Rhymes by Tony Funderburk - hundreds to share: Recent Episodes
Tony Funderburk
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.
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.
The longest bridge in the world spans over 100 miles. Can you imagine driving that far, and it’s all on one bridge. Well, that’s all I’ll do. Because I’m never gonna drive on any bridge that long. Much less this particular one.
Because the longest bridge in the world is in China.And I have no desire to visit China just so I can say I was on the longest bridge in the world. For that matter, I wouldn’t visit parts of America just to say that. But that’s just me. Feel free (as much as anybody can feel free anymore) to go drive on any bridge you like.
According to an article I read, the Danyang–Kunshan Grand Bridge, the name for the longest bridge in the world, is an impressive feat of engineering. And apparently it’s part of the Beijing-Shanghai High-Speed Railway. That article included these interesting facts about the Danyang–Kunshan Grand Bridge. Directly from the article:
-
Length: 164.8 kilometers (102.4 miles) long, making it the longest bridge in the world.
-
Location: Between the cities of Danyang and Kunshan in Jiangsu Province, China.
-
Construction Time: Started in 2006 and completed in 2010. The bridge officially opened in June 2011.
-
Purpose: It was built to support high-speed rail travel, allowing trains to travel at speeds up to 300 km/h (186 mph).
-
The bridge was constructed by a workforce of around 10,000 people. It used 450,000 tons of steel and 2.3 million cubic meters of concrete. The construction involved extensive planning and engineering to ensure stability and safety over various terrains, including rivers, lakes, and rice paddies. Prefabricated sections were used to expedite the building process and ensure structural integrity.
-
Design and Engineering Challenges: Soft ground, water bodies, and varying terrains. Incorporating modern engineering techniques and materials to ensure durability and safety. Ensuring the bridge can withstand natural disasters like earthquakes and typhoons.
-
Economic and Social Impact: The bridge significantly reduced travel time between major cities, boosting economic development and connectivity in the region.
Sounds like quite an accomplishment.And I’m still not going there. Even though, my guess is, to a HUGE degree, most of the cost to build it was paid by Walmart, Costco, and Hobby Lobby customers.
If that includes you, don’t feel too bad. Because good luck trying to find something that’s NOT made in China. Of course, that’s no big deal because their government luvs America. So, what do we have to fear but fear itself?
Anyway…
These kinds of stories, combined with stories about American border invaders, atrocious abortion activists, a despicable criminal justice system that’s just a system, and more, inspire me to encourage you.
And, just in case, because things can go wrong SO fast, I encourage you to share more than a coke and smile with your loved ones. Share more than a dinner and a movie. Share more than a wink and a nod. Matter of fact…
I hope you’ll tell someone you love, today,
Something they will not soon forget,
A little something they can take through life,
A memory. A love vignette. © 2023
And while you’re at it, you and your loved ones should 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 Longest bridge span isn’t part of my plan appeared first on Tony Funderburk - Writer for Kids.
This is something good to share with the kiddos. I talked about this over 10 years ago. But since this kind of nerve health is an ongoing issue, it’s just as relevant as ever.
And here’s what I mean by “this kind of nerve health.”Have you ever heard someone say “you got a lotta nerve?” Usually they don’t mean that in a good way. It’s usually someone thinking you shouldn’t have said or done what you just said or did.
Like maybe you just told a guy his purple mohawk looks goofy. And he says, “Hey, you got a lotta nerve.” Here’s a helpful tip. When you see some dork, who has a purple mohawk, just do like Dionne Warwick sang. Walk on By. Let the dork have his purple mohawk. And act as though you never saw it.
Same thing goes for someone who has one yellow shoe and one pink shoe. Or someone who loves prunes. Let ’em wear their mismatched shoes and eat their strange fruits. Because other people’s mismatched shoes, strange fruit, and weird hair should have NO effect on YOU. And when you get down to it, the world is full of much stranger things.
I know you got a lotta nerve. And you’re bold for the Lord.But, as the saying goes, don’t sweat the small stuff.
You can think whatever you want, about their dorkiness. But keep it to yourself, and don’t say it out loud. You’ll either make ’em mad or make ’em sad. Either way, it’s best to just keep on walkin’ and whistlin’.
