current events Archives - Tony Funderburk: Recent Episodes
Tony Funderburk
Wow. It’s America’s 250th birthday. And I bet there’s a good chance you get to enjoy an awesome fireworks display wherever you live. I hope you also get to enjoy the company of family and friends and good food and great fun. After all, on Independence Day, 2026 you can actually sing along to Saturday In The Park by the band Chicago, and the lyrics will actually fit.
Because Independence Day 2026 falls on a Saturday!I read somewhere that won’t happen again until the year 2037. I haven’t verified that. But it seems plausible. Because I sure don’t remember the last time it happened. And it might only mean something to boomers. But I think it’s cool.
Freedom of expression and creativity, the kind we’ve had in America for my whole life, is a big reason why happy, upbeat songs like that ever get written. But most people don’t know that our freedom didn’t start with a declaration of independence from England or a constitution.
And that’s why I take at least a moment on 4th of July to thank God for the ultimate freedom He gave us through the death and resurrection of His Son, Jesus. Yep, without that, I doubt very seriously there’d even be an America that made it to Independence Day 2026.
Here’s my song, in a video, about how truly fortunate we are to live in a country whose founding fathers recognized a dependency on our Creator for our ultimate freedom.
Happy and safe Independence Day 2026 to you. I hope and pray there will be more to come.
Faith working through love…
Let’s praise God for our liberty…
Christ paid off our debt…
Only in Him are we truly free. (lyrics from Freedom) © 2010 TF
If you enjoy this kind of freedom, let’s stay connected. It’s super easy. Here’s how:
Get my Rhyme and Reason Daily Devotional delivered to your inbox for free.It’s good stuff based on the power of God’s love. And, I’ll send you download links to music and The Very First 6 Days (a rhyming book for kids about the creation week) right away. Kids from 3 to 103 can enjoy these fun goodies. Just add your email to the form and let’s connect right away.
The form can be filled in the actual website url.
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The post Independence Day 2026 with a song in the mix appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Just about everywhere you look or go people seem to be mad about something. And a lot of them don’t seem to have any problem letting that anger, inside, out for everyone to see.
But when the anger inside comes out, so does the ugliness of sin.People are walking around with chips on their shoulders. That’s what we used to call it anyway. Or you could say they’re carrying grudges in their hearts. And that would be bad enough. But at least it would be invisible to just about everyone. Trouble is, they don’t stop the anger inside from coming out. And a lot of it even leads to escalated physical harm.
But I’ll let you in on a little secret about the root cause. Selfishness.
Yeah, selfishness is at the heart of almost all anger issues. It’s difficult to manage your anger, when all you care about is how he or she or the whole world wronged you.
And you find a way to justify your own anger, when you don’t take responsibility for your actions. I’ve been dealing with this with someone I’ve known for a very, very long time. He believes I’ve wronged him in the past (issues from 20 years ago and beyond). And he has told me I’ve never apologized or shown any remorse.
I’m not gonna share the whole sob story. But I can say with a clear conscience that this person has ripped me off multiple times, left me in the lurch multiple times, and F-bombed Jesus in my house. And, to this day, he’s never once apologized or shown any remorse for his actions. Some say this is narcissism. And I don’t disagree.
But again, the root cause is selfishness. And rebellion against God.The person I’m talking about doesn’t care what God says about anger. But, to quote from Paul’s writing in Ephesians, “be angry and do not sin.” And when Paul wrote that, he was actually quoting from one of King David’s Psalms where it said, “Be angry, and do not sin, Meditate within your heart on your bed, and be still.”
But people obsess over problems, challenges, and obstacles in everyday life. That makes it easy to form a tunnel vision where the tunnel always leads to SELF.
And that leads to projecting those problems onto others. And that leads to self harm. Physical, mental, and emotional harm. You might not realize the full negative consequences of letting the anger inside out while you’re young and strong. But they’ll show up eventually. And the older you are, the more harmful the consequences.
There are even studies that say anger encourages cancer.I’m not saying those studies are absolutely true. But it might be more than coincidence that the rising rate of cancer in the world happens at the same time there are more angry people than ever.
So, what about you? What rules in your life? Anger? Or joy? I wrote this rhyme about it years ago…
If you’re angry, just don’t sin.
Open up your heart and let God in.
He can help you work it out.
And He’ll show you what it’s all about.
Life is better, when you trust
The One who is Holy, right, and just.
Give it up, and I know…
You’ll be glad where God will help you go.
