these days.

I’m talkin’ about what my Grandmother said, as I sat on her front porch snapping green beans with her. It was during a couple of years when my brother and I lived with our Dad’s parents while he worked on setting up a new home life.

Dad and Mom divorced when I was about four and my brother was two and a half. Since he was given custody of us, he asked our Grandparents to take care of us, most of the time, so he could find another wife and someone who could be the “mother figure” in our lives. This was, of course, before feminism ruined so many households. But that’s another topic for another time.

Anyway…

Back to what my Grandmother said.

And I don’t think enough old people tell young people this stuff these days.I remember it like it was yesterday. Despite the fact that it was decades ago. Grandmother sat on her porch chair, the metal clamshell style, with a large enameled metal bowl, full of green beans from their back yard garden, in her lap. I sat in the other chair with a smaller bowl in my lap. And we snapped green beans. And she talked while I listened.

“Enjoy this peaceful, wonderful day, and don’t take it for granted,” she said. “Because, one of these days, you might be my age and most of, or all of, the people you love will be gone for good.”

I remember thinking to myself, “Why do old people talk this way?” Of course, being a pre-schooler, I couldn’t have seen how Grandmother was speaking from experience. I was too young to grasp the depth of her advice. But, even a young age, I had enough respect for my elders to listen and pay attention.

And for some reason, I enjoyed snapping green beans.

Now, let’s fast forward to THESE days.

I’m about 10 years older than Grandmother was when she gave me that advice. And as of 2021, the fullness of her prediction came true. All those people I loved, except for my brother, are gone for good. In February, it’ll be three years ago already that Mom was the last to go.

They’re all gone.But I’m one of the fortunate ones in this world. Because I have the hope of seeing them again. Because my Grandparents AND my parents believed in and trusted Jesus.

I know. At first you thought I was just gonna share a little of my good ol’ Americana story. But then I had to go and spoil it all by saying something about Jesus. (side note: for some reason Frank and Nancy Sinatra popped into my mind)

But here’s the thing.

I would never have any nostalgic stories to share if it wasn’t for Jesus. And neither would you for that matter. Because He created us. For crying out loud, without a Manufacturer, there are NO manufactured goods. Without a Designer, there’s no design. Without a Creator, there’s no creation. You get the idea. Right?

The image of sitting on the porch with my Grandmother came into my head after I read about a Christian brother whose wife died a couple of days ago. And this has recently happened with a couple of my other friends, too. Fortunately, each of them has the hope of seeing their wives again. And that hope is because of their faith in Jesus.

If you’re reading this without that kind of hope, I hope that changes for you very soon.

Because these days the end of this world is closer than you’ve ever known.You don’t know, for certain, you’ll even make it to lunch. And without the hope of life after death, that uncertainty will only lead to torment. And even though most people in the world ignore the solution to that problem, it’s so easy to avoid. But the solution requires humility. The kind of humility that selfish people don’t wanna think about.

Humility that says there IS a God of creation, you’re NOT Him, and He IS the source of faith, hope, and love.

Most people who read what I write or listen to what I say already know this. But if you just happened to land on my website, or someone else sent you this message, maybe you need to hear that your problems DO have a solution. And if it makes sense and you want the problems solved, don’t put it off. Remember…

“Enjoy this peaceful, wonderful day, and don’t take it for granted. Because, one of these days, you might be my age and most of, or all of, the people you love will be gone for good.”

There’s no difference when going first to last.
Lord we need you like generations passed.
Give us strength for this life.
And help us always focus our gaze,
With our eyes on the Prize, because these…
Are the Bible days.

(from the song of the same name)

By the way I can always use your support to help me keep the nearly 3000 posts I’ve shared on my website available to the world that needs to see and hear about the one, true, living, loving God of creation. So, see if one of my books suits your fancy. Get one for yourself or for someone you love. Here’s a link to check ‘em out:

(https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B008R08LUG/allbooks)

Stay tuned,

The post These days will be gone. Will you go on? appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

What does it take to see the color of music? Well, take an old boom box, some music, paints, and an ultra slow motion camera, and you’ve got the ingredients for razzle dazzle. Check out this video:

Here’s the link to the colorful, slow-motion video in case that works better for you:

(https://youtu.be/5WKU7gG_ApU)

Yeah, I know that’s a multimedia way to illustrate the color of music.Because music doesn’t actually have a physical color. Neither do words. But words and music (and many other sounds) can paint the most beautiful, colorful pictures in your head.

50 years ago, when I was even younger than I am now, I carried a 19 cents Bic pen and a spiral notebook with me everywhere I went. Because I wanted to be prepared, at all times, to write down any and all poetry that worked its way to the right side of my brain.

For the first eight months of that year I lived in a small town, of about 1500 people, in Eastern Kansas. (life sure can circle back on itself, but more about that some other time)

Anyway…

I remember a drive out into the Kansas countryside one Spring day after a rain. I had decided to take in the damp, fresh air, and rural scenery to see what ideas might spring up (see what I did there?). And I figured I was prepared to talk about fast-moving streams. Or fertile, green fields of grass. Or even rainbows of wildflowers.

But, instead, I pulled over and stopped next to an old country fence. There was sort of wide spot in the road, and there was no traffic, because, well, as I said, it was rural Kansas. And I rolled down the window and sat there listening to nature. No city sounds. No hustle bustle urban sounds. Only the hustle bustle (wow, I think that’s the most times I’ve ever said hustle bustle in one paragraph…nope, I just added another one) of birds and bugs and breezes.

Then, I saw it.A drop of rain. At the very tip of a limb on young sapling. I wondered how the little drop could just hang on to that limb. Why didn’t it fall off? And then, a sun ray made its way into the little drop, and it started to shine out a tiny rainbow.

It was such a small, almost insignificant moment. But I knew I was the only person in the world who was ever gonna see that particular drop of rain on that particular limb. Yeah, I know that might not mean a darn thing to you. And you might even think it’s silly to place such emphasis on something that happens trillions of times every day.

But, even in the smallest things, I see ways to appreciate what a complex, yet simple, world God created for us. And, being a poet, it brings me great pleasure to write about as much of it as possible.

So, on that Kansas spring day, all those years ago, I thought about the color of music as I wrote…

GlistenIf you could listen to a glisten,
What do you think you would hear?
I think the sound that would be found
Would ring out sparkling clear.

Glisten is the happy sound of happy children
In their happy worlds.
What a joy to enjoy when curled-up glistens
Are uncurled.
Make for me a glisten I can hold inside my hand.
I could carry it with me, and
I wouldn’t need a band.

This is but a moment in our lifetime.
I’m a word and you’re a word, and we rhyme.
If we glisten along our paths,
Our paths will glisten too,
And if you glisten for me,
I know I’ll glisten for you.

© 1974

Now, why waste time going online to find all my really refreshing Rhymes and Reasons? Just jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon. And I’ll send them directly to your inbox. Do it now, and I’ll send you some songs and some other surprises: https://www.TonyFunderburk.com

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The post Color of music there was anything but rare appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I can hardly believe it’s already been almost 4 years. But the calendar doesn’t lie. And the metadata in the documents I saved doesn’t either. Yeah, almost 4 years since I produced rough cuts to several new songs. And I have a couple of main reasons why I call them “rough cuts.” One of those songs is called “I Can Do.” And, yes, it’s one of the many songs I’ve written where I swim upstream against current trends. But so be it.

It’s part of my job description to swim upstream against the trends of the world.And, no, I don’t get some sort of surreptitious pleasure from going against the grain. In fact, I wish my worldview and songwriting style were more the norm. But that ain’t gonna happen. So I know those opportunities I passed up on, back in the day, for recording deals, are the only ones I’ll ever have.

But I know the One who created me, AND made sure I can live forever, is much more pleased with my choice. And He said the world hated Him before it ever hated me. So, I’m in the best of company.

Anyway…

Back to those songs. There are seven of them. So far. And I have a deep and abiding desire to produce them from rough cuts to smooth. But, to my constant consternation, for six years, respiratory issues have kept me from accomplishing that goal. And my wife and I have moved to two entirely different parts of the country to hopefully help alleviate those issues.

Right now I’m gaining some cautious optimism that maybe I’m making some progress (Your prayers are desired and appreciated). And I hope I can do some recording, soon, and make some tracks. Sadly I’ve had that hope dashed against the rocks a few times in the past six years. But the thing about real hope is, it springs eternal.

So, that being said, here’s a snippet of lyrics from a little song in B flat called…

I Can DoOutside the lines the grass is greener.
But that will not change my demeanor.
Because my life runs like a river.
I’ll take what all my days deliver.

I know the morning sun will shine,
And so, I’ll draw another line.
I’ll keep a box of all my most important things
Inside my heart where they can be
A constant song of joy to me.
I love the sound of optimism when it sings.

I can do…what I need to. I know it’s so, so I can do!

The rest is reserved for when I fully produce this song and the others. Until then, you can dive into lots of my other songs, AND all kinds of books, when you click or tap this link:

(https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B008R08LUG/allbooks)

Stay tuned,

The post I Can Do. And in B flat, too appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

They’re not scary when you use even a little of the wisdom and discernment your Creator is willing to give you. I’m talking about health headlines. But if you read them without wisdom and discernment, as if they’re actually full-blown facts, you might start feeling like calling up the suicide hotline.

Because the vast majority of news sources would prefer you to stay locked down, inside your house, and in front of your computer or TV with fear in your heart. Of course, I could just be a conspiracy nut. And, in that case, skip the rest of this raving rant. Save yourself some more time for the fear news.

But check out these health headlines from today 1/4/2024 before you go:* FDA probes side effects of weight-loss drugs * Possible Ozempic side effects including hair loss and suicidal thoughts probed by FDA * FDA examining side effect reports with Lilly, Novo obesity drugs * Highly contagious measles exposures in Philadelphia announced in unvaccinated residents * Flu misery, COVID on the rise due to lack of vaccination * ‘Take prevention seriously’: SC urges caution as respiratory illness remain high * SC flu cases, COVID-19 hospitalizations on the rise following holiday season * As flu cases spike, local hospital adjusts visiting policies

For 50 years I’ve been writing and talking about how this kind of world could and would happen. At first it was innocuous “laws” and policies to simply “provide protection” from accidents. You know. Helmets for motorcycles. And seatbelts for cars. I’m not against those, by the way. But the “laws?” Not so much.

I’m not gonna bore you with some decades long timetable. Because all that data probably wouldn’t change 1 mind out of 10. Probably wouldn’t turn 1 person’s heart, out of 10, toward their Maker.

I CAN tell you the news isn’t likely to get better any time soon.And that includes health headlines, business headlines, and political headlines. So, I just recommend that you at least scan the headlines and bullet points on major news sites. And don’t be surprised when you see how similar, almost eerily similar, they are to each other. It all reminds me of the lyrics I wrote over 25 years ago. It was a song called Cliché. Here’s a verse…

We want to live in a fat-free environment, and
We want to make sure the ozone is intact.
And so we watch all those service commercials, and
It’s just so easy to sit back and react.
Is it just melodrama…for me to feel this way?
I wonder…is it just me?
Or does it all sound so cliché?
Does it sound that way? So cliché?

Cliché, and 12 other songs are included in my Do Right songbook journal. Get yourself a copy on Amazon today. It won’t build your immune system. But it might help you connect with the One who designed that system.

Stay tuned,

The post Health headlines today keep common sense away appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

None

America has gone from one end of the spectrum to the other when it comes to what is revered. I was born into a country that, while it was already very messed up, still placed a high value on Christian principles. But now there’s sacred places, sacred idols, and sacred geometry. But no respect for THE sacred God.

Uh-oh. Them there’s fightin’ words. How dare I emphasize THE and use the word, God, with a capital G?! Because everyone should know, by now, that “your God” is no better than someone else’s.

Hmm, I wonder if we can use sacred geometry to test that?Here’s a quote from something I read on a “new age” website: “Sacred geometry is made of different symbols considered to be the basis of all matter in the Universe across various religions and cultures.”

Notice how Universe has a capital U? Sure, that’s OK. Because it seems to include all there is. So no one needs to feel left out. And while I don’t want anyone to be “left out,” I also don’t want to deny anyone the freedom to BE left out if it’s what they prefer. Yeah, even exclusion should be included.

Sounds weird, right?

But what’s actually weird is to believe sacred geometry is sacred. Or that symbols and numbers can somehow hold power.

I’m sure you know I’m not making this up.Here’s another clip from that same article I read that talks about the power in the triangle:

“The first shape that can be formed from more than one line, the triangle is a representation of 3, the number of sacred creation. And in ancient Nordic cultures and countless across the world the number three is said to hold powerful mystical properties, symbolizing harmony and balance. They can represent the mother, father, and child; mind, body, and spirit. And pointing upwards is indicative of rising consciousness (a downward pointing triangle relates to the Divine Feminine). The pyramids are famous physical 3D examples of this structure, composed of four triangles and a square base, a tetrahedron.”

Basically all such nonsense is based on anything and everything to contradict the God of the Bible. Notice how the triangle pointing up is focused on your consciousness. And the “downward pointing triangle relates to the Divine Feminine.” One is you-focused. The other is opposite of the masculine God.

I also read this about sacred geometry and its forms: “These are the only five regular polyhedra, that is, the only five solids made from the same equilateral, equiangular polygons. To the Greeks, these solids symbolized fire, earth, air, spirit (or ether) and water, respectively.”

FYI: ether and spirit are not synonymous.I’m sure they’re not talking about the ether where sodium is dissolved in ethereal solutions of aromatic ketones. But even their ethereal intentions can’t equate ether to spirit. Because spirit extends to us from THE Spirit. THE source of Life. The one who spoke the universe into existence. God, with a capital G. And without Him there wouldn’t be sacred geometry, ecclesiastical trigonometry, or mystical ‘Rithmetic.

Here’s the thing.

Placing the word, sacred, in front of something doesn’t make it sacred. In fact, it almost always leans the opposite direction. And it always takes the focus away from what and who IS sacred.

But I’m sure that’s the intention. Whether “new age” people would ever admit that or not.

And here’s one of the multitude of things I love about THE God of creation. He didn’t create you and me to be robots who could do nothing but love Him. We’re free to actually hate Him. I don’t recommend that. But it’s the number one choice by most of the people on the planet. Even as the majority of them would likely claim they don’t hate anyone.