The best side effect of taking my advice is your own good nerve health. And besides that, when you have more “regard for good things,” it’ll be more of an insult to dorks than all your verbal criticisms. Plus, you can focus your boldness on self-improvement. Like this:
You Got A Lotta NerveYou got a lotta nerve sayin’ you’re gonna climb that tree,
And run that race,
Or ride that bike,
And camp out in your own teepee.
You got a lotta nerve sayin’ you’re gonna read that book
And learn that math
Or clean your room
And hang your coat on the coat hook.
You got a lotta nerve sayin’ you wanna be your best
And dress real sharp
Or stay real clean
And be happy and not depressed.
You got a lotta nerve sayin’ you wanna do what’s right,
But keep that nerve
And don’t give up
You’re a winner in God’s good light.
© 2013
Just use a little bit of nerve, and 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 Nerve health and wisdom wealth appeared first on Tony Funderburk - Writer for Kids.
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.
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.
Stay tuned,
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.
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.
Stay tuned,
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
Make me send you some complimentary fun stuff. Jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon
Stay tuned,
The post Predict the future but don’t be too sure 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
Stay tuned,
The post Word hash for Joe and those in the know appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
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
Stay tuned,
Make me send you some complimentary fun stuff. Jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon
The post Tomorrow never comes. Sound this message on the drums. 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
Stay tuned,
Tell everybody you know to Jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon
(emails with good stuff for Fa-Ree)
Get my Rhyme & Reason Podcast delivered right to your device. (also Fa-Ree)
Get digital Bible stuff from the same company I do.
The post Tonganoxie in the middle of an urban weather riddle appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
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.
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.
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.
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,
The post Trillion trails of information in your personal constellation appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
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
Stay tuned,
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
The post Heard it all before and don’t wanna hear no more appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
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
Stay tuned,
The post Free speech, and other rights, sinking into darker nights appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
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
OK, why waste time getting 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
Stay tuned,
The post Uncool as me? Is that what you see? 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)
Stay tuned,
Your support means more than you know. And in case you’d like to know how you can…
Buy books and music from me:
- (https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B008R08LUG/allbooks)
- https://www.TonyFunderburk.com/author
- https://www.TonyFunderburk.com/singer-songwriter
Or tell those you care about to jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon: https://www.TonyFunderburk.com OR
Subscribe to the Rhyme and Reason Podcast: https://www.TonyFunderburk.com/rhyme-and-reason-podcast
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…
Buy books and music from me:
- (https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B008R08LUG/allbooks)
- https://www.TonyFunderburk.com/author
- https://www.TonyFunderburk.com/singer-songwriter
Or tell those you care about to jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon: https://www.TonyFunderburk.com OR
Subscribe to the Rhyme and Reason Podcast: https://www.TonyFunderburk.com/rhyme-and-reason-podcast
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
Stay tuned,
The post Color of music there was anything but rare 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 Earth remains through this blistering hot summer.And it’ll remain through this coming cold winter.
So, you can fear what might happen, if you wanna. But I’m just not gonna join you in that whole fear thing. For one, it’s totally counter-productive. And, oh yeah, God says “fear not.” And “worry not.”
A few years ago I shared this about that:
Fact is…when you believe and trust in God, He gives you a spirit of power. And love. And a sound mind. That’s a mind based on reason, sense, or judgment. Full of competence and security. When you feel the opposite of that description, you’ve moved away from, or you’ve forgotten what God says about you.
But that doesn’t mean you’re doomed. If it did, you and I and everybody else would be doomed. Don’t throw your hands up in despair or frustration. Instead, turn around and ask God for more wisdom. He loves to give it to those who love Him.
And remember His promise about this planet we call home. “While the earth remains, Seedtime and harvest, Cold and heat, Winter and summer, And day and night Shall not cease.” Only the fool complains about it.
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.
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
God’s promises are better than gold and rubies. Grab ’em while you can.
Stay tuned,
The post The Earth remains and the fool complains 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
The post Not alone with a phone or heart of stone 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.
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
The post Future security in spite of your iniquity appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
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.