If this didn’t make you mad, let’s stay connected. It’s super easy. Here’s how:
Get my Rhyme and Reason Daily Devotional delivered to your inbox for free.It’s good stuff based on the power of God’s love. And, I’ll send you download links to music and The Very First 6 Days (a rhyming book for kids about the creation week) right away. Kids from 3 to 103 can enjoy these fun goodies. Just add your email to the form and let’s connect right away.
The form can be filled in the actual website url.
Stay tuned,
The post Anger inside out can take a harmful route appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
When I was a young boy, my mom saved S&H Green Stamps. They were like rewards you get on your apps these days. Stamps a shopper received at stores, gas stations, or just about anywhere housewives shopped. Yeah, I know. “Housewives” is a politically incorrect term. But it wasn’t back then. Ah…the good old days.
Especially the S&H Green Stamps good old days.Because when a woman saved enough Green Stamps, she could redeem them for all sorts of household items she found in the S&H catalog. It was like free money. I remember my mom talking with her friends and family about some clock radio or dish set she just got with her stamps. It made for fun, and sometimes lively, conversation. And they’d share the news of double stamps days at the local grocery store. Then, bam! Time to storm the grocery store.
Speaking of time, how is time like Green Stamps? And that’s not actually a trick question.
Answer. They can both be redeemed. Well, I don’t think Green Stamps can anymore. Because I don’t think there’s that kind of rewards program around anymore. But time can still be redeemed.
Dan don’t believe me? Don’t think you could redeem time and get something “for free?”
Well, you can. And guess what you get? OK, I won’t make you guess.
The answer is more time.Yeah, I don’t mean you can turn 24 hour days into 30 hour days. But you can buy more time by making good use of the time you have here on planet Earth. In fact, you can buy time that never runs out. How cool is that?!
But you can’t just sit on your time. You gotta redeem it. Here’s how you do that. First, become a Christian. And if you’re already a Christian, you gotta “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.” That’s getting a lot harder to do. Because more and more the world doesn’t wanna hear the name Jesus mentioned under any circumstances. So, it’s important to emphasize the “grace” and “salt” part.
I do that here on my blog. I’m redeeming the time I have left by sharing the power of God’s love and His enduring message of eternal life with anyone who cares to listen and/or read.
Now, are you paying attention to the clock? Because there’s a lot more than green stamps at stake.
“All I need is some time to hold in my hands.
All I want is some time to hold in my arms.” ~Tony Funderburk
If this landed somewhere good with you, let’s stay connected. It’s super easy. Here’s how:
Get Tony’s Rhyme and Reason Daily Devotional delivered to your inbox for free.It’s good stuff based on the power of God’s love. And, to show my sincere appreciation for your time and attention, I’ll send you download links to music and The Very First 6 Days (a rhyming book for kids about the creation week) right away. Kids from 3 to 103 can enjoy these fun goodies. Just add your email to the form and let’s connect right away.
The form can be filled in the actual website url.
Stay tuned,
The post Green stamps, good stuff, and it was all good enough appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
So many so-called pro athletes, movie stars, musicians and other artsy fartsy freakazoids are full of angst and aggression these days.
And I’m not saying they don’t have a good reason.
But I DO say their angst and aggression sure sounds stupid most of the time.And I’m talking about the ones who make millions of dollars for just playing with a ball, or memorizing lines, or looking good on a screen, or for recording some lunatic lyrics with a catchy beat. Yeah, ironically, those who make the most money seem to do the loudest complaining about the free enterprise system we have here in America.
Talk about biting the hand that feeds you. Sheesh.
Sorry, but they just don’t have a good reason for being so full of dark angst and aggression. And don’t try to tell me they’re just looking out for the little guy, you and me. Puhleez.
I know a lot of those pop icons would call me lame. Or a Bible-thumping-do-gooder. And I know a lot of them like to poke fun at Christians and say they have no grasp on reality. They love to attempt to condescend with statements, like, “Go ahead and pray to your little friend in the sky.“ But I really don’t care.
I prefer to remain a hope-filled optimist.Because the Christian message is true (an overwhelming amount of evidence says it is). So, I’m already on the winning team. My so-called “little friend” just happens to be the Head Coach of all creation. And He will lead my team to victory over ALL other opposing teams.
The leader of my pack is not only the True Alpha male. He’s also the Omega Man! And that helps me sing and write angst and aggression free. I gotta tell ya, that’s a huge boost to my endorphins and a significant reduction to any potential cortisol issues. In other words, Jesus is the ultimate stress reducer. He’s the cure. And I’m just a supplement. But I’m blessed to even be that.