So, when you fall for the smoke-and-mirrors shadow of truth, and deny THE Truth, you’re bound to re-create a world where…

Nothin’s Sacred AnymoreTake the truth and lock it up, and throw away the key.
Winds of change are blowing foul; a dance with destiny.
Blur the face of love and sex and say it’s all OK.
Tell the child it’s just a choice and melt her soul away.

Nothin’s sacred anymore…
Can’t we learn from mistakes when they cut to the core?
Nothin’s sacred anymore…
And should we be surprised since we’ve opened that dark, wide door?
Nothin’s sacred anymore.

Cast your vote for social growth and then say yes to law.
Keep the peace, divide the wealth; the vision Adolph saw.
Hedge the bets and ride the fence; the middle road’s secure.
Then one day you’re head to head with all you must endure.

Nothin’s sacred anymore…
Can’t we learn from mistakes when they cut to the core?
Nothin’s sacred anymore…
And should we be surprised since we’ve opened that dark, wide door?
Nothin’s sacred anymore.

More, more space and time.
More would be sublime.
Someone else can pay…long as I get mine today.
Ain’t nothin’ sacred anymore.

©2002

Stay tuned,

The post Sacred geometry and smoke and mirrored imagery appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Fires burn down beautiful places. Volcanoes erupt and destroy communities. Hurricanes blast entire cities. Tornadoes uproot even the heartiest of trees. Mudslides annihilate peaceful homes that were minding their own business. And through it all the Earth remains. Yeah, the … Read the rest

The post The Earth remains and the fool complains appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Do you have siblings? If so, did you ever get into arguments with them when you were kids? No, who does that, right? Seriously, if you have a brother or sister (or a bunch of them like Elgielene does), you … Read the rest

The post Just because I can. That’s why I do, man. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I wonder how many teenagers realize they’re walking, ticking timebombs. Have they seen the headline, “An Abortion Ban Made Them Teen Parents.” And do they know they could save themselves just by moving to another state? Because, for now, they … Read the rest

The post Abortion ban is certainly NOT in the can appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Elgielene is visiting her sister this week. Because they’re gonna celebrate their birthdays (which are 2 days apart) together, along with a niece who’s birthday is the same as Elgielene’s. Normally, I wouldn’t bring it up. But yesterday two items … Read the rest

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Your safe place isn’t. Because there’s no safe place on Earth. Sure, there ARE places that, on a certain level, are safer than others. That’s just when it comes to the most violent and in-your-face crimes. But there’s nowhere on … Read the rest

The post Your safe place keeps the same pace appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I certainly appreciate the most important things in life. I’m sure you can relate. Great computer, phone, and tablet. Several devices to watch videos and stream content. Internet access to a world so vast I’ll never see or hear it … Read the rest

The post Most important things still tug at certain strings appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

It makes me mad how some people feel a deep-down, dastardly need to rule over others. Yeah, for them, rule number one is “Do unto others before they can do unto you.” But that rule number one only lasts a … Read the rest

The post Rule number one? Well, it usually isn’t done. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I wrote a rhyme called Face to Face. And it talked about how glorious it’ll be when you see Jesus in person. It WILL be indescribably beautiful and wonderful. Believers will experience all of God’s love for eternity. I also … Read the rest

The post All of God’s love is not kept above appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Here’s a quote that was included in a meme I saw being shared on social media this week. It said, “Do everything with a good heart and expect nothing in return, and you will never be disappointed.” Seems like a … Read the rest

The post A good heart is a poor place to start appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

There’s no such thing as actual transgender. Sure, you can make up words and apply whatever touchy feely definitions you devise in your own mind. But just saying it doesn’t make it true. You can identify. But it doesn’t change … Read the rest

The post No such thing as transgender and one day you’ll return to sender appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

You don’t have to look far to find a financial “guru” who has the solution to your retirement income problems. And they often say your future security depends on your present investments. But the future they talk about is chicken … Read the rest

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Well, it’s all over but the whinin’. Yeah, for all intents and purposes, July is done. And is it just me, or does it seem like there were more than a couple of hot days this month? Yeah, probably just … Read the rest

The post July is done, but this is still fun appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

If you could carry around something invisible that could almost immediately transport you across the world, you’d do it. Right? Well, you’ve got something like that. And you have a way to access it almost anytime you like. Your phone … Read the rest

The post Something invisible inside that only you can hide appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

“It has a very hypnotic groove, a samba, which has a tremendous hypnotic power, rather like good dance music. It doesn’t speed up or slow down. It keeps this constant groove. Plus, the actual samba rhythm is a great one … Read the rest

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I’m the only byline author here on TonyFunderburk.com. And, of course, that makes sense since the website bears my name. In case you’re not familiar with journalism jargon, a byline is just a title of the article and who wrote … Read the rest

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I’ve talked about the Holland–Dozier–Holland songwriting and producing team before when I shared some info about The Supremes and their hit song, “I Hear A Symphony.” And they had another hit, 60 years ago this month, with the song, “Heat … Read the rest

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Ok, all seriousness aside. My brain thinks in rhymes. Not 24 hours a day. But certainly every day. My wife will tell you about (or rather ask you to save her from) my daily rhymes. She’s been with me over … Read the rest

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It’s summer time. And no doubt you’ve been in the garden yourself, or you know someone who has. Or you’ve been to someplace to get some of the good stuff that comes out of a garden. Right? And I can … Read the rest

The post In the garden your mind shouldn’t be left behind appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Here’s a tough one, even for Christians. God is not currently in charge of this world. And again, Jesus tells us that. Three times! He WILL rule this world one day. But He currently does NOT rule. And the evidence … Read the rest

The post In charge or not there’s still a plot appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

It’s mostly just social media noise. And not actual conversation. Oh sure, I suppose if you grew up in a home where everyone yelled at each other at the same time, and called it conversation, social media seems just fine … Read the rest

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It was fifteen years ago, next month, that some friends of mine attempted to put together and display the largest protest sign ever. The event took place in Golden, Colorado (near Denver) to send a message to the Democratic National … Read the rest

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Time travel is real. Before I explain that assertion, I’ll say this. And I’ve said it before, and maybe I’ll say it again sometime. I’ve enjoyed a wide variety of time-travel themed movies and other shows. Because it’s fun to … Read the rest

The post Time travel is real if this direction has appeal appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Update: The CD version of Do Right is currently unavailable. But you can still get the digital download at this link: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=ZX3MBTG37Q9WA Do you know a kid with a vivid imagination? That’s kind of a loaded question. Because basically ALL … Read the rest

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Most every young person has them. Well, I say that as someone who was once a young person who had them. But when I was a young person, the world didn’t seem nearly as hopeless. So, it wasn’t difficult to … Read the rest

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With all the randomness in the universe, and our cute, little solar system, it’s a wonder that we can predict the moon phases with such accuracy. But we’re so good at it (and by “we” I mean earthlings) that we … Read the rest

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Poodle skirts. Roller skates. Hula hoops. What do they have in common? They were each the latest craze, at some point, back in the 1950’s. Then, you had The Twist, The Pony, and even the Monster Mash. Those were the … Read the rest

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Imagination can be an awesome and powerful force. But it can be used for good OR evil. So, it can also be a hypocritical and destructive force. You can imagine yourself flying, on your own power, over the clouds and … Read the rest

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I know you’ve been there done this. Try to sit still and feign interest while the person across from you seems to ramble on and on into the apocalyptic future. And you wonder if you locked the door at home. … Read the rest

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I don’t know why it is. But fat, old guys seem to be the typical Harley riders. And before you look for the page turn or delete button, I’m not gonna ramble on about fat, old guys on motorcycles. I’m … Read the rest

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Well, you can call me Tony Splendorburk. Because I meet the criteria for that title. And it took me a long time to earn it. So I’m gonna own it. That means this post is gonna contain a lot of … Read the rest

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Alabama is one of those states in the so-called Bible Belt. So, it might surprise you to hear that even in small towns, in Alabama, police have to deal with perverts. Yeah, even in public shopping areas. In broad daylight … Read the rest

The post Small towns share the frowns appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

What do these words have in common: abstruse, Delphic, incomprehensible, indecipherable, inexplicable, oracular, paradoxical, recondite, and unfathomable. According to the dictionary, they’re all synonyms of enigmatic. Sounds like I’m about to give a language lesson. But I’m not. This is … Read the rest

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You have a right to defend your livelihood. And this will come as a surprise to way too many people these days. But your right to do that doesn’t come from the government or the constitution. Nope. Rights don’t come … Read the rest

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Back in the day a rainbow was a rainbow. And, for a relatively small group of people, it also represented a promise from God; that He would never flood the earth again. I consider His promise to be proof of … Read the rest

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19000 days. Yes, that’s nineteen thousand days. And that’s a lotta days. But I didn’t just pick a number off the top of my head. No, it’s the approximate number of days I’ve written poetry. Some might say that’s a … Read the rest

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I’ve talked about it before. But something popped up, online, this morning, that brought back a good and sad memory. And it’s about sticks. But not just any kind. I’m talkin’ about Pick Up Sticks. A game that used to … Read the rest

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Tucson, Arizona. Central New Mexico. Music. Moonlight. Dan Fogelberg. Storytelling. All parts of “the road” from a long time ago. And, early this morning, I thought about an incredible, singular experience I had during a full moon drive. Strangely enough, … Read the rest

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Love, peace, and music. I wish those for you. And now, let’s get down to business. No, I’m not smokin’ any halo tobacco. It doesn’t take a dope-smokin’, long-haired, hippy freak to talk about the finer parts of life. And, … Read the rest

The post Benefits of Christian music and hope for my forever land appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Neil Patel, a marketing guy who shares a lot of how-to videos, has a website to help you with keywords and keyphrases for your content. Those are important if you want your website to be found and pull in traffic. … Read the rest

The post Why is Christian music so bad? This doesn’t make me glad. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

“We have nothing to fear but fear itself.” That’s a good line. Even though it does come from a former U.S. president who was so wrong on so many things. But back in that time in American history, even FDR … Read the rest

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Today, I found out, once again, how fragile the hearts and minds of most people are. And it happened with some censored words. And, just in case you think Elon Musk is one of the good guys because he allowed … Read the rest

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How much grass have you eaten lately. NO, I didn’t ask how much you smoked, you knucklehead. And I’m not an advocate of grazing out in your yard. But I bring it up because there are apparently some chlorophyll benefits … Read the rest

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It’s an event where business owners and entrepreneurs go to “spot trends, build partnerships, or secure brand rights for your products.” It’s the Licensing Expo. And it was held in Las Vegas this year. A 60 year old woman, you … Read the rest

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I just want you to know I’m wishing you all the best today. Because I know you’re going through a lot. And I know it can sometimes feel like you’re being tested every day. So, yeah. I’m wishing you all … Read the rest

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When I was a kid, there was a show on TV called Hee Haw. And every weekend, through the summer, I remember the family gathered around the TV set to watch all that “cornpone” humor. It was hosted by Roy … Read the rest

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If I talked to carnations, or lilacs, or even lilies of the valley (and I don’t, in spite of what you might’ve heard), I’d probably say something clever like, “You must’ve been scent from above.” And that’s because there’s nothing … Read the rest

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Ideas have consequences. And, naturally, that statement implies both the positive and negative. And I’m gonna share an example of bad consequences for bad ideas. This is a post I found on a social media platform where the discussion was … Read the rest

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I just read a short article about a Milky Way black hole problem. And you’d better brace yourself. Because this is a serious problem. Here’s a snippet from that article: “A black hole with millions of times more mass than … Read the rest

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Just so you know, right up front, I don’t believe humans turn into angels when they die. Because angels are not the same kind of creation. And they’re already created. And they’ll always BE angels. You and I are already … Read the rest

The post Already created and I am elated appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I hope you haven’t fallen into the SNAP trap. Because it’s obviously difficult to impossible to escape. And just imagine the horror you’d face without the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Brought to you by your most benevolent and trustworthy government. … Read the rest

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“There are things that we’re not going to understand along the way. You have to trust that God knows what He’s doing and working out His plan for your life. His plan is bigger. His plan is greater.” OK, that … Read the rest

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As a part of my process into maturity, I had a lot of naive notions blown to bits. But, as I’ve said before, it was a good thing AND bad thing. Good because with more knowledge came more truth. And … Read the rest

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Remind me to tell you my thoughts on human sovereignty one of these days. I’ve got an interesting perspective on it. But that’s not what I’m sharing with you today. Something else occurred to me, today, as I saw the … Read the rest

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So, if the love of your life says he or she (and those are your only two choices) would like there to be more spontaneity in the relationship, RUN! Because that means they don’t believe in the biogenesis theory. Or, … Read the rest

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Do a Google search for “streets of San Francisco,” and you’ll probably only get results that point to the TV show from back in the 1970’s. And some of those results are links to videos of the opening credits from … Read the rest

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Why are there so many people hell-bent on the destruction and torment of other people? It’s like the world is literally filling up with slime from Satan’s cup. And you don’t even have to watch the “six o’clock news” to … Read the rest

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The digitization of so many things has not been completely advantageous. For guys like me, easy access to digital music production is great. But that same easy access takes away the obstacle of actually having to learn music in order … Read the rest

The post Digital art didn’t steal his heart appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Right up front, I gotta say it. And I know this is anathema to the enlightened, evolutionary worldview. But here it is. There’s no such thing as fossil fuel. Bam! I just attacked the whole fossils evolution connection. And, no, … Read the rest

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I first shared this song over a dozen years ago. And about eight years ago I showed how the lyrics explained more of the whole person who created you and me. I went through the words a little at a … Read the rest

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You’ve probably seen one of those movies or TV shows where tough guys (and these days “tough girls”) compare their war wounds. I just saw another one of those comparisons on a rerun of a show I really liked back … Read the rest

The post War wounds you say? They’re probably child’s play. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Nine years ago I wrote that we live in “particularly dangerous times.” And I’m happy to report that the worst has blown over and you’re safe once again. Go back to your daily routine without worry. And without fear. But … Read the rest

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Of course, most of that influencer stuff is hype and silliness. Sure, it can definitely be done. But most hard-working business owners and entrepreneurs don’t live that life. Because they're too busy serving the needs of their customers and clients.

But I said all that so I could say this...