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
The post Byline author shares the reason why he cares appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
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
The post Heat wave slave just can’t behave appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
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
The post Daily rhymes for these troubled times appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
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
The post Ramble on and on until I start to yawn 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
The post Enigmatic sounds and roasted coffee grounds appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
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
The post Contemplation and action and special light’s refraction appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
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
The post Pick up sticks to get your kicks appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
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
The post Chlorophyll benefits more than just a few tidbits appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
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
The post Wishing you all the best during your tough test appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
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
The post Scent from above in the flowers of love appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
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.
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
The post Daily Routine in this man-made machine appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
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.
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
The post Butterfly effect that’s not so indirect 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
The post God made trees that sway in the breeze 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
The post Almost always word plays through the maze light a blaze appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
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
The post Twenty seven days till the cooler season plays 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
The post Light blue sky blue moon and I – a short poetic repose 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.
Why do I write rhymes for you? Well, first off…maybe I don’t. After all, you might not like my style of writing. Or rhyming. And you almost certainly won’t like what I write about. At least not all (or most) … Read the rest
The post Rhymes for you because it’s what I do appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
What good are dreams written down? Before I go any further, I’m not talking about your dreams for how you’d like your life to go. Of course, it’s a good idea to write those down. And, in fact, it’s just … Read the rest
The post Dreams written down might keep you awake at night appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Fear free? Uh…no You’ve probably seen those t-shirts, or caps, or bumper stickers. Right? The ones that say “No Fear” Sure, while it might sound macho, tough, or cool (or should I say, dope and sick?) it’s actually kinda stupid. … Read the rest
The post Fear free? Not me. It’s my fear that sets me free. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Are you a worry wart? My mom is 82. She lives in eastern Kansas. And we talk a couple of times a week, by phone. By her own admission, she’s a worry wart. For those of you too young to … Read the rest
The post Worry wart is not a name you should have as a claim to fame appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
“Dad, are we there yet?” Oh yeah. The dreaded (and yet predictable) are we there yet question. Maybe you remember, as a kid, how you or a brother or sister would get bored on a long family trip. And inevitably … Read the rest
The post Are we there yet? There’s a running bet. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Fire and brimstone Yeah, we’re already getting close to April. And that means those April showers that bring May flowers. Of course, that leads to Memorial Day and backyard barbecues. Wanna try something a little different this year? How about … Read the rest
The post Fire and brimstone or a Heavenly ice cream cone appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
You don’t have a lizard brain No reptilian brain. Or paleomammalian brain. And certainly no neomammalian brain. (Hey, maybe that’s where they got the Neo character in The Matrix…no, I don’t think so.) Before I go any further, I gotta … Read the rest
The post Lizard brain on a train going down the drain appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Make hay while the sun shines It’s an old saying. But it’s still true. “Make hay while the sun shines” means to make the best of opportunity while it lasts. But these days there are huge amounts of doomsdayers and … Read the rest
The post Make hay while the sun shines and accent your laugh lines appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Outside the box and inside the lines They tell you to think outside the box. But then they say you should stay inside the lines of a proven system. Oh, what’s a human to do? And who’s right? The outsiders … Read the rest
The post Outside the box, inside the lines, up to the blue skies, down in the mines appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
OK, here’s your Tuesday morning motivation First, with a show of hands, how many of you even need some Tuesday morning motivation? How about afternoon? Or evening? Well, that’s too bad. I ain’t got none for you. Aw, just kidding. … Read the rest
The post Tuesday morning motivation is my mental recreation appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Celebrating International Women’s Day I’ve been a staunch supporter of the rights of women my entire adult life. No, I’m not a so-called “activist”. That just sounds silly to me. Because if you need to set aside one day and … Read the rest