And here’s what I recommend for your health. Don’t watch the TV or cable news. Filter out the mainstream from all your social media and internet connections. Stick with me, of course. And, by all means, skip, the namby-pamby, ne’er-do-well, yada-yada rants made by privileged celebrities who think they’re all that plus the bag of chips.
Your body, soul, and spirit will thank you. And don’t be surprised if you start smiling more.
When I’m being optimistic
I know I’ll be fine.
Asking why is realistic;
Knowing why, divine. © 1987 TF
Get Tony’s Rhyme and Reason Daily Devotional delivered to your inbox for free.I share it with believers who want to focus on the power of God’s love and rightly divide the word of truth. Spend your time reading, listening, and watching good stuff based on the power of God’s love instead of looking for it. And, to show my sincere appreciation for your time and attention, I’ll send you download links to music and The Very First 6 Days (a rhyming book for kids about the creation week) right away. Kids from 3 to 103 can enjoy these fun goodies. Just add your email to the form and let’s connect right away.
Stay tuned,
The post Angst and aggression from a privileged profession appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
I’ve been encouraging anybody who would read what I write and listen to what I say to remain optimistic in tough times. But I don’t just say the words. I also share why it’s not just good advice. It’s important to your health down to the marrow of your bones.
Remain optimistic in tough times because the alternative should be unthinkable.The subject came up in my thoughts this morning for a particularly personal reason. Today, April 17, 2026 marks the one year “anniversary” of a stroke that challenged me to follow my own advice. But I believe I can honestly say that, despite challenges, I never dreamed I would face, I have remained optimistic in the tough times of the past year.
I won’t tell you what all the challenges were/are. But they include a left arm and hand that won’t hold things very well without wavering in the air. And a left leg that refuses to take normal steps during a walk. Plus most things on my left side operate with much less efficiency than they did a year ago. That includes my left lung and blood circulation on that side. And probably the weirdest thing that happened was the development of a neurogenic bladder.
Most of the information you’ll find on a neurogenic bladder deals with incontinence, urgency, etc. But what happened to me is something they call an under active bladder. And that means the nerves that alert you to the need to go and allow you to start a stream and go don’t work now. So, I have to insert a catheter four or five times a day, to empty out. Not my idea of a fun time.
And I’ve only shared this personal information with you because I hope it helps somebody understand how crucial it is to remain optimistic, even during rough times like what I described. I know it isn’t always easy. But it’s always necessary. And it’s always doable when you remember that, if you believe and trust in Jesus, one day, sooner than you might imagine, you will see Him…
Face To FaceWhen we’re born into this world,
We’re empty-handed.
We can’t speak, and we can barely even see.
As we grow we see this life,
In which we landed…
Is a thread of well-designed complexity.
Each and every one of us
Had a beginning…
And, so very small, a spark of life sufficed.
Then we turned away from God
And started sinning…
And that put us face to face with Jesus Christ.
Face to face with Truth…face to face with Life.
Yeah, the Way to paradise is face to face
With the One who died and who lives inside.
Jesus Christ even loves us face to face.
When we leave this world, we’re
Leaving empty-handed.
We can go to that eternal, perfect place.
When we make the choice of Life,
We won’t be stranded.
And we’ll get to see our Savior’s loving face. © 2020 TF
Get my Tony’s Rhyme and Reason Daily Devotional. Because the flashes of light I share on my website come directly to your inbox. So you can spend your valuable time reading instead of searching. And, to show my sincere appreciation for your time and attention, I’ll send you download links to books and music, right away. Kids from 3 to 103 can enjoy these fun goodies.
The form can be filled in the actual website url.
Stay tuned,
The post Remain optimistic in tough times and I show you how with my rhymes appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Just because some authoritative power makes a rule doesn’t make the rule a good one, a just one, or a fair one. In fact, many rules, policies, and laws are downright bad. But you gotta think and ponder and examine to know which rules are good and which are bad. Before you decide to break rules you’d better be sure you’re on the right side.
But is that possible?
Short answer is yes.
But before you break authoritative rules, check yourself.Maybe you have a lot of self-imposed rules for your life and/or the life of your loved ones. And maybe it would be a good idea to sit down, today, and re-examine whether they’re good ones or not. Here’s how you can know. If your rule shows your love for someone else, it’s a good one. If it doesn’t show love, or if it actually displays selfishness, it’s a bad one. That’s pretty much it. Simple. Right? Well, that depends on if you know HOW to show love.