The post Beach sounds on different grounds appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

There’s no shortage of animal stories all over social media. Video clips of furry creatures doing all sorts of cute and even compassionate-looking things. And when I say “all over social media,” I mean all over. Even a so-called business-focused … Read the rest

The post Animal stories can be cute. But humans are still mute. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I watched a couple of awful videos today. Somebody shared them on social media. More pieces of evidence that clearly show how the drugs don’t work. Well, unless the goal was to create more whacked-out freakazoids. And thieves and thugs. … Read the rest

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Warning. Blatant and obvious bias just ahead. I’m a musician. And I’m gonna share information with you that emphasizes the powerful, therapeutic advantages of music. So, you might feel yourself being drawn toward buying some of my music. And I … Read the rest

The post Obvious bias anytime you hear “try us.” appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

The first century Christians were committed to one another. Christians today? Not so much. Sure, there are small cliques. But, as a whole, it’s a divided faith. And splintered, sometimes, by just the meaning of a single verse. Or even … Read the rest

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Ever wonder why God made everything the way He did? If you don’t believe in God, you might as well skip past me and my writing. Because I’m gonna be wondering around creation for just a bit. And you might … Read the rest

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It’s a weird and wicked world. And all the worldly dots are connected. And I arrived at this thought due to following along some of those dots just now. One leap led me to discover what a vitriolic sphere is. … Read the rest

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You ALWAYS have a third choice. Despite what 99% of movies, TV shows, and songs would have you believe, you do. When you’re told you only have two choices, take a little time to think that through. Very often, the … Read the rest

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The history of Play Dough (also known as Play Doh) is interesting. Because it actually started out as a product to help people clean the wallpaper in their homes. Wait. Play Dough cleaned walls? Huh? Yeah, a guy named Cleo … Read the rest

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I’m gonna rant and rave. And, although I can’t speak for him (especially since he’s got other things on his mind besides music, these days) I think Buddy Holly would back me up on this. If you’ve never heard of … Read the rest

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If you’re old enough to remember back to the 60’s, or maybe even 50’s, you know full well that life is short. Right? I mean, how could it already have been this many years since then? If your memory goes … Read the rest

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I love how I can charge up my mobile devices and take them with me and use them for hours without even plugging in. Because it would be awful if I had to take a gas-powered generator with me everywhere. … Read the rest

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Oh yeah. You better believe I’m gettin’ my fair share. And I don’t care how many rich people have to ante up till I get it. Because I’m an American. And I want my piece of the American dream. I … Read the rest

The post My fair share is over there appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

If I’m elected, I’ll do my best to restore whirled peas. And bring hominy to every household. Because, c’mon people. Can’t we all just get along? After all, we’re one race. So, that’s a great starting point. And speaking of … Read the rest

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I worked in a disco. Yep. It’s true. I was a bartender. And I also worked as what they called a “floorwalker.” That was one of the guys who (you guess it) walked around the floor to make sure they … Read the rest

The post Better off dead. Is that what he said? appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

It’s the story of a lilypad, lake, a frog, and a snake. And it shows how what you think about yourself isn’t necessarily what anyone (or everyone) else thinks about you. This lilypad lake story starts out like this: So, … Read the rest

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You can learn to fly. And it won’t cost you lots of money for oodles of hours of training. AND you’ll be able to fly up to the sky much faster than technology can take your text across the globe. … Read the rest

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Dream Town. I remember playing a multi-timbral sound on my fairly new Korg Triton keyboard several years ago. And the ethereal setting immediately set my imagination in motion. It was one of those magical moments songwriters love almost as much … Read the rest

The post Dream town is off the map until you take a nap appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Several years ago I shared an old love song I wrote. It wasn’t for anyone in particular. I guess it was sort of a culmination of feelings and thoughts from different relationships. But I’d be willing to bet this melancholy … Read the rest

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Huey shared the news back in the 80’s. Jennifer Rush wrote about it back in 1984. And Céline Dion repeated Jennifer’s message in 1994. That message was about the power of love. And people evidently were open to the idea. … Read the rest

The post Power of love is a serious thing. It makes angels sing. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

The butterfly effect and chaos theory originated in hopeless minds. There. I said it. And it’s up to you to convince me I’m wrong. Otherwise, I’m right. But just because those minds were hopeless doesn’t mean there’s not an infinite … Read the rest

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It’s so sad that so many people believe you can kill a little boy or girl just because of how they look or where they live. And I mean the very youngest boys and girls. The most innocent boys and … Read the rest

The post Cellular biology was designed for you and me appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Habitual liars just make up stuff as they go along. I think we can all agree on that. Right? But what we might not agree on are the lies. Most everyone who subscribes to my blog, emails, Rhyme and Reason … Read the rest

The post Make up stuff if you’re foolish enough appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

When I led the praise and worship music, at a church in the greater Denver area, I made sure to include old hymns. Because so many of those “old songs” have such meaningful depth. And one of them has remained … Read the rest

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When I was a mere lad, back in the ol’ country (America, pre-lamebrainian era), the only people who had tattoos were some servicemen and hardcore bar rats. And you just didn’t see the average Joe or Jane with that “unspeakable” … Read the rest

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T shirt ideas have consequences. Especially if “people are offended” by what the shirt says. And I mention this because of a video someone shared on a social media channel. The short description, for the video, said, “I automatically assumed … Read the rest

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Do you feel like you live in a mighty strange world. If you believe this world, and all living things, were created instead of manipulated by chance, you probably do. At least I hope so. I do. This is a … Read the rest

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Today, America is a messed up vision. A shadow of its former somewhat shadowy self. Because right and wrong is a concept blurred by propaganda. And good and bad are now in the “eye of the beholder.” So, those who … Read the rest

The post Messed up vision headed for collision appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

My wife became a certified health coach several years ago. And one of the key things her instructor mentioned, that hit home with me, was that self care is the best healthcare. There’s a ton of rhyme and reason to … Read the rest

The post Self care is the best. Don’t be like all the rest. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Favor and grace sound favorable and gracious to me. But maybe I’m just being too literal. And maybe those words aren’t conducive to your ability, or willingness, to sharing information about eternity. And maybe I should clarify why I’m bringing … Read the rest

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This week, back in 1979, I lived and worked in Houston, Texas. My brother and I had established ourselves as one of the more popular music duos. And we had fans we could depend on to come see us as … Read the rest

The post Music duos come and go. Different views can make it so. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Cowboys and ranch hands ain’t the only ones who have to mend some fences once in a while. Regular guys who say the wrong thing (yes, it happens) need a good way to do that with their wives or girlfriends, … Read the rest

The post Mend some fences and come to your senses appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

One hundred and nineteen years ago, today, at approximately 10:35 in the morning, a couple of guys became household names. Well, it didn’t actually happen immediately. But once they did what they did, they were never gonna be forgotten. Because … Read the rest

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Tomorrow is not the time to start something new. Because tomorrow is a concept. Because humans need that concept to help us understand the flowing of time. And even though it helps to include tomorrow in your understanding of time, … Read the rest

The post Start something new. Not tomorrow. That won’t do. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

The most serious issue facing our nation and the world isn’t fiscal. It’s physical. And it isn’t gun control or rock-n-roll. It’s mind control and your very soul. The most serious issue this world faces starts in the heart (which … Read the rest

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You fell for it. And you did what had to be done. “They” said it’s YOUR choice. And you certainly made it. So, after you fall for a choice, like this, what’s left? Well, a glorious life filled with endless … Read the rest

The post After you fall, is that truly all? appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

God made trees. Sure, I’m stating the obvious. But the obvious isn’t so obvious to the oblivious. So, even if you don’t believe the Bible, I have poetic proof of God’s hand in the creation of trees. First, did you … Read the rest

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Today is particularly appropriate to share something I wrote 9 years ago about the gift of life. And I’m not sure who needs to read or hear this. But if it’s you, let me know so we can be glad … Read the rest

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A long, catchy melody line is a thing of beauty. And, for the most part, it’s a thing of the past. Pop music, in almost every genre, tends to seek out a vowel and repeat it over and over these … Read the rest

The post Melody line is a favorite of mine appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

So, grass fed beef, chicken, pork, etc. is better for you. Agreed? Whether you do or not, why would anyone make that claim? And what kind of proof does anyone have that it’s true? Well, there’s a ton of grass … Read the rest

The post Grass fed process and what we can access appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Maybe you already know that Kenny Loggins has a brother named Danny. And if you do, then you probably already know that Kenny wrote “Danny’s Song” for his brother as a gift for the birth of his brother’s son. And … Read the rest

The post In the morning, when I rise and the sun shines in my eyes appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

It would be a bit of a stretch to say I can see very well. At least, without my glasses, it would be a stretch. And even though I’m more vision-challenged now than when I was younger, my eyesight was … Read the rest

The post I can see very well this story I’m gonna tell appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Way, way back in time, Elgielene put some kinetic energy on my wrist. And that’s my poet brain way of saying she bought me a Seiko Kinetic watch. If you’ve never seen one or had one, check ’em out. They’re … Read the rest

The post Kinetic energy on my wrist and how long I will exist appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

The famous northern lights show up at high latitudes around the world. It’s especially to see them near the Arctic Circle, in Alaska, Canada, Greenland, and Norway. But they can also be seen as far south as northern Idaho. One … Read the rest

The post Northern lights are beautiful sights on cold dark nights appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I’m suffering from depression. Right now. Exactly at the moment I’m typing these words. If you’ve followed my posts or podcast episodes, you might think I’d never be one of those people who deals with depression disorders. But here it … Read the rest

The post Depression disorders with no video recorders appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Nikola Tesla was a fascinating character. And he was a great example of how great ideas started out with dreams. Like, have you ever heard how he had a dream to harness the power of Niagara Falls? I’ve been to … Read the rest

The post Great ideas in history illuminate life’s mystery appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Got some health challenges? Or other physical obstacles? How about emotional or relational problems? And let’s not forget your mental well-being. Have you discovered you’re not as young as you used to be? And wouldn’t you like to know why … Read the rest

The post You did it. So just admit it. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I know that you know that words can be deceiving. When I was a kid, we had a rhyme to thwart something somebody might say about us. It went like this: “Sticks and stones might break my bones, but words … Read the rest

The post Words can be deceiving. What are you receiving? appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Norwegian Wood, by the Beatles. Scarborough Fair, by Simon and Garfunkel. We Are The Champions, by Queen. And even She’s Always A Woman, by Billy Joel. Those songs all have something in common. Do you know what it is? Well, … Read the rest

The post 6/8 Time Doesn’t Have To Rhyme appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

They’re everywhere. In almost every household. Certainly in every politician’s office. And in the heads of most every kind of person there is. From young graduates to old tyrants. Big plans. For good. And not so good. And downright evil. … Read the rest

The post Big plans and dreams against darker schemes appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

How about this expression? “The bad apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.” You’ve heard that, right? Hmm, maybe that’s acorn. Or lemon. Doesn’t matter. The point’s the same. But there’s another expression, too. “One bad apple don’t spoil the … Read the rest

The post Bad apple, good fruit. And a great reward to boot. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

It’s a mean world. Every day you see and experience the cold, hard truth in this world. Whether you like it or not. And whether you prefer to think positive or be negative. Doesn’t matter if you’re a glass-is-half-full person … Read the rest

The post New normal is crazy so we can’t be lazy appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

According to search engine “suggestions,” a very popular search term is “Kanye West net worth.” And sadly, for the hip-hop rapper, it’s way less than it was. Poor dude is only worth about $400 million now. But don’t worry. Because … Read the rest

The post Kanye West net worth is blank without new birth appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

It’s not a new cop show. Nope. The Grace and Glory I’m talkin’ about is found in the one story that makes ALL history possible. And this is true whether you believe in the God of the Bible or not. … Read the rest

The post Grace and glory in a singular story appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Real, and true, inalienable rights come from God. And all those so-called “laws” that so-called “lawmakers” make, almost daily? Well, they’re childish gibberish hung from a foolish wish. And they’re subject to subjectivism and/or the whims of a so-called “organic” … Read the rest

The post Rights come from God. And that logic’s not flawed. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

So. You grew up, left your parents’ house, and went out on your own. Great. You’re not a kid anymore. And that’s exactly as it should be. What’s that? You still have to deal with your inner child? Well, here’s … Read the rest

The post Inner child living in your head? Kick him or her out instead. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Ringtones for phones are still a $2.1 billion bidness. According to one website I found that talks about such things. In 2005, ringtones outsold CD’s. Yeah, I know that’s no big deal now because who cares about CD’s anyway? Right? … Read the rest

The post Ringtones for phones in particular zones appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I’ve enjoyed Dr. Seuss books since I was a kid. In fact, I’m sure his rhythmic and whimsical writing inspired many of my writings for kids. And I’ll even admit that in a court of law if needed. But that … Read the rest

The post Dr Seuss was a goose on a caboose appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

From here to Timbuktu. You’ve heard that expression or something like it. Right? Well, I’m not gonna give you a history lesson on where the expression originated or if it’s even a real place. But it DID inspire a toy … Read the rest

The post Timbuktu much fun to do appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Throw away your daytimer (does anybody have one of those anymore?). Toss out your to-do lists, your notes to self, your calendar apps, and your reminders. Because everything has already been painstakingly planned out for you. You just need to … Read the rest

The post God does not lie. Do you and I? appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Imagine, for a moment, that you’ve set up a move in day for your nice, new house. Or apartment. Condo. Doesn’t matter. It’s just about perfect. It has precision appliances, digital climate control, two car garage. And basically all the … Read the rest

The post Move in day starts with “No way!” appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

If it ain’t got a beat, then it just ain’t no treat. Of course, I’m talking about that ever-popular writing style known as sonnet poetry. And man is it ever manly! In fact, that’s the main ingredient to stylish poetry … Read the rest

The post Sonnet poetry most decasyllabicly appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

A social media friend of mine shares some amazing photography. The colors are often so brilliant and high resolution they almost jump off the screen and directly into my brain. Lately (for obvious reasons) many of the pics are focused … Read the rest

The post Nestled in Nature in this nomenclature appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I read another article about brain cell connections to music. Yeah, I’m a nerd when it comes to that kind of information. And I love a quote from that article that said, “Neurons that fire together, wire together.” Of course … Read the rest

The post Brain cell connections that follow directions appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Let’s see. There was one bassist. Three cellists. Three violinists. And one pianist. Yeah, that about covers it. An eight-piece ensemble that started out, in second class, as a three-piece ensemble and a five-piece ensemble. Second class were their accommodations. … Read the rest