The post International Women’s Day today tomorrow and yesterday appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
OK, kids. Let’s talk about the Pythagorean Theorem. It actually sounds more complicated than it is. And writing it down certainly makes it look simple. a2 + b2 = c2 But that looks almost a little too simple. After all, it’s … Read the rest
The post Pythagorean Theorem is more than a magic serum appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Ah, the color of music notes The only reason I’m writing about the color of music notes, today, is because I feel like it. There’s no underlying or hidden message. And I’m not trying to get you to do, say, … Read the rest
The post Color of music notes when imagination floats appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Beware of my brain manipulation superpower Hide your kids. Or at least cover their ears. Unless you’re willing to let them be controlled by my brain manipulation superpower. I’m able to activate their different brain lobes all at the same … Read the rest
The post Brain manipulation superpower every day and every hour appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Do you trust your gut? And should you trust your gut? Look around the world wide web and you’ll find articles on all sides of that. One says, yes. Another says, no. Others say it’s psychological. And still others say … Read the rest
The post Trust your gut if you dare But it’s sneaky, so beware appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Alone in the universe It sounds so sad. Right? We’re all alone in the universe. Just saying the words brings on anxiety, depression, and a deep, drowning sense of dread. Hit the record scratch sound effect. Not me! I’ve never … Read the rest
The post Alone in the universe and where they search makes it worse appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Guacamole Song I’m singin’ the guacamole song today. Because we bought a batch of avocados, and every one of them were excellent. If you don’t like avocados, or especially if you don’t like guacamole, I have to wonder about you. … Read the rest
The post Guacamole song and healthy people sing along appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
I bet you have personal hopes and dreams Unless you live under a tyrannical government, in slavery, you’re probably pursuing your hopes and dreams. And I hope yours are not totally self-centered. In other words, I hope you’re looking for … Read the rest
The post Hopes and dreams and honey sunbeams appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
It’s time to scatter a little space, time, and matter I haven’t talked about this in a little while. And I love this topic. So, I wanna share a little tidbit about space, time, and matter. I know. Not a … Read the rest
The post Space time and matter make evolution splatter appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
The last word is most remembered In a heated argument, it often seems like everyone wants to be the one to get in the last word. Sometimes it’s because they really DO have the most important thing to say. But … Read the rest
The post The last word from your lips flows through your fingertips appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Letter by Letter – Line By Line Anything you do in life can’t be done all at once. At least not anything worth doing. You can’t even breathe all at once. There’s an inhale and an exhale. And I could … Read the rest
The post Line by line and word by word and some advice you never heard appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Who’s afraid of Old Man Winter? As I write this, it’s the third day of February in the year 2020. Yesterday was almost warm enough to be part of early summer. But, according to all the weather forecasts I see, … Read the rest
The post Old Man Winter is a darned old dissenter appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Hang on to the will to carry on Way, way back in about 1975 I was just getting started writing lyrics more than poems. And I also worked in a disco. Yes, a disco. As a bartender and floorwalker. (Remind … Read the rest
The post The will to carry on while I’m here and when I’m gone appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Surely you realize time is of the essence. I looked up the usage and/or meaning of the phrase: time is of the essence. And oddly enough, it’s most common usage is in English and Canadian law. Of course, my right … Read the rest
The post Time is of the essence – yeah, that makes sense appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
“Where is he Doc?” “Somewhere between dreams and reality.” I’m sure you’ve watched at least a movie or two where the main star struggles with issues of sanity. It’s a pretty common theme in mystery, sci-fi, and horror movies. And … Read the rest
The post Somewhere between dreams and reality is my mental locality appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Grasping for the wind Have you ever tried to grab yourself a good handful of wind? Simple. Right? Yeah, hardly. OK, now imagine you’ve literally been given the keys to the kingdom. In fact, you’ve been made the king (or … Read the rest
The post Grasping for the wind is not a good way to end 🎶 appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
A sleepy-eyed bon fide wee hours wanderer At 2:45 this morning I bumbled out of bed, as I do most every morning, and made my way into the kitchen. An issue I’ve been dealing with, for the past couple of … Read the rest
The post Sleepy-eyed and bona fide with no safer place to hide appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Since talk is cheap, I’m goin’ back to sleep It’s the wee hours of the morning. So, if I can’t make sense of this, I’m going back to sleep. Unless you’re a recent public school graduate, you probably know what … Read the rest