So, do you?
If you’re not sure you’re any good at showing and sharing love, then I have another simple answer for you. Would you like the rules, you impose on someone else, imposed on you? If you conjure up a silly notion in your head for how someone else should live and treat you, are you willing to live that way and be treated that way? If not, you might’ve made up a bad rule.
I remember this subject came up in a conversation with a nice couple. I met in Tulsa, Oklahoma years and years ago. I was on the road full-time. And I got a booking at a nice hotel in that area. And that couple came in several nights while I was there. They heard a song I wrote, which I’ll share the lyrics to below. And on my break, we all talked about it.
In the end, we all agreed to come down to this: “If I don’t want that done to me, I shouldn’t do it to someone else.” Yeah, get together with the ones you love and talk over what’s going on. If you realize the rules aren’t working, somebody needs to say…
Let’s Break Some RulesWe play it all so careful.
We live within our means.
We don’t wear lots of jewelry or ninety dollar jeans.
We do our own repair work.
We water own lawn.
We’ve minimized the risks we take,
But now the thrill is gone
So let’s break some rules tonight…
Incite a riot in our hearts.
Let’s break some rules tonight…
Get someone else to play our parts.
Let’s create some tension;
Go out and grab some danger,
And they make say we look like total fools,
But at least for awhile…let’s break some rules.
We curse those Monday mornings
We gripe about our pay
We say we’ll make some changes
But it just can’t be today.
Chorus…
Well, who’s gonna do it if we don’t?
Who’ll make it better if we won’t?
I wonder…don’t it make you wonder?!
chorus…etc.
© 1987 Tony Funderburk (April 29)
(psst…if you wanna hear an old recording of this song, Tune in to The Power of God’s Love Podcast)
Get Tony’s Rhyme and Reason Daily Devotional delivered to your inbox for free.I share it with believers who want to focus on the power of God’s love and rightly divide the word of truth. Spend your time reading, listening, and watching good stuff based on the power of God’s love instead of looking for it. And, to show my sincere appreciation for your time and attention, I’ll send you download links to music and The Very First 6 Days (a rhyming book for kids about the creation week) right away. Kids from 3 to 103 can enjoy these fun goodies. Just add your email to the form and let’s connect right away.
The form can be filled in the actual website url.
Stay tuned,
The post Break rules but not like fools appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
I saw this headline on a social media platform today: Podcast Host Calls White Evangelical Christianity a Cancer – And I could not believe how badly they misspelled the word blessing. I mean, cancer doesn’t even remotely look like blessing. So how could they mix those words up so badly?
Because I’m sure they meant to say white evangelical Christianity is a blessing.At least if they really wanted to share the truth. But I know that’s a rare commodity in journalism these days. So, now that I think about it a little bit more, maybe they actually meant to write the word cancer.
No. Could that possibly be it?!
But could someone actually study the overwhelmingly positive influence of white, evangelical Christianity and actually come up with this illogical, incorrect conclusion? Absolutely they could. Because people who hate God, the one true, living, loving creator of the universe God, will say anything against Him and His followers.
Jesus said that would happen, by the way.
So, if you’re a Christian, and the color of your skin is what the world call white (even though it isn’t), and you share the truth of God’s word and the power of God’s love, you might as well face it. You, my friend, are a cancer in this world.
But never worry, never fear. Your buddy Tony is here. And here are some white evangelical Christianity lyrics to help you deal with it:
In This World But Not Of ItI’m in this world but not of it.
I like this life but don’t love it.
My Savior rises above it.
I’m in this world but not of it.
This world can beat me up.
But this world is not my home.
I have a finer place where I will forever roam.
This world’s no easy street.
This world is not so nice.
It costs a lot to leave,
But my Father paid the price.
So…Chorus
This world has lots of love,
But this world is filled with hate.
One day it won’t be so,
And so I can hardly wait.
This world has moans and groans.
This world has aches and pain,
But soon even this shall pass,
Jesus the King will reign.
Chorus…inst…chorus 3 times © TF 2008
Get Tony’s Rhyme and Reason Daily Devotional delivered to your inbox for free.I share it with believers who want to focus on the power of God’s love and rightly divide the word of truth. Spend your time reading, listening, and watching good stuff based on the power of God’s love instead of looking for it. And, to show my sincere appreciation for your time and attention, I’ll send you download links to music and The Very First 6 Days (a rhyming book for kids about the creation week) right away. Kids from 3 to 103 can enjoy these fun goodies. Just add your email to the form and let’s connect right away.