The post Second class, but not on this pass appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

95 years ago, today, October 6, a quirky little guy said, “”Wait a minute, wait a minute, you ain’t heard nothing yet.” And the crowd went wild. You probably already know I’m talking about Al Jolson. And you probably already … Read the rest

The post Wait a minute, wait a minute, there’s something new in it. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Just like yours and mine, the unborn baby heart rate is improved with good breathing. At least that’s true if you can believe scientific observations. Sure, it sounds like crazy talk. But scientific observations, based on the obvious observations and … Read the rest

The post Unborn baby heart rate proves Beethoven’s great appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Hey, you know what would be a lotta fun? Let’s talk about the evolution of music. Are you with me? But let’s don’t do it in my boring musician way. Let’s start with a discussion about it I found on … Read the rest

The post Evolution of music, and this will make you sick appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Just about everybody has a bedtime routine. It makes sense. Because humans are creatures of habit. Like brushing your teeth and changing into pajamas. Those activities just become something you do without having to put a lot of thought and … Read the rest

The post Bedtime routine is that time in between appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I’m happy to celebrate when a church moves in the direction of rightly dividing the word of truth. But you almost never see that anymore. In fact, most establishments calling themselves churches move in the opposite direction. Sometimes the move … Read the rest

The post Church moves and a singer reproves appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

It’s unimaginably cool. But you and I actually have the breath of life from God in us. Uh-oh. I’ve already given you the clue that’ll probably make sure you get an A+ on this pop quiz I’ve got for you. … Read the rest

The post Breath of life is the answer to this quiz appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

You’ve been a person your whole life. If you’ve lived a few (or several) decades, hopefully you’re getting pretty good at being a person. Yeah, it’s an ongoing struggle. But somebody’s gotta do it. Right? But let’s begin at the … Read the rest

The post Begin at the beginning and start winning appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Imagine if you could breathe underwater. Just think of the places you could go. How do fish breathe underwater? Well, they actually have a wonderfully designed system of gills that capture the oxygen from the water as it passes through. … Read the rest

The post Fish breathe underwater. But you and I shouldn’t oughter. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Music is an aural expression of life. From babies in the womb to the silver-haired citizens, music is an amazingly comforting language. I’ve shared a lot of information about the health benefits of music and sound. But it doesn’t benefit … Read the rest

The post Aural expression of life and love to help you rise above appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Hypnopompic hallucinations. No, there are no drugs involved. You might have experienced them, even if you’ve never heard of ’em. Because they can occur in that transitional time between sleep and fully waking up. And they don’t have to include … Read the rest

The post Hypnopompic hallucinations inspire foggy revelations appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

10 years ago I wrote some Christmas songs. And one of them became one of my favorites. Yeah, I know. How unabashedly arrogant of me. Right? No, it’s OK to favor your own creative work. And it’s OK to have … Read the rest

The post God of Christmas rules and deniers are just fools appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

What if joy were against the law? Sounds crazy, I know. But play along for just a bit. And let’s pretend that somehow that kind of law was pushed through congress. What would you do? If joy were against the … Read the rest

The post Against the law. Did you see what I saw? appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Bob Dylan said it. So, it must be true right? He talked about how you gotta serve somebody. In fact, in one of his songs, he sang “you’re gonna have to serve somebody” quite a few times. So, he must … Read the rest

The post Gotta serve somebody. Oh the nerve of somebody appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I read a post, from a friend in social media (thanks Allen) about famous last words from some famous atheists. And the despair in their words struck me in such a way I wanted to share some of them with … Read the rest

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Eight years ago, today, I shared Episode 15 of my Podcast. Wow, 15. I’m now up to 739 episodes. (Side note: I’m way behind on recording episodes because my voice has been, shall we say, less than smooth. But the … Read the rest

The post Your understanding doesn’t make a good landing appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

“They” called him the “Chairman of the Board.” How he got the title depends on who you ask. But there’s no denying that Frank Sinatra liked being in charge. And I was never a fan even though he sang a … Read the rest

The post Lost love, the chairman, and something in the air, man appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I spent a lot of my formative years in Texas. So, I still use (and always will use) some of those friendly southern, colloquial expressions in my everyday language. And many of those southern memories are some of my fondest … Read the rest

The post Fluff the pillow, feel the wind blow, sleeping willow appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

It’s 33 miles in a round trip. And I read where it’s apparently America’s only “urban byway.” And that means it’s a scenic byway (on the National Register) closer to an urban area (Denver) than any other anywhere. And since … Read the rest

The post Lariat Loop where the eagles swoop appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

🎶 People get ready. There’s a train a-coming. You don’t need no baggage. You just get on board. All you need is faith to hear the diesels humming. Don’t need no ticket. You just thank the Lord. 🎶 Yeah, those are lyrics to the old Curtis … Read the rest

The post Word power in your brain helps you on the right train appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Yes, God does have a plan. A MasterPlan. But He most definitely does not have a plan for your day. As I’ve said many times…He’s far too brilliant a designer than to create a bunch of humans who can’t do … Read the rest

The post Masterplan, yes. The kind we don’t have to guess. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Just in case you haven’t noticed, the world is full of mean people and bad stuff. Nations are at war…all the time. Political parties are in constant power struggles. Murder is consistently at epidemic levels. And man-made pandemics are all … Read the rest

The post My cup runs over through thorns and through clover appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Everybody’s trying to be nicer than God. Even real estate websites like to show off their “LGBT legal protections.” Which, of course, are bigoted policies. And I oppose any ideology that singles out individuals or groups who hate God and … Read the rest

The post Legal protections lead in the wrong directions appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

They say ignorance is bliss. Who are they? And why do they say that? But never mind all that right now. There’s one way ignorance will be anything but bliss. Because you won’t be able to plead ignorance when you … Read the rest

The post Ignorance is bliss unless it’s anything like this appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Back in 2012, right here on TonyFunderburk dot com, I wrote about the longest daylight day of the year. Summer solstice. And I shared how it makes me ponder time. I also shared how so many people say something like, “Wow, time … Read the rest

The post Time flies by so fast in this world where we’re cast appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Generally speaking, most scientists (and the rest of us, too) believe there’s nothing faster than light. And it’s mighty difficult to imagine that not being true. Because, think about it, when you flip the switch to your kitchen light, it … Read the rest

The post Faster than light to where day becomes night appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Sleep tight. Don’t let the bedbugs bite. Did you ever hear that when you were a kid? Or, for that matter, any other time? As it turns out, that’s not just a sweet, little thing to say to kids that … Read the rest

The post Bedbugs bite, but not in the starlight appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Yesterday I wrote about a nostalgic memory. And I talked about June bugs. If you didn’t catch that post, check it out. But now I want you to think back in your own life. And go as far back in … Read the rest

The post Think back and talk some smack appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Did you ever watch The Waltons? Either when it was a new show or in reruns? Either way, do you remember how the kids would run out the front door and the screen door would smack shut? That’s because those … Read the rest

The post June bugs, watermelon – It’s nostalgia I’m tellin’ appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

As I reached the end of 5th grade, and was about to leave elementary school to attend junior high, I was told I’d be put into “accelerated classes.” My teacher sent me home with a note to my parents that … Read the rest

The post Addition and subtraction make sense with liquefaction appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Yeah, it’s an uncomfortable conversation to have. The one about what’s happening behind closed doors and tall walls. Doors and walls that close behind foolish people going in…and behind damaged people coming out. Some people have spent much of their … Read the rest

The post Uncomfortable conversation with a quickly fading nation appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Paramecia don’t become parakeets. And an amoeba will never be an ambulance driver. Not in a million, trillion years. Because changes like that don’t happen. Not by accident. Not on purpose. And certainly not accidentally on purpose. Accidentally on purpose … Read the rest

The post Accidentally on purpose where bad science can’t usurp us appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Three years ago, around this time of year, I sent a sad and happy song out into the internet. It was in response to a request for me to write a song for a young man battling cancer. A friend … Read the rest

The post Make a wish to abolish and demolish appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I think Huey Lewis and the News sang it best, back in the 80’s, when they sang “I say cool is a rule, but sometimes, bad is bad.” What? You don’t remember that song? Then, move along. Because you’re probably … Read the rest

The post Bad is bad when it’s this sad fad appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I’m reminded of a sound bite from a presidential debate between Ronald Reagan and Jimmy Carter. Carter presented what he thought was a good case against then Governor Reagan’s position on Medicare. And when Carter finished, Reagan started his counterpoint … Read the rest

The post There you go again, not putting the if with then. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

What if you reached your prime, let’s say around 33, and someone told you that you look old? It wouldn’t exactly make you feel great. Even if you’re totally confident in who you are, and in your appearance, you don’t … Read the rest

The post Ancient age appears when clocks miscount the years appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

God? Or environmentalists? Where is your trust? Let’s say God told you something like, “While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, winter and summer, and day and night shall not cease.”Would you believe Him? Or do you put … Read the rest

The post The end of humanity and the definition of insanity appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Ah, yes. Diversity, equity, and unabashed tolerance. That’s what you get when you mix a whole lotta different kinds of people together in one place. Right? And you just better brace yourself for gobs of group hugs, too. Because peace, … Read the rest

The post Murder mayhem and madness beat up on tidings of gladness appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Apparently a lot of people go online to find out what can cause stress. And that makes sense. Because a lot of people (if not most) are stressed out. But I seriously don’t think you need to ask Google or … Read the rest

The post What can cause stress and make life a mess? appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Music and mercy aren’t synonyms. Except that, they kind of are. Well, at least in one way they are. And I have that one example for you. But first, let me share a little story. During my freshman year in … Read the rest

The post Music and mercy there’s no controversy appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

If you were a “climate change” advocate, or some sort of “global warming” proponent, what would be the best way to express your beliefs? Show of hands? OK, Susie. What do you think the answer is? “Um, buy a half … Read the rest

The post Express your beliefs like the super-rich chiefs appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I had my eyes examined (no, not my head) a couple of weeks ago. And this week I got my new glasses. Plus, this is my 2020th post here on TonyFunderburk.com. So, those two things, and a couple of other … Read the rest

The post Hindsight is 20 20 for some but not for plenty appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I watched a well-made movie, starring Robert Duvall, the other night. And he’s a very good actor who can keep you engaged. I wish he’d learn how stupid he sounds as he takes God’s name in vain in just about … Read the rest

The post Relationship is key to a blessed eternity appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

You and I should cling to what is good. Not because it’s some kind of law. But because there’s much benefit to it. Sometimes eternal benefits. But you can’t do it. And I can’t either. We just can’t do it. … Read the rest

The post Cling to what is good. Yes, we certainly should. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

In 2008, I was part of a pro life group in Colorado that actively advocated for the abolition of abortion. And, believe it or not, that’s not the general consensus in the “pro life movement.” Typical pro life organizations have … Read the rest

The post Unborn children have rights to all their days and nights appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Empty the ocean with a spoon? Yeah, that was a thought that rushed into my head one day back in the 1970’s. Because I was thinking about all the people in the world who give up too easily. And, at … Read the rest

The post Empty the ocean was a poetic notion appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I just saw three weak references to time by Christians. And all three of them talked about when time shall be no more. Sadly, those Christians are perpetuating an impossibility. Because there will never be a time when there is … Read the rest

The post Time shall be no more. What do they say that for? appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Something is either right or wrong. And, it goes without saying (but I’m saying it anyway) some of those right or wrong things are more important than others. And some are of great importance. But the foundation of the statement … Read the rest

The post Right or Wrong – the idealogical song appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

It’s fascinating how little snippets of memories can flash into the front of your mind. Sometimes the flash comes out of nowhere. And sometimes it’s because you simply stopped and thought about it. And I recommend an occasional pause to … Read the rest

The post Ponder the past even though it doesn’t last appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I remember singing what we called “old spiritual songs” way, way back when I was in choir in high school. One, that always comes to mind, said “soon ah will be done uh wit da troubles of da world. Goin’ … Read the rest

The post Spiritual songs were sung when I was young appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

A fairly impressive milestone slipped by me this past week. And that’s even though I told myself to not let it slip past me. What was the milestone, you ask? Well, thanks for asking. Right here, on my humble little … Read the rest

The post 2000 songs to listen to and not be tired when you’re through appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Even if you’re not a Christian believer, you should read about Nebuchadnezzar’s dream. Because it’s the kind of story Hollywood movies attempt to tell. But they almost always fail miserably for the same reason King Nebuchadnezzar failed. They stand on … Read the rest

The post Feet of clay walk you away from life today appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

If you’ve been following along with me here at TonyFunderburk.com for a while, you might recall that I spent a year in Nashville. Yeah, the one in Tennessee. Elgielene and I went there, after a couple of years on the … Read the rest

The post Songwriters in the round where some new songs were found appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

246 years ago, this month, some guys with a British accent figured they’d bully some Americans around. But things didn’t go quite according to their plan. Because a knight in shining armor foiled their plans. And, of course, I’m being … Read the rest

The post Knight in shining armor and the bully disarmer appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Back when I was about 12 or 13, in the mezzaluna phase of the twentieth century, my Mom forced me to endure unfathomable torture. She drove me to a quiet hillside, out on the backroads of Eastern Kansas. And she … Read the rest

The post Stick shift, a driving gift that gave a young boy a lift appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Here’s a little something from nineteen ninety nine in nineteen eighty two. “Cuz they say two thousand zero zero party over, Oops out of time – So tonight I’m gonna party like it’s 1999.” Just in case you forgot, or something, I’m … Read the rest

The post Nineteen ninety nine and a band of mine appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Back in the day (as they say) there was a short expression to describe somebody who could run fast. It went like this, “Man, he can really move it.” Do they still say that? I don’t know. But I probably … Read the rest

The post Move it or lose it. It’s up to you to choose it. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Life is full of up’s and down’s. But that’s part of what makes it so interesting. Because it’s not the easy stuff that makes you stronger. It’s the tough stuff. And if you’ve lived longer than a couple of decades, … Read the rest

The post Tough stuff can make you tough enough appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

It’s been a weird April this year. And I’m in a particularly contemplative way as I think about what the past 7 days included. A second drive to Kansas, in the past couple of months. But not for fun. Because … Read the rest

The post Contemplative way on a certain birthday appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