The post Talk is cheap so go back to sleep appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Hmm…there’s nothing new to say today Imagine a king from a far away land. From a distant time in the past. A king who had more riches than anyone. And literally lacked for nothing. But none of it was enough. … Read the rest
The post Nothing new to say today but I won’t go away appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
This isn’t about a sea of blue I’ve had quite a few listeners and readers ask me to consider sharing more of my “old”writings and music. And that’s pretty cool. So, thank you for asking. And the old poem, I’m … Read the rest
The post A sea of blue is gone and I moved on appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Don’t give it all you got Cue up the Rocky theme music. Zoom the camera in on Rocky running through the backstreets of Philadelphia. Build up the music as he runs up those stairs. Feel the excitement as he reaches … Read the rest
The post Give it all you got or maybe you should not appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Starshine in Iris Forty-five years ago. It’s not possible. But it’s true. The year, 1975, was forty-five years ago. It was a significant year for me for several reasons. A few small. A few large. And I was still in … Read the rest
The post Starshine in Iris became a tribute I wrote to a name appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Perilous times will come A guy, named Paul, wrote a letter, almost 2000 years ago, to another guy, named Timothy. And in one of the lines he said, “But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come:”And … Read the rest
The post Perilous times will come he said while beating his drum appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Life in this topsy turvy world I wish the good people I know had all the great successes in life. And I wish the people who thumb their noses at God were the most miserable failures in the world. Yeah, … Read the rest
The post Topsy turvy world where good and bad are swirled appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
You came from the heart of God I’m sure there are a lot of people who couldn’t care less about the heart of God. After all, they don’t even believe He exists. Much less has a heart. And on a … Read the rest
The post The heart of God renews the flawed appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Music makes me happy. How ’bout you? Like the picture says, I promise this ain’t gonna be sappy. But it’s true. Music makes me happy. I don’t mean it forces me to be happy. And I don’t mean ALL music. … Read the rest
The post Music makes me happy – I promise this ain’t sappy. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
You were born with a very special gift. You may not be the only person in the world with your gift. But nobody can use your gift the exact same way you can. Know why? Because you’re one-of-a-kind. God didn’t … Read the rest
The post You Have A Very Special Gift appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Doesn’t it feel nice to eat a good, tasty dinner and finish it off with a yummy dessert? You feel all warm and fuzzy inside. You’re full and completely happy. Then something happens, and before you know it, you’re hungry … Read the rest
The post Fill Up On The Fullness of God appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Do you wonder why God kept the best secret ever a secret for so long? Since His secret was so full of good news”why did He wait so long to share it with us? Well, you might read Bible stories … Read the rest
The post Why God Does The Things He Does appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Did anybody ever tell you a secret and ask you not to tell anybody else? That’s how a secret is supposed to work. But, the trouble is, it seems like nobody can keep a secret. So, before you know it, … Read the rest
The post The Best Secret Ever Told appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Do you ever play with building blocks? It’s fun. You can stack “˜em up and make a house, or a fort, or a skyscraper. Some blocks even have letters and colors on them so you can make words and pictures. … Read the rest
The post Do You Know What A Chief Cornerstone Is? appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Isn’t it nice when you can be calm and enjoy some peace and quiet? Sometimes you just wanna be still and think. And that’s hard to do when people are mad at each other. It seems like the world is … Read the rest
The post How To Have Peace and Quiet in a Noisy Angry World appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
God is Faithful This world tempts you with all kinds of stuff to get you to take your focus off God. You have toys, video games, TV shows, movies, smartphones, tablets, four-wheelers, clothes and shoes, musical instruments, and I could … Read the rest
The post God Is Faithful – so you can take what this world dishes out appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
With all your heart – Love your Creator When I say the word “Lord”, do you know who I’m talking about? Does that word remind you of a movie or a video game or some TV show? Or do you … Read the rest
The post With All Your Heart Do You Love The One who created you? appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Give your love to someone who needs it today There’s only one thing in this world you get more of when you give it away. Raise your hand, if you know what that is? Hmm…I see a few hands raised. … Read the rest
The post Give Your Love To Someone Who Sure Needs It Today appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Sharing one of my Christian kids songs today OK moms, dads, grandparents…anyone who wants to share God’s love with kids…check it out. I’m gonna share one of my Christian kids songs with you. And it’s free for anyone who wants to … Read the rest
The post Christian Kids Songs – I’m sharing one of mine Today appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