The short speeches were over. The room was put back in order. And the leftovers, sound system, and other ceremonial items were carried out, packed into cars, and driven away. So, all that was left of this celebration of my … Read the rest

The post Spreading the ashes with dampened eyelashes appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Today was the day. Friends and family spent time together, in the little town of Gardner, Kansas, celebrating Mom. She died on February 11 of this year (2021) and left the aches and pains of this world to go live … Read the rest

The post Celebrating Mom with a memorial Psalm appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I was a big fan of the popular duo from the seventies, Loggins and Messina. And when my brother and I started actually getting paid to play music, Loggins and Messina songs were a significant part of our repertoire. They … Read the rest

The post Peace of mind to those left behind appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Hey, you might not know it. But I’m a podcasting host. And the podcast is zooming up on 700 episodes. But, to most of the listening (and non-listening) world, I’m still a ghost. Yeah, I know it’s hard to believe … Read the rest

The post Podcasting host doesn’t wanna be a ghost appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Almost 20 years ago (and it seems like last week) I wrote about the sad state of truth in this world. And what’s even sadder is…my song is even more apropos now. Real Truth is eternal. But in the here … Read the rest

The post Truth is eternal. Put that in your journal. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I’ve mentioned before how I enjoyed superhero comic books when I was a kid. And I mentioned how I didn’t dive into them nearly as much as other guys I knew back then. And I bring it up, now, because … Read the rest

The post Hawk and dove and the perfect love appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Life. Love. And freedom. Hope. Bread. And water. Joy. And a rock-solid promise. Yeah, I’ve definitely got something to sing about. And when I say “sing,” that’s how I cheer. Because, for me, singing is the best form of celebration. … Read the rest

The post Something to sing about in this era of doubt appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

“All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing.” If you’re a principled person, or if you’re someone who knows the difference between good and evil, you’ve probably heard that quote by Edmund Burke. … Read the rest

The post Stand for something right and never lose sight appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Elgielene and I were driving down the highway the other day, and we saw a small herd of longhorn cattle. And we both commented on how healthy they looked. We could tell it was at least partly because they were … Read the rest

The post Greener pastures do exist. How’s that for a twist? appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

“It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” You’ve heard that more than once I bet. And it sure applies to Christian doctrinal differences. Because I see it more and more, with each passing year, how Christians put words … Read the rest

The post What you know that just ain’t so appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

John Lennon, that slightly famous Beatles guy, once said the Beatles were more popular than Jesus. And I actually think he might’ve been taken a little out of context by reporters and fans at the time. Because I’ve checked into … Read the rest

The post Influencers and teens and psychedelic scenes appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Oh, the dreadful misery. The likes of which the world might never see again. And it’s a miracle anything or anyone survived it. Of course, I’m talking about the Dark Ages of the world of art. It was the time … Read the rest

The post Dark ages and writing stages on pages appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

They sure had some silly lyrics in the hits from the 50’s. For the most part it was one innocent song of love after another. Love Is A Many-Splendored Thing – You Make Me Feel So Young – When I … Read the rest

The post Innocent song has been gone so long appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Sometimes people ask me why I spend so much effort writing “Christian stuff” instead of just writing “more popular music.” And the short answer is, because there’s so much of the “popular stuff” that’s anti-God. So, there’s an urgent need … Read the rest

The post Christian stuff is hardly tough enough appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Do you speak Psalms? And how fluent is your Hymns? Or what about Spiritualese? What’s that you say? You don’t speak any of those languages? And you don’t even believe they ARE languages. Well, I guess, technically, they aren’t languages. … Read the rest

The post Speak to me in a melody because it’s neighborly appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

OK, this is a manly post. So, women are only allowed as long as they intend to use the information to help the men in their lives. Are we clear? Good. Let’s proceed… As I was searching for some clothes, … Read the rest

The post Manly dude’s attitudes and platitudes appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Ode to Joy is a musical and spiritual alloy. Even if Ludwig didn’t mean it that way. And of course, I’m talking about Beethoven’s Symphony #9. Or at least a section of it. If you wanna give your brain a … Read the rest

The post Ode to Joy is a mighty fine alloy appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

He said he had a dream where he heard Mexican trumpets. And I guess that’s how they became such a recognizable part of his hit song, “Ring of Fire.” In fact, it went to number 1 on March 25, 1963. … Read the rest

The post Ring of fire goes higher and higher appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Different people don’t tend to get along so well. Have you noticed that? And history books denote sections of time, most often, using wars as markers. And almost all of those wars were between different peoples. Although it could be … Read the rest

The post Issues of society remain the same variety appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Older and wiser. They should go together like sourdough bread and grass fed butter. But they don’t always. Especially in town of Ignoraville, on Mount Wealthscape, in the land of Rebelaphant. Sadly, most of the residents of Rebelephant aren’t older … Read the rest

The post Older and wiser? Or a truth compromiser? appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Yacht rock. Of course, I had no idea I was listening to music from that genre. And that’s mainly because it wasn’t called yacht rock at the time. Plus, to be completely transparent on this matter (as is the odd … Read the rest

The post Yacht rock, Jayhawk, and the bloomin’ hollyhock appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I remember a young lady telling me about The Joshua Tree when I was in Albuquerque, New Mexico back in 1987. I was booked there for two weeks, and she and couple of other friends asked me if I’d heard … Read the rest

The post The Joshua Tree sounds like driftwood to me appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

This comes from back in the days of knights and lords and ladies. Apparently it was customary for a knight to wear the name of a certain lady during a tournament. And it was typically the lady he loved…or would … Read the rest

The post Wear your heart on your sleeve and hate what I believe appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

47 years ago? Can it truly be that long? But you know what they say. Math don’t lie. And the numbers add up to (or subtract to) 47 years. I’m ramblin’ on about it because 1974 was the year, and … Read the rest

The post Miracles song brought this thought along appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Adrenal glands. Oh yeah, now we’re talking about some pretty exciting stuff. And I bet when you got up this morning the first thought you had, after your coffee kicked in, was “Where can I find me some stimulatin’ adrenal … Read the rest

The post Adrenal glands meet a lot of demands appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Did you see that movie “This Is Spinal Tap” about a fictitious rock band in a fictitious rockumentary? If not, no great loss. I never saw the whole movie either. But I saw some funny clips. And one that stands … Read the rest

The post Power amplifier turns the volume up way higher appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I get regular emails from a guy who knows a thing or two about emails. And he often mentions another guy who the FBI describes as the most feared negotiator. So you’d probably want that guy on your team if … Read the rest

The post Negotiation day isn’t a million years away appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

“Blinded by the light. Revved up like a deuce, you know a runner in the night.” I remember listening to Manfred Mann’s Earth Band sing that song way back in the 1970’s. And I didn’t learn, till later, it was … Read the rest

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A few years ago I felt like a man of dust. Because I did some handyman work in addition to my ad writing, copywriting, and website building business. I was getting established in a new city after living in another … Read the rest

The post Man of dust, it’s a matter of trust. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Yesterday was that day. Today is that day. And tomorrow will be that day. And by “that day” I mean the day somebody was talkin’ about when they said they’d do, be, or try something. You’ve said it. I’ve said … Read the rest

The post Someday is gonna happen, so keep your fingers snappin’ appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Ever since the Donald left the white house, some guy named Joe has been there. And he’s doin’ a good job. A mighty good job. So, I just wanted to touch base with you and let in on the latest … Read the rest

The post Some guy named Joe is puttin’ on a good show appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Mountain goats. Awesome animals that live high in the mountains most of the time. Mountain Goats…a stupid band from North Carolina who probably wouldn’t know truth if it zapped through their instruments, traveled up their fingers, and stimulated whatever brain … Read the rest

The post Divisive decisive and delightfully incisive appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Even if you’re not familiar with the world of copywriting, you probably read some every day. Because copywriting is the act of using words to sell. That’s the simple definition. And a guy I’ve been following for over 30 years, … Read the rest

The post Ask yourself these questions by someone’s suggestions appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

“Alright. We ain’t talkin’ no politics or religion around here. See? And I better not catch you playin’ the stool pigeon, or you’ll be wearin’ a pine overcoat. See?” Yeah, those gangsters, from the movies of the 30’s and 40’s … Read the rest

The post No politics or religion makes you a silly pigeon appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Hate is push-button easy these days. And the mask mandate, that somebody named Polis living in the governor’s mansion in Colorado keeps extending, is proof of this. First, here’s why a mask mandate is a form of hate. If you … Read the rest

The post Mask mandate, let’s be straight, is so full of hate appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Which is more important? More essential? And more vital to human endeavors? Peace or liberty? If you chose peace, go sit down in the back of the class and think about what you just did Mr. Man. Or Missy Miss. … Read the rest

The post Peace or liberty, if I can choose just one for me. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

One of my biggest honors was sharing the stage, at a pro-life event in Denver, Colorado, with Alan Keyes. In case you’re not familiar with him, he’s the former ambassador to the UN under former president, Ronald Reagan. Mr. Keyes … Read the rest

The post Biggest honors come differently to some appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Freedom is a right. That should be self-evident (as somebody once wrote). But apparently, for a lot of knuckleheads, that information just can’t make it past the knuckles in those heads. So, they toss freedoms out just like they toss … Read the rest

The post Freedom is a right, but not without a fight appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Horse songs tend to have catchy rhythms. I guess it’s because of the hoofbeats. rimshot Thanks folks. I’ll be here all week. Be sure to tip your bartender and waitresses. Yes, I said waitresses. Don’t git yer stirrups all tangled … Read the rest

The post Horse songs are for all you hop-alongs appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Opinions count. Not all of them, of course. But the ones that are tantamount to truth…those count. And, sadly, there are fewer and fewer of those kinds. Because there’s an assault on truth the likes of which America has never … Read the rest

The post Opinions count when they’re tantamount appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I’m a word nerd. And I’m certain I was born that way. So, you need to just love and understand me. And accept me for the identification I choose for myself. OK, now that I’ve gotten that heated rant off … Read the rest

The post Word of the day and words at play appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

When I was somewhere around 5 years old, I went on a long walk with my Grandmother. And we left her house totally out of sight as we journeyed to the grocery store. In my mind it was easily a … Read the rest

The post Stand up straight on the count of eight. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

It’s true. We Christians have a different perspective on life. So, we think different thoughts from the rest of the world. And that’s because we know ideas can have eternal consequences. So, we should think a different way. With a … Read the rest

The post Think different thoughts. Don’t be robots. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Even in this ridiculous and weird time in history, dreams come true. Not all. But enough of them that it still counts when somebody says “if you work hard, you can still achieve your dreams.” But right now you might … Read the rest

The post Dreams come true. At least they sometimes do. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I remember studying America’s founding documents when I was in school way back in the twentieth century. And I remember something called the “Bill of Rights.” It must’ve been a big deal. Because teachers and politicians always talked about the … Read the rest

The post Freedom to assemble – not to tremble appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Check out this list of synonyms. Publicity, advertising, promotion, marketing, puff, puffery, propaganda, exposure; boost, push, fanfare, buildup; informal plug, plugging, razzmatazz, and ballyhoo. And I shared them with you because they’re all synonymous with moronic politicians. Because they want you … Read the rest

The post Believe the hype if you’re the gullible type appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

This Magic Moment, a song written by Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman, was a big hit for Ben E. King and the Drifters back in 1960. And I’ll bet they had no idea they actually created one of the billions … Read the rest

The post Micro moments here and now can change your woes to wow appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I enjoy watching Ray Comfort, from Living Waters, talk to people he meets “on the street.” Because he has an easy-going way of disarming them in order to share God’s love. He lives in California. But he’s originally from Australia. … Read the rest

The post Living Waters flow where they’re allowed to go appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

31 years ago, today, a beautiful, petite, slender, tan woman said one word that changed my life. Of course, I’m sure I don’t have to tell you what that word was. But I’ll share it anyway. The word was “What?!” … Read the rest

The post You would not believe how hard it was to achieve. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

We just watched an old Joel McCrea western last week. And that’s for one reason. Because there are no new Joel McCrea westerns. Joel moved on to that big ranch in the sky many moons ago. But that’s not actually … Read the rest

The post Awesome America sigh in a western lullaby appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

It was a cold day in January. In rural Oklahoma. FDR was in the first year of his second term as president of the U.S. And a second daughter was born to a young couple named Lee and Syona. … Read the rest

The post Cold day today. Up, up, and away. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

The good ol’ American can do attitude. Remember that? If you’re only a couple of decades old (or less), you might not. But it’s what truly made America a force to be reckoned with. Because when you have a nation … Read the rest

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At some point of the year in 1990 or 91, my wife and I lived in Tulsa Time for a couple of weeks. Tulsa, Oklahoma to be exact. And that’s because I was booked in a snazzy hotel to provide … Read the rest

The post Tulsa time and a song to dance to all night long appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I’m able to change my mind. And you read that and probably think something like, “Wow. That’s so deep, Tony.” But it IS deep. Because it means I’m not a robot. There’s no one pushing buttons making me do what … Read the rest

The post Able to change and rearrange isn’t strange appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

“I don’t wanna deal with reality. In fact, I hate reality.” I was just talking with a good friend who said a person he knows told him that. And my wife said a coworker told her something like that, too. … Read the rest

The post Deal with reality in this present duality appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I remember, even way back in the 20th century when I was a kid, how pastors could get fire-and-brimstone fired up. And how they’d want some feedback. So, a lot of them would say something with particular emphasis and ask, … Read the rest

The post Can I get an Amen? Yes, again and again. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I’ve talked about how my parents split up when I was around 4. And I’ve talked about how my younger brother and I lived mainly with my grandparents (on Dad’s side) for a couple of years after that. But I’ve … Read the rest

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Just think if you lived back in the days of gladiators. And imagine if you had to go out and fight for your king with an invisible suit of armor. Sure, it would be much lighter. So, it would be … Read the rest

The post Stand up for right and be a light appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Time flies. And time drags. And yet it’s all the same 24 hours every day. But circumstances are what can make those hours feel like they last forever. Or pass by in the blink of an eye. And events can … Read the rest

The post Remember the day of sailing away appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Almost 6 years ago I shared a story about a bad experience I had in Erie, Pennsylvania. (Check out that story) And I talked about how it made me mad and how that inspired a song, Never Neverland. One of … Read the rest

The post Live and let live is not so determinative appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Laughter and love. Could there be anything better than those two things? And that’s a rhetorical question of course. Because they both are awesome examples of human connection to God. But before you click away, or stop reading and listening … Read the rest

The post Laughter and love is what I’m thinking of appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Kiss babies. Shake hands. And eat at mom and pop restaurants that exude Americana. OK, what do those statements make you think of? Bam! That’s right. Politicians. And let’s not leave out all that talk they do about division and … Read the rest

The post Division and unity talk with impunity appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I’m sure you’ve noticed, if you’ve lived more than a couple of decades, how we continue to suffer through a climate crisis. Every year it’s the same thing. You can’t depend on seasons because they consistently (oops, should I say … Read the rest

The post Climate crisis is so much sneakier than Isis appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Anyone who knows me knows I’ve always been a big admirer of women. I appreciate ’em so much, in fact, that I married one 31 years ago. But, as usual, women are at the heart of a Yuge problem. And … Read the rest

The post Gender inclusive is so gender intrusive appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Some time, around the middle decades of the twentieth century, a 16 year old girl discovered she was pregnant. Of course, she knew how it happened. And this was at a time in American history when young people were supposed … Read the rest

The post Do the right thing and stay on the upswing appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Infinitely creative. That’s the way you might imagine somebody who could conjure up designs for the universe and everything in it. And if you found out that the same person could get it all built in only six days, you … Read the rest

The post Infinitely creative with love that’s qualitative appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

An old friend of mine, from back in my days as a full time musician in Texas, loved REO Speedwagon. And I think she even got to meet them one time. I wasn’t a fan. But there’s no denying they … Read the rest

The post Successful band, planes that land. I promise you will understand. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

If you’ve spent even a little bit of time online, you’ve probably noticed a common “item” in the world of internet marketing. And you might have taken advantage of it more than once. I have. In fact, I have one … Read the rest

The post Free offer and gift that provides the most lift appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I was a fan of Chicago (the band, not the city) when I was in high school. And for years after. I’m not sure what they’ve done in recent years. But some of that early stuff with horns, strings, double … Read the rest

The post Search engines serve you lies that tend to jeopardize appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

OK, kids. Gather ’round. Because I’m gonna tell you a story that’s true, even though it sounds like a fairy tale. “Once upon a time, when I was a kid, my whole family would sit down in the same room … Read the rest

The post Away we go because of who we know appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

“Hey! Shut up! Don’t lie to me. You think I’m blind. But I’ve got eyes to see.” Yeah, a lot of what’s going on in America reminds me of those first couple of lines from Bonnie Raitt’s song “Have a … Read the rest

The post Silence the opposition is a sinful proposition appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Each and every time America goes through an election cycle there’s a bunch of what I call strange change. And it’s rarely, if ever, for the good. But the presidential election of 2020-2021 goes down as one of the strangest. … Read the rest

The post Hold on for the ride ’cause it’s no time to hide appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Social media. That term or description or title…whatever you wanna call it…has become an oxymoron. Because the biggest social media platforms have turned into bloated, antisocial, propaganda propagators. They’ve increased their agendas toward repressing, suppressing, and even shutting down anyone … Read the rest

The post Ironic blessing from all this repressing appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

It’s funny (not ha-ha funny) how people with the worst possible ideas always want everybody else to have open minds. Have you ever noticed that? And cheaters tend to want everybody to get along and “unify” once they get “in … Read the rest

The post Open minds of the opposite kinds appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

You and I live in an atmosphere full of germs. And it’s been that way on good ol’ planet Earth for your whole life. Doesn’t matter how old you are. Bacteria, viruses, and all their little germ cousins are everywhere. … Read the rest

The post Mask of death so hold your breath appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

A woman I know (a friend of mine) has a 17 year old son who just experienced the suicide of one of his best friends. And her son had already shown bouts of depression and anxiety with his life. Keep … Read the rest

The post Depression and anxiety of the troubled youth variety appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

“God is in control.” And “God’s got this.” Or how about, “Just gotta remember it’s all part of God’s plan, so wait for His perfect timing.” If you’ve been saying any of those things…or anything that sounds like them, then … Read the rest

The post Stop saying that in every place you chat appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Yeah, I’m gonna have a good day. And I don’t care who tries to stop me. Because it beats the tar, dust, and heck out of the alternative. And I’m gonna have a good day tomorrow, too. Because I want … Read the rest

The post Gonna have a good day no matter what they say appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

It’s pretty amazing what technology can help you do these days. For example, I’m using my iPhone as my computer to write this. And I’m typing on a small bluetooth keyboard that feels almost as good as the keyboard on … Read the rest

The post Mobile office and blue skies put a sparkle in my eyes appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

The age of the Earth increases all the time. And you’re probably thinking, “Duh. Doesn’t the age of everything, Tony?” But I’m not talking about how Earth is another year older every year. No, I’m talking about how some so-called … Read the rest

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You’ve heard this expression: The only thing that stays the same is change. Right? Well, it’s the only thing because there are two things that stay the same. Continuity and change. Wait! How can that be? Two things stay the … Read the rest

The post Continuity and change as the numbers rearrange appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Well, here it is. The last day of 2020. And it has been one of the strangest, and certainly the stupidest year in my life. And that’s saying something, considering the decades I’ve accumulated. I wish I could say it … Read the rest

The post Last day of a year that manipulated new fear appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Dr. Rockrazer, an archaeologist from the twentieth century was excited. And, for him, that was completely out of character. Because most of his contemporaries and fellow workers in the dirt found him to be quite dry, if you’ll pardon the … Read the rest

The post Man made objects are found in odd places underground appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

In 1989, I had been back in Colorado for about a year. And I was in my little apartment, B17 (yeah, like the old Olivia Newton-John song), listening to the cool variety of music on FM station, KBCO. Because they … Read the rest

The post Feed me, open my eyes. Feed me, conquer the lies. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Homo sapiens. The pinnacle of design. And incredibly, almost incomprehensibly complex. But even the fittest, most sophisticated models break down. And that’s in spite of all the mechanisms installed to help them function at optimum levels. If you’re a homo … Read the rest

The post Homo Sapiens designed with failsafe backups in mind appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

In the early eighties I shared a townhome, in Houston, Texas, with my buddy, Jack. And it was a nice, secluded spot on the West side of the city suburbs. Jack worked days, and I worked nights. So, we typically … Read the rest

The post Turn up the volume, no hiss, you gotta listen to this appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

In 1982 I played a couple of times, for about a month each time, at a once famous barbecue restaurant in Atlanta, Georgia. It was just me and my Helpinstill Roadmaster piano, my microphone, and a small sound system. And … Read the rest

The post Maneater played while the room swayed in this escapade appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I just read an article on Don Gibson, a songwriter from the 50’s and 60’s. And it said he sat down one hot, summer day, in 1958, and wrote two songs. “Oh Lonesome Me” and “I Can’t Stop Loving You.” … Read the rest

The post Love songs and time – how they pass is sublime appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

In 1981 I joined a popular trio, in Atlanta, Georgia. They added me as their drummer, and all four of us sang. So, we had some nice 4 part harmonies. And I remember how their fans enjoyed our rendition of … Read the rest

The post Leader of the Band singing in the promised land appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Have you ever noticed how easy it is to be selfish? And how difficult it is to be merciful, kind, patient, and humble? And it all starts when you’re a little kid. Don’t believe me? Then, I’d say you either … Read the rest

The post Put on love and let peace live inside you and increase appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

When I was a kid, there was a saying…you might even call it sort of a motto. Cheaters Never Win and Winners Never Cheat. And if you got caught cheating, whether it was in sports, academics, or even snagging somebody’s … Read the rest

The post Cheaters never win – Give that thought a spin appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

You don’t need radiometric dating to discover the first rock-n-roll song to top the Billboard charts was written by a guy from the 1800’s. But you DO need to know how that’s even possible. And I’m here to share a … Read the rest

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Journey with me, back to a time when masks weren’t required to…well…just about anything. Except maybe to rob a bank of convenience store. Back to a time when music and fire fused together for a hit song. And I didn’t … Read the rest

The post Music and fire and a love amplifier appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Did you see the Star Trek movie, Wrath of Khan? It was about how Kirk and the crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise had to battle their arch enemy, Khan. Because he planned on using the so-called “life-generating Genesis Device” as … Read the rest

The post Wrath of Khan is merely a yawn appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Answers and insights. Those were the promises of search technology in the age of information. And the promises have been kept. But, at the same time, corruption crept in. Just like it always has in the endeavors of mankind. … Read the rest

The post Answers and insights and freedom in our sights appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Dobie Gray sang “Drift Away.” And it was a big hit for him back in 1973. I remember I liked the song, a lot, from the very first time I heard it. And I think it was Conway Twitty who … Read the rest

The post Drift away or stay forever and a day appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Well, it’s December 2020. And it’s the best month of the year to end 2020 with. And not just because it’s both national egg nog month AND national impaired driving prevention month. Even that alone would make it super duper unique. … Read the rest

The post December, remember, is for life’s glowing ember appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I read a headline, somewhere online today, that said Wikipedia has become another leftist so-called “source of information.” What?! I’m totally aghast. And in mind-blown shock. Not. And then, as fate, destiny, and kismet would have it, I saw a … Read the rest

The post Salt and light trumps might makes right appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

OK. I’m gonna give you the keys to self-empowerment today. And they’re found in these four words. Forgive everyone for everything. Do that, and you’ll be a god. But… Forgive everyone for everything and you won’t be like God. Because, … Read the rest

The post Forgive everyone for everything and you will offend the King appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I’ve always believed it’s a good idea to be nice to nurses. And doctors and other medical practitioners. Because they have to see and deal with a lot of the ugly side of life. And death. But especially be … Read the rest

The post Be nice to nurses or find out what worse is appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Liberty and justice for all. Remember those words? Yeah, they seem vaguely familiar. Oh yeah, I remember now. Aren’t they the last words in the American Pledge of Allegiance. But who is this “ALL” they’re talking about? Liberty and … Read the rest

The post Liberty and justice – not simply for just us appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

My eloquence is subdued, tainted, and watered down by the second law of thermodynamics and a public school education. But I take heart in knowing that so is yours. Just kidding (a bit). But it’s true that we’re generally all … Read the rest

The post Give me liberty here in this land I hold dear appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

For some, the name Paul Revere might conjure up a band from back in the 60’s and 70’s. But it should bring to mind a great American and his famous “midnight ride.” Paul Revere’s famous ride started at 10 … Read the rest

The post Paul Revere made a ride to help some guys be safe and hide appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

They might not be household names you’ve ever heard. But if you’ve lived more than a couple of decades, you’ve probably heard them. And is it just me, or do those old Motown songs still make you wanna dance, too? … Read the rest

The post Is it just me or do you hear a symphony? appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Today marks the 157th anniversary of a speech President Lincoln gave. So, I’m gonna share that whole Gettysburg Address with you with only a couple of comments. Gettsysburg Address was short. And Lincoln was tall. Ok. So much for … Read the rest

The post Gettysburg Address did not assure success appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Just because it’s already been done doesn’t mean you can’t or shouldn’t do it. And maybe you could even do it better. “It” isn’t the same thing for everybody. But “it”, for me, is music. So, I love to hear … Read the rest

The post Already been done because it’s under the sun appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Little kids can be so cruel. Makes you wonder where they get it. Right? And it’s always been that way. In fact, I remember, waaayyy back in the 20th century, when I was but a wee lad, kids would taunt … Read the rest

The post Crybaby crybaby and I don’t even mean maybe appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

When I was a full time road musician, I had to include country music in my repertoire so I could get more bookings. And I’ve never made it a secret that country music isn’t my favorite. But there are classics … Read the rest

The post Country music is OK if it’s sung a certain way appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Georgia seems to be on a lot of people’s minds right now. And by coincidence and chance, the song “Georgia On My Mind” (sung by the incomparable Ray Charles) went to number 1 on the charts on this day (November … Read the rest

The post Coincidence and chance happen coincidentally by chance appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I just read a funny and coincidental story about a band named Johnny and the Moondogs. And I know you’ll get a kick out of this when I share the whole thing. Because it’ll give you some ammo for making … Read the rest

The post Johnny and the Moondogs faded into night fogs appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Happy Friday the 13th. And it’s another lucky day (in a long line of lucky days) for me. Because I get to just sit back, watch all the amazing sporting events on TV, drink lots of beer, and toast the … Read the rest

The post Friday the 13th superstition goes against my intuition appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I remember a line from a movie, but I don’t remember which movie, that applies to current events. And if you remember which movie this came from, let me know, and I’ll be sure to share that update and give … Read the rest

The post Carry on and on because hope isn’t gone appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

How can you decide to end the life of an entirely innocent human being and call that a pro choice? Because that’s not even a good amateur choice. And regardless of what any laws or policies or statutes say, it’s … Read the rest

The post Pro choice with a still small voice appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Way, way back in the twentieth century, I attended college in the rural countryside of Kansas. And have you ever watched the episode of The Waltons where John boy finally got to go to college? Well, watching him is practically … Read the rest

The post Higher learning and intellects burning appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

During this past week I read lost of news stories and social media posts about the way our American presidential election has progressed. Or should I say regressed? And it struck me how many people, on both sides, were surprised … Read the rest

The post You should have known what history has shown appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Life sure is full of weird and wonderful stuff. And I mean stuff you’d probably never make up on your own. At least, not if you don’t let your mind wander off to the dark side all the time. Like … Read the rest

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You could say it came to me in a dream. Because I woke up with this brilliant thought in my head. And before I could turn over and go back to sleep it formed into a brilliant strategy. And then … Read the rest

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Anyone who didn’t see this coming hasn’t been paying attention over the last several decades. And you know what I’m talkin’ about. Yeah, the price increases on sparkling water at 7 Eleven. How much does it cost to put some … Read the rest

The post Author of confusion and the widespread delusion appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

There’s a fast-growing cancer just under the surface of this world. It used to be held in check by a country known as the land of the free and the home of the brave. But the cancer is spreading like … Read the rest

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Hey ladies and gents. Kids of all ages. It’s time to play Beat The Clock and make your mark for all time. And this is the game where the stakes are high, the prizes are free, and losers never get … Read the rest

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I got a real nice note, in the mail, from my cousin, Becky. She lives in Texas. And she was here in Colorado, with her family, a couple of months ago. But we didn’t get together because she thought I … Read the rest