A reason to be happy It’s summer right now here in America. And most people think that’s the best time of the year. But maybe you’re not feeling all that good about it. If that’s true, here’s what I want … Read the rest
The post Can You Find A Reason To Be Happy Today? appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Every night and day you are loved I hope you didn’t get up on the wrong side of the bed this morning. I almost did. When I woke up, it was still dark outside. No cars driving by. No train … Read the rest
The post Every Night And Day of your life you are loved by your Creator appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
What’s your big idea today? You got up. Then you had breakfast. You got dressed. And you cleaned your room. Now what? Any ideas? Got some fun things to do? Or places to go? What’s your big idea for the … Read the rest
The post What’s Your Big Idea For Today? Guess who’ll help you with it. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Do you know how to believe in your heart? Well, there’s a key in there. Yep, it’s true. And guess what the key opens. If you guessed a door, or a lock, or a passage way, you’re right. But can … Read the rest
The post How To Believe In Your Heart appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
If your imagination whisks you up and zooms you through the skies, the heavens, and the galaxies, I’ll clap my hands for you. If you daydream about building a spaceship or riding a golden horse or even writing a book, … Read the rest
The post The Simple Truth Is…God Is Not Make Believe appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
If you’re out and about with kids, and they spot something in a colorful garden, and they want to stop and smell the flowers, you’ve just been blessed with a beautiful opportunity to talk to them about their Creator. And … Read the rest
The post Why Kids Should Stop and Smell The Flowers appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
If you think the world is a pretty mean place, you’re right. And if you think the whole world is against you, even that might be true. But no matter how bad it is…or how bad it gets…it’s not nearly … Read the rest
The post God Put Some Mighty Good Things In You appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Maybe you already know you’re supposed to “love your neighbor as yourself“. But sometimes your neighbor isn’t very lovable. What do you do then? Well, what would you want done for you if someone thought you weren’t lovable? Maybe you’d … Read the rest
The post How Do You Love Your Neighbor? appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Do you ever feel like doing the wrong thing even when you know what the right thing is? And do you ever wonder why you feel that way? If you’re a child of the Living God, this world (and the … Read the rest
The post Should You Always Do The Right Thing? appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
It takes a mom and a dad to make a baby. Always remember that’s how it works, even if you don’t see your mom or your dad. And remember this, too…God loves you. He’s always there for you to talk … Read the rest
The post Hey Kids! God Loves You! I’m telling you it’s true appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
More powerful than climate change Trust God’s promises and don’t fear climate change. Here’s what your Creator says about our planet. While the earth remains, Seedtime and harvest, Cold and heat, Winter and summer, And day and night Shall not … Read the rest
The post God’s Promises Are More Powerful Than Climate Change appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Merry Christmas! May the Prince of Peace rule in your heart today and always. Please enjoy this song as my gift to you. And here are the words… I Believe In The God of Christmas Some believe there’s just today” … Read the rest
The post Merry Christmas 2014 appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Happy Monday to you. I hope your day and week are awesome. As I start my Monday morning ( earlier than I’d like because my dog woke me up) I find music in my head. That isn’t new to me, … Read the rest
The post My Monday Morning Music appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
When the sun shines, it’s a good idea to get outside. And not just because it’s fun, but also because it’s so good for you. Did you know that sunshine on your skin helps your body make Vitamin D. It’s … Read the rest
The post When The Sun Shines on those laugh lines appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
So, once there was a lily pad that no frog ever used. You wouldn’t think a lily pad would get its feelings bruised, But sure enough this lily pad cried to itself each night… And each day did its very … Read the rest
The post The Lonely Lily Pad appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Get plenty of sleep. Eat foods that are good for you. Don’t eat and drink sugary stuff all the time. Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Yep, these are all healthy habits for kids. But did you know … Read the rest
The post Healthy Habits For Kids appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
You’re not perfect, and that’s something you should never worry about. If you’re worrying, and fretting, and always thinking about how you can or could be perfect, you’re really going to limit how much good you can do for others … Read the rest
The post You're Not Perfect appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Have you ever sat down and thought about how unique you really are? It’s true. There’s not another person on the whole planet with the same fingerprints, DNA, or even the same brain as you. When you think about the … Read the rest
The post Be Yourself appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Life is not a tightrope walk. Oh sure, there may be lots of challenges that feel like it, but there’s so much more to it than that. Today, there was a very anticipated and talked about event where a tightrope … Read the rest
The post Tightrope appeared first on Tony Funderburk.