The post Different perspective got me feeling reflective appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Did you see the movie “Ghost”with Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore? The silly plot to the movie was that Patrick’s character was murdered but he didn’t immediately leave the planet. And he didn’t go to Heaven or hell. Because, according … Read the rest

The post Shadow of things to come not so good for some appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Some say the way you write says a lot about you. And I don’t mean the words you choose. I’m talking about the way you push your pen. I recently read an article that said if you write with an … Read the rest

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OK, I’ll admit it. I’m human. And at least a part of me doesn’t like to be told I’m wrong. Sure, I’m the only person in the world who feels this way. Yeah, right. But the truth is…Truth needs to … Read the rest

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There’s a reason food tastes better when it’s seasoned with salt. Because salt is tasty. And it’s the most versatile seasoning on the planet. And it doesn’t hurt that it’s essential to your health. Wow, is anybody else getting a … Read the rest

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Let’s jump into my virtual time machine and zoom back to the third quarter of the twentieth century. As the years zoom past the concave, heat resistant time machine windows, notice the fashion and hairstyle changes. And the cars starting … Read the rest

The post Sing a Psalm in high school even if it’s not cool appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I remember, when I graduated high school, how quickly the “real world” loomed on the horizon. You know what I’m talking about. Figuring out what to do so the parents don’t have to support you anymore. And, for me, college … Read the rest

The post Qualified for the job instead of just another poor slob appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Some of my wacky friends (and in this case, wacky is a term of endearment) are on that keto diet thing. And it’s been around long enough I’m sure you know it’s a low-carb, high-fat and high-protein diet. And that’s … Read the rest

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Once upon a time, many years ago, a little boy, named Adolph, dreamed of one day becoming a great leader. And then, one day, he actually DID become a leader. But instead of leading his people with truth and love, … Read the rest

The post Lies and deceit are no longer discreet appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

If you’re a fan of (or when you were a kid you were a fan of) superhero comic books, you’re familiar with the ubiquitous dialogue bubble. And it’s also known as a speech bubble, speech balloon, dialogue balloon, and even … Read the rest

The post Dialogue bubble in a whole lotta trouble appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

OK, you might as well know up front. I’m gonna preach a little bit here. But I’m gonna go easy on you (sort of) and connect it to music. And the subject for the day is about your new man … Read the rest

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I was recently did another podcast interview with a young guy named Pablo Acosta. His fairly new show is called Benchin in the Kitchen. And I confess I don’t know what that means. But I picture resistance training with a … Read the rest

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I hope you’re not rockin the boat today. Because the world has enough troublemakers without you chimin’ in. And if you don’t know what I’m talkin’ about, then you probably shouldn’t even be reading this. Because you just won’t understand. … Read the rest

The post Rockin the boat and hittin the note appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

It would be funny if it wasn’t so sad. Typically I don’t watch events such as the confirmation of a so-called “supreme court justice nominee.” And I haven’t actually watched the sequence of events in Amy Barrett’s hearings either. Because … Read the rest

The post Right and wrong – yes, they’ve been different all along appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Who has never felt the burning need to be vindicated. And for a little more explanation, check out these synonyms for that word. Acquitted. Absolved. Exonerated. Liberated. And the dictionary says an informal definition is “let off the hook.” Did you ever … Read the rest

The post Vindicated, liberated, you can be exonerated appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

R.A.D.S. Last week that acronym came up in my life. And if you’ve dealt with it, you know what a nuisance (at best) it can be. The letters stand for “Reactive Airways Disease Syndrome.” But regardless of what you call … Read the rest

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Comic books were a really big deal to a lot of other guys I knew when I was a kid. And I remember going to a couple of my friends’ houses and being amazed at how many boxes of comic … Read the rest

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Sense of smell helps me remember so well

The post Sense of smell as I remember so well appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Duct tape. Concrete patch kit. Bandaid. What do those three things have in common? Each one is a temporary fix. And they’re awesome for doing what they were designed to do. But when you use them, you know (at least … Read the rest

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Since I’m more known for composing (music), it might seem a little weird for me to talk about decomposing. But here I am talking about it. And I’m guessing that you might already be aware of how your DNA starts … Read the rest

The post Old DNA is an issue. Someone hand me a soft tissue. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Think you’re having a bad day? Or week? Or month? Well, how would you like to set a record while the world is watching? But then you go out a few days later and lose, big time, while the world … Read the rest

The post Set a record, increase fame, then go out and lose the game appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Steve Jobs certainly had an interesting life. And a productive one. I don’t think you could find many who would disagree with that. After all, he had quite an impact on how we use technology now. In fact, I know … Read the rest

The post Steve Jobs passed away on this October day appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

It was only 22 inches around. And it only weighed 184 pounds. But it might as well have been a lead weight the size of Pluto. Because the news and reports of it fell on America like a lead weight. … Read the rest

The post Sputnik was the first in space, but we still won the race appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Denmark, by most standards these days, is a left-leaning country and government. At least if news articles I’ve read can be trusted. So, it might come as a surprise to you how this little Nordic country stood up for the … Read the rest

The post Nordic country bravery saves some from awful slavery appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Well, it’s October 2, 2020. And I can hardly believe it’s already been a day since I wrote about how it’s hard to believe it’s already October. Uh-oh, I’m spinning in circles of numbers. Somebody stop me before I fall … Read the rest

The post October 2 is still the day they wrote the bill appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

As I was doing an early morning Google search, I noticed something interesting in the “suggestions” dropdown. My search started with the letter O. And one of the suggestions was “opinions on debate.” So, of course, my first thought was, … Read the rest

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I’ve shared the story of my humble beginnings, in the spotlight, before. And you should go read that. It’s hilarious. My glamorous debut at Dinkledorf’s Deli in Kansas City. But one detail I left out in that recollection was how … Read the rest

The post Mac Davis did this thing I thought was worth repeating appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I remember, from back in 1983, a catchy song by a new wave band, The Fixx. And it popped into my head as I started putting my thoughts together for this article. “One Thing Leads To Another.” If you’re old … Read the rest

The post Music and heart rate – I’m talkin’ to you mate appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I can sing a new song any time I feel like it. And I mean a song nobody’s ever heard before. Because I can write that new song. And I know it won’t be music set in place since before … Read the rest

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I’ve been doing this series of posts based on reading the Psalms. And in case you don’t know, Psalms is one of the sections of the Old Testament in the Bible. I’m up to Psalm 25. And when King David … Read the rest

The post The sins of my youth and mercy and truth appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I woke up in the middle of the night, as usual. And while I was still halfway between a dream and awake I heard my own lyrics inside my head. But not just lyrics I’ve already written. No, I also … Read the rest

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“Why do you write so much about love, Tony? It’s not exactly a manly topic.” Yeah, I’ve been asked that. And when I hear a question like that, I immediately think, “Hmm…sounds like somebody who hasn’t read the Bible.” Because … Read the rest

The post Manliest man and his love plan – for all you naysayers appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Back in my early teens I started my lifelong love affair with drums and percussion. And I remember getting a cool, metal flake blue, snare drum for Christmas. It came with instructions on how to do paradiddles, flams, rolls, and … Read the rest

The post Drums and percussion and a rockin discussion appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I just watched an interesting video about social media anxiety. And the guy shared some disturbing statistics about how toxic social media can be. But, of course, none of his information matters to you and me. Right? Wrong. Social … Read the rest

The post Social media anxiety is a whole nother variety appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

When I first began to chart a course around a piano keyboard, there was a particular singer songwriter I listened to every spare minute I had. And it sort of started with a high school graduation gift…an album. And that … Read the rest

The post Americana music and a most unlikely English band appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Stay tuned, Get my Rhyme & Reason Podcast delivered (free) right to your player. My books are also on Amazon.com or Apple Books Grab yourself a cool tee Or how about some music for kids

The post Technology changes and life rearranges appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Everyone has a right to life. Seems simple enough. And most people walking around probably appreciate getting to exercise that right. Even if they don’t realize it. And most don’t. In fact, most people are completely clueless when it comes … Read the rest

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Transpire. I like that word. Because it feels like it has more depth and meaning than the word, “happen.” And, after all, if it “feels” right, it must BE right. Right? So, that’s part of why I chose the word … Read the rest

The post A thousand fires but life still transpires appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Woke up after only one hour of sleep last night. And I quietly dragged myself out to the living room where I was greeted, with glee, by Sleepy Man. One of the most dastardly, sinister, and passive aggressive villains you’ll … Read the rest

The post Sleepy Man, what’s your plan? You’re an evil Peter Pan. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

During my “dating days” (way back in the 20th century) I probably dated two or three girls who were “into meditation.” And I’m talking about the actual sit-down, pose with palms on the knees and pointed upwards kind of meditating. … Read the rest

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Imagine this for a little bit. All your life you’ve had a great relationship with your dad. And I know that’s a hard pillow to swallow for most people these days. But that’s why I said “imagine this.” Ok, you … Read the rest

The post Big trouble on the double. And they’re gonna burst your bubble. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Close your eyes and picture this scene. A long, lush, green meadow gently winds and flows down through a quiet valley. And a herd of sheep, with coats of wool from pure white to chocolate brown, grazing in juicy grass … Read the rest

The post Shadow of death and losing your breath appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

We try our best to capture life and make time stand still. And we never succeed. No one has ever succeeded. One of the few things the Rolling Stones got right: “Time waits for no one. And it won’t wait … Read the rest

The post Capture life in tiny frames. Remember faces and maybe names. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

When you hear or read about the issues of the day, you see a pattern. And it’s nothing new, by the way. Even though we so-called “modern” humans think we’re more enlightened and evolved than our ancestors, it’s all a … Read the rest

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When I was about 4 years old, my parents split up. And my younger brother and I lived with our Grandparents for a while. And one thing I remember, fondly, about my Grandmother was how she sang hymns while she … Read the rest

The post Joy in the Lord has a common chord appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

As I started typing, at 3:30 this morning, I wasn’t sure what I would say. It was another physically challenging night. But I know how writing almost always revives my brain and keeps me going. So, I opened the computer, … Read the rest

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Let me tell you about Old Fourlegs, the fish. I know that sounds weird from the git-go. But I think you’ll get a kick out of it. Because it’s one of the rarest of fish tales. It’s true. Just … Read the rest

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Before I say anything else right now, I want you to know I don’t deny miracles exist. But there’s a long list of things people mistakenly claim as miracles. And I’m talking especially about Christian people. Examples of things that … Read the rest

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Before I dive in, let me assure you, I’m no expert on the subject of makeup. And I’ve never played a makeup artist on TV. So, please understand what I’m about to share with you includes observations and conclusions. That … Read the rest

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Back when I was knee-high to a grasshopper (a term used to describe little kids) I went to Sunday school before the “grownup”church services. And I remember enjoying it. (“Gasp! Did he say he enjoyed it?”) Oh yeah. And not … Read the rest

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Who doesn’t like to break stuff for fun? C’mon, admit it. And if you could make a six figure income just for breaking stuff, wouldn’t you have the perfect job? But who wants a job you gotta show up for … Read the rest

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It’s the last day of August, in case you hadn’t noticed. And when I went outside, early this morning, there was a delicate, cool wind blowing. So, I checked my weather app, and it was 45 degrees. Considerably different than … Read the rest

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Put on your Sunday best I’m not sure if other parts of the country used that expression. But I grew up mostly in the South. First, as a toddler and juvenile in Oklahoma. And then, from the third grade to … Read the rest

The post Sunday best was how we dressed appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Gotta be careful singing in prison Because singing in prison could cause a jailbreak. What’s that? You think that sounds PREposterous? And you think I’m just gonna make up a story just to get some attention. Well, have I got … Read the rest

The post Singing in prison and some souls are risen appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

I’ve got a melody in my heart Back in 1977, on one of my trips to the music store (because digital downloads weren’t invented yet) I picked up the brand new cassette from Kenny Loggins. It was his official first … Read the rest

The post The melody in my heart is my spiritual art appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Are your riches uncertain? Short answer…yes. How do I know this? Because all riches are uncertain riches. In other words, you should never put your trust in your money. No matter how much of it you acquire. Because, I guarantee, … Read the rest

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Only twenty seven days left And for those of you not keeping track, I’m talking about twenty seven days of summer. After that comes my favorite season of the year. Autumn. “Gee, Tony. What’s so special about twenty seven … Read the rest

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Wow, have I got a deal for you?! Just imagine the hardest thing you could possibly do. And now imagine having all that hard work done for you. But I bet you’re not thinking what I’m thinking. And you should … Read the rest

The post Work done for you. Get this deal I implore you. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Monday Blues anyone I woke up this morning and the weekend was gone. And I thought it was gonna go on and on and on. But my woman done gave me the terrible news. And now I got a case … Read the rest

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Sunday morning memories I’ve mentioned, before, how much I loved those bacon, eggs, and toast days at my Grandparents house. Especially before we’d get ready for church. And this was back when families still did most things together. So, my … Read the rest

The post Sunday morning memories are reminiscing rhapsodies appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Day and night and truth and light As I’ve been slowly writing my way through the Psalms, I’ve discovered what a close connection I have to King David. It’s uncanny. And it’s much more than just both of us being … Read the rest

The post Day and night the truth and light is a beautiful sight appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

By the light blue sky In the wee hours, those hours when most people are still asleep, sometimes my thoughts toss me phrases. And I think it’s my subconscious watching to see what I’ll do with them. If I’m awake … Read the rest

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Love and Music Picture this. A middle aged woman grabs her husband’s arm and says, “It must be the dopamine that makes me love this dope of mine.” Because dopamine plays such a huge part in the love and music … Read the rest

The post Love and music connection takes you in the right direction appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Do you sing with understanding right now? “Golly gee, Tony. What does that even mean? And why do I need to sing with understanding? What’s that gonna prove?” Uh…it won’t prove anything to most people. But it might prove a … Read the rest

The post Sing with understanding while the fools are still commanding appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

See ya later is truer for data than people Back when I was on the road, full time as a professional musician, I wrote a song called See Ya Later. You can click the link and find out a little … Read the rest

The post See ya lata digital data – Head for the clouds appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Humble and kind doesn’t equal doormat It’s trendy to be assertive and vulgar. And many so-called “leaders in their field” love to express their inner darkness with tattoos, disheveled hairstyles, and profanity. And I’m sure they think it’s “cool” or … Read the rest

The post Humble and kind have been left behind appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Do You Look For Life’s Magic Little Moments Life can be hectic. Sometimes even frantic for hard working people. If that describes you, I know you might tend to forget, ignore, or totally miss those magic little moments all around you. But they … Read the rest

The post Magic Little Moments are like riding in a bumper car appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Music Box Vacuum Cleaner Dancer At the age of 35, a young German guy named Gustave Brachhausen established the Regina Music Box Company in America. And he set up shop in the cultural center of the universe, New Jersey. No…really. … Read the rest

The post Music box vacuum cleaner – No, I’m not a drunk careener appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Can you believe we have a mask debate in America? I bet our ancestors and forefathers would not have imagined we’d ever have a mask debate right here in the land of the free and the home of brave. And … Read the rest

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A place in the sun with hints of wisdom Elgielene and I enjoy watching old black and white movies. Because so many of them are entertaining without vulgarity and profanity. And because a lot of them have either happy endings … Read the rest

The post A Place in the Sun and THE place in the Son appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Disappointment and expectations It’s weird how often disappointment and expectations are connected to each other. And I’m sure I don’t have to tell you (although I’m about to tell you) that it’s because people tend to base decisions on feelings. … Read the rest

The post Disappointment and expectations seem to be real close relations appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Who can sing the immortality song? The Bee Gees wrote a version of it. And they sang background vocals when Celine Dion recorded it back in 1997. Pearl Jam also wrote and recorded their own Immortality song. And plenty of … Read the rest

The post Immortality Song and won’t you sing along appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Do you ever wish you were one of those prophets and kings? Oh yeah, sit back and close your eyes. And imagine you’re one of the prophets and kings from days of old. Ah, the good life. People jump at … Read the rest

The post Prophets and kings and evergreen things appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Who writes songs for attention? Short answer. Me. But before I go any further let me explain how I don’t mean songs JUST for attention. I’m talking about songs with an ulterior motive. And, in my case, that motive included … Read the rest

The post Songs for attention – not just honorable mention appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Maybe you should do something different today There’s a huge reason why the world is in such a mess today. And it’s been in this mess for just about as long as humans have existed. Which is from the first … Read the rest

The post Do something different today and take life another way appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

OK, let’s be positive and assume the worst That sounds like a good plan. Right? “Uh, no, Tony. It sounds negative. Not positive. And why would anybody automatically assume the worst?” Well, I’m glad you asked. Because I’m gonna toss … Read the rest

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Ah yes. If wishes were fishes… If you do a Google search for that phrase “if wishes were fishes”you’ll probably find a lot of different people adding a lot of different endings. Some of them make measly attempts at rhymes … Read the rest

The post If wishes were fishes they’d still be delicious appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Money is the root… So, if money is the root of all evil, why aren’t more people willing to give all theirs away? And I mean ALL of it. Because why would you want even a little possibility of evil … Read the rest

The post Money is the root so give me all your loot appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Relax. It’s gonna be alright. I’m a big fan of the old black and white movies. Especially from the 1940’s and 50’s. And I remember a scene from an Alfred Hitchcock movie called “Strangers on a Train” where a guy … Read the rest

The post Gonna be alright through the long dark night appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

What’s my reason for being? It’s another form of the age old question. “Why am I here?” And I think it’s more than mildly ironic how logic is so coveted in a world filled with feelers. Because if whatever is … Read the rest

The post Your reason for being is a truth that’s worth seeing appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Are you bored to death? I can’t say I’ve never been bored to death. Of course, it’s a figure of speech. So naturally it’s never happened to me. Otherwise you wouldn’t be reading this. Because I wouldn’t be writing it. … Read the rest

The post Bored to death he said under his breath appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

This is better than performance enhancing drugs When you wanna make your workout even better, skip the performance enhancing drugs. Because they can wreak havoc with your body. And why deal with all those negative side effects when you enjoy … Read the rest

The post Performance enhancing drugs or amygdala hugs appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

A praise and worship leader should follow THE Leader Maybe you already know this. But contemporary music, in church, started in the charismatic movement. And now it can be found in just about every kind of modern church in the … Read the rest

The post Praise and worship leader should be a Bible reader appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Day in day out…here we go again Looney Tunes. I don’t have to say any more than that. And baby boomers all over America can immediately see their favorite cartoon characters. One of my Dad’s favorites was Wile E. Coyote … Read the rest

The post Day in day out in a world of doubt appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Music is for the soul Now, this doesn’t apply to stuff trying to pass itself off as music. Like that heavy beat stuff played inside vehicles and rattles the windows of other vehicles and houses on the street. And that … Read the rest

The post Music is for the soul and helps to keep you whole appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

So, things happen for a reason, eh? Why? Seriously. If things happen for a reason, why is that? Why in the world would that always be true? And I ask because I hear or read that sort of nonsense all … Read the rest

The post Things happen for a reason is like letting a disease in appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Are you wishing your life away and you don’t even know it? Maybe it wasn’t today. But maybe it was yesterday. And you got up still feeling sleepy. And before you even finished your first cup of sunshine you said … Read the rest

The post Wishing your life away should stop today appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Ah, it’s a brand new day After all my fun talk about how awesome it is to have a balloon sinuplasty surgery, I figured it’s a good time to change the pace. Because it’s a brand new day. And with … Read the rest

The post Brand new day to chase the blues away appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

So, Tony…was the balloon sinuplasty fun? Oh yeah. If you’re looking for something to do on your next vacation, let me suggest taking a nice balloon sinuplasty ride. Because it’ll be a vacation you’ll never forget. Balloon sinuplasty has … Read the rest

The post Balloon sinuplasty and boy this pain is nasty appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

This is the day Well, I’ve mentioned this on the Rhyme and Reason Podcast. And I’ve talked about it a little, here on the website. And this is the day it happens. When I have steel instruments and a balloon … Read the rest

The post This is the day when the problem goes away appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Monday is here. Did you notice? It seems like, in this day and age, there wouldn’t be as much dread about it. But when I was searching for something this morning, I noticed the phrase, Monday is here, was a … Read the rest

The post Monday is here and there’s nothing to fear appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

It’s a new day So what! Big deal. A new day comes around every twenty-four hours. So, what makes this one any more special than all the others? And why do so many people try to pump you up with … Read the rest

The post A new day to make hay with something to say appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Rhymes without reason in church Have you noticed how many rhymes without reason there are in church songs these day? And I say church songs because so many of them aren’t worship songs. And they don’t even rhyme all that … Read the rest

The post Rhymes without reason consistently squeeze in appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Guess who needs a manly Bible study Men. Guys. And every person who was born a male. I think that covers it. And why do I say men need a manly Bible study? Because most men, at least most of … Read the rest

The post Manly Bible study you should share with a buddy appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

A star is born – no, not that one I believe I’ve seen three out of four versions of the movie, A Star Is Born. I know I’ve seen first one from 1937 starring Janet Gaynor and Fredric March. And … Read the rest

The post A Star is born like a unicorn in the early morn appeared first on Tony Funderburk.

Life got you down? Count your blessings. I’d like to encourage you, today, to count your blessings. But I don’t want you to spend the whole day on it. And you certainly could. Because you have way more than you … Read the rest

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Here’s why running is bad for you. And good. Just read a couple of articles from a couple of different sources on why running is bad for you. Mostly it’s because of things like an improved cardiovascular system, stronger heart, greater … Read the rest

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Life flows like a river Unless you’re a fictitious superhero, you’ll never be able to travel back and forth through time. Because life flows like a river. Always in the direction of the gravitational pull. Time isn’t a fabric to … Read the rest

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Everybody has selfish desires Yeah, it’s a fact. An unflattering fact. But a fact nevertheless. You have selfish desires. And I do, too. But they don’t have to rule over you. Trouble is…most people in the world allow that to … Read the rest

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Have you noticed how bad news travels fast? How does that happen? Short answer, of course, is…people. Because people tend to have itching ears. And dark hearts. And bad news travels fast from hearts to ears and back to hearts. … Read the rest

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Speaking into the air doesn’t work. Here’s a childhood memory to illustrate why speaking into the air is an exercise in futility. And I hope I remember this correctly. But when I was around 6 years old, I remember going … Read the rest

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You’re running out of time I’ve mentioned, before, how my Dad was a runner. And he was a health nut before being a health nut was cool. He bought a juicer over 50 years ago. And I remember being the … Read the rest

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“Why is love so hard?” Wow. I’ve heard that question so many times. In real life. And in movies, tv shows, and talk shows. But most people who ask, why is love so hard, actually don’t have a clue what … Read the rest

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Life makes sense Nuh-uh. Uh-huh. Does not. Does, too. You’re dense. No, you’re dense. Ha! I’m rubber. And you’re glue. Bounces off me. And sticks to you. Oh yeah! Well, you’re stupid to infinity. Too late. That bounces off me … Read the rest

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Time fills the space so there’s no space “But that doesn’t make any sense, Tony. Of course there’s no space if time fills the space. But how can time fill a space?” It’s all so confusing isn’t it? When … Read the rest

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Wanna read a great confidence building Bible verse? Anyone who’s focused on the regular news regurgitation might be feeling a little worse right now. After all, a lot of reports are saying there’s an alarming rise in virus cases. And … Read the rest

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One thing I do… Social media is so anti-social. Because many (if not most) people spending a lot of time there are clueless about how conversation works. Interaction. Exchanges of ideas. So, one thing I do, when I’m on social … Read the rest

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Hey, I’m just kiddin around over hear. Fuggetaboudit. Can you pick up on my Brooklyn accent in that headline? Or is it the Bronx. I can never remember which one of those New Yorkers talks like dat. But I hope … Read the rest

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Restore my soul because I broke it If you’re a Christian (and if you’re not, you should be), you probably already know how trouble is always close at hand. You can’t swing a dead cornstalk (you thought I was gonna … Read the rest

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Pondering brotherly love on the longest day It’s Summer Solstice time. The longest daylight day of the year. And I know you’re probably out frantically buying your last minute Solstice gifts, the Solstice tree, and all your yummy Solstice treats. … Read the rest

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Live up to your own dream Because I can’t live up to your dream for you. And 99.9% of the people who read my articles or listen to my podcast know this. I’d say 100%, but nothing, here on Earth, … Read the rest

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It might’ve been Für Elise or Therese or Elizabeth As I opened up my laptop to write, just now, Für Elise started playing on my Pandora classical channel. And I love that piece of music. Of course, I don’t think … Read the rest

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Some positive words for the day I shared a few sections of positive words for the day on another website I used to have. And this is something from around 15 years ago. And it still applies. But read to … Read the rest

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Your Cliché is as old as dirt It’s ironic how many people claim the moniker of “new age.” Because so much of what they say is just cliché. And worse than that, many of those clichés are almost as old … Read the rest

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Ah, there’s nothing like an uncloudy day And there’s nothing like rainy days and nights to make you appreciate an uncloudy day. Right? Of course, maybe it’s only the dreamers, poets, and songwriters who truly appreciate the ever-changing kaleidoscope floating … Read the rest

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Ain’t it nice when stars collide? Yeah, usually that expression, when stars collide, brings on visions of falling in love. But what about when actual stars crash into each other? It’s all bliss and fun till somebody gets hurt. Right? … Read the rest

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The music and color connection No, it’s not the same thing as the rainbow connection, Kermit. Imagine your brain seeing music and color. Sounds a little odd, but very interesting to me. For the longest time I’ve connected music and … Read the rest

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Fight the good fight Do you fight the good fight? Or do you avoid it altogether? Or worse yet, do you allow yourself to be a punching bag for all those knuckleheads out there fighting the bad fight? And does … Read the rest

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I like the sound of a music heartbeat I’ve shared, a few times here on the website, how music can be good for your brain. And I’ve also talked about how music is good for heart healing. And now I’d … Read the rest

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Freedom from oppression? Uh, no. What do China and Leavenworth federal penitentiary have in common? Answer”most everyone in each place would like to get out. Well, that’s probably true about China. But Leavenworth? Hmm…I’m not so sure the inmates feel the need … Read the rest

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Hey hon, where’d I put my brain computer interface? Apparently there’s a way to connect a computer to your brain and possibly help control your feelings. I know what you’re saying right off. “Where can I get me one of … Read the rest

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Yeah, confidence is key There once was a guy who had everything a human being could want. At least as far what most people could see. He also had a lot of things nobody would want. Including enemies everywhere. But … Read the rest

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Every good boy does fine. Well… Not really. But if you ever studied music and how to remember the notes in a musical staff, you probably know what I’m talking about. Look at musical staff paper. And you’ll see it … Read the rest

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Do music communications have to be complicated? So, this young woman wrote about the differences between a music therapist and a “glorified performer.” That was in the headline, so her bias showed from the very beginning. And there’s nothing wrong … Read the rest

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Is there such a thing as music immunity? It sort of depends on your definition of music immunity. But there appears to be quite a bit of significant research that backs up how beneficial it is to listen to and … Read the rest

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Human connection can be a healthy thing But human connection isn’t always healthy. Especially if and when it takes you away from logic and reason. I’ve been studying the potential healing effects of music, lately. And unfortunately I see too … Read the rest

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Is Vibrational Sound Therapy Good For You? A sister-in-law of mine (I have 6 of them) is dealing with some serious cancer issues right this minute. She’s in a hospital, here in Colorado Springs. And she’s already gone through an … Read the rest

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Have you ever heard symphony number 9? But not just any symphony number 9. I’m talking, of course, about the one by Beethoven. My favorite composer. And this symphony is one of my favorites of his. “But what’s the big … Read the rest

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Freedom or security? That’s the wrong question Lately I’ve been seeing that old freedom or security question and issue popping up. And it still makes me sad for America that so many people think that’s an either/or question. Because the … Read the rest

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Love and logic – like oil and water? OK, here’s the million dollar question. What’s the number one thing love and logic have in common? (cue the Jeopardy music) No, it’s not that they both start with L. I said … Read the rest

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Heavy metals – no, not those long hair guys Cue up Iron Man, movie and song, and let’s rock some heavy metals. Wait. Wait!. Stop the music! No, not heavy metal music, dude. I’m talking about those elements found in … Read the rest

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And now for a little geography history Wait! Don’t leave! I know you might be thinking geography history sounds too boring. But I’m not talking about dried up dead stuff. Well, maybe a little dried up. But not dead. So, … Read the rest

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