The form can be filled in the actual website url.
Stay tuned,
The post White Evangelical Christianity a blessing to humanity appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
We’re finishing up the first half of July 2025. And this is the weekly edition of the FunderCast. This week I talk about the when where and why of it. Here’s the down low you need to know:
Subscribe to my FunderFlash Journal, my ongoing Devotional that’s Logical AND Emotional. Because then the flashes of light I share on my website go right to your inbox. So you can spend your valuable time reading and listening instead of searching. And, to show my sincere appreciation for your time and attention, I’ll send you download links to books and music, right away. Kids from 3 to 103 can enjoy these fun goodies.
The form can be filled in the actual website url.
Stay tuned,
The post When Where Why the first half of July appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
I woke up this morning and saw the same stories in the news again. Too many fires. And too many people with questions. And not many who shared how Living Water is the answer. So, you know what that means.
Too many more fires to come.But this ain’t about too many fires burning down forests, prairies, or houses. It’s about a focus on problems when you should be focused the solution.
A long time ago, if you wanted to tell God something, you had to follow a bunch of rules. And if you wanted God’s help with your problems, you had to ask a high priest to let God know your request.
But then Jesus lived, died, and rose from the dead to make a way to change that. Now, you can pray to God anytime and every time you want, and He’ll listen. It doesn’t matter how many fiery problems are burning across your landscape right now. Because Jesus, who called Himself the Living Water, can help you put them all out.
He loves to hear from you, by the way.
So, try this idea.
Talk to God today and ask Him for some peace and quiet. Then, be still and listen for His word. I should say, that last part works if and when you’ve been in His word and His word is in you. If that’s not quite how it is, then grab yourself a Bible and read Paul’s letters. You can find them way over in the right side of the book. He wrote 13 of them. And they’re the ones from Romans to Philemon.
Paul certainly knew a thing or two about too many fires.He was beaten with rods. And he received 195 lashes on his back. He was stoned. Shipwrecked three times. Dangerously adrift at sea. Thrown in prison, where he almost died, several times. And he listed a bunch of perils:
- waters
- robbers
- my own countrymen
- the Gentiles
- in the city, and
- the wilderness
- in the sea, and
- among false brethren
Wow. Every way he turned. But those weren’t the only issues. He also dealt with:
- weariness and toil
- sleeplessness often
- hunger and thirst
- fastings often
- cold and nakedness, and
- the other daily issues like his deep concern for all the churches
But Paul understood how prayers put your focus on the solution.And he knew when you focus on all the fires (issues), you just end up with too many fires. So, I hope you’ll follow my suggestion and stop listening to and reading what everyone, who gets their unwise wires crossed, says about it. Forget about all the sky-is-falling people running their potty mouths, full time, about the bad news of the day.
Because the Good News is as close as your thoughts.
And you’re not just one of those programmed robots
Who can only see the fires that result from those crossed wires
Used so foolishly by ignorant crackpots.
Stay tuned,
P.S. Your email address connects you with download links to 2 of my Christian books for kids and 2 songs, right away. Fun for kids AND not too cutesy. So grownups enjoy it, too. Subscribe, today.
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This world is getting darker and meaner every day. And there are fewer kids doing wholesome kid stuff with each passing year. But I think you’ll find that the sights and scents of a flower garden can still attract kids almost as much as they attract bees.
So, stop what you’re doing and make the most of it. So what if you had an appointment. Be a little late. So what if you’re on the way to work or the kids are on the way to school (which I recommend is in your own home). What you can teach them in a single, precious moment can have eternal benefits. And that trumps the daily routine any time.
With each passing year you have fewer chances to make a difference.Here’s the main reason you and the kids should stop and smell the flowers. Because it’s a simple, effective connection you and they can make to your living, loving God who made the flowers. He’s the Creator who spoke words and all the universe exploded into existence. That’s powerful stuff packed into each flower. And right down to the very fragrance that wafts up into your nose. I call it…
The Scent of HeavenTake a look at the colors in a flower.
They’re as beautiful as anything you’ll see.
And God knows just exactly what they all need
To bring joy and delight to you and me.
Even more than the best and brightest flower
God loves you every moment of the day.
So the next time you stop and smell a lily
Take a minute just to thank the Lord and say…
“Lord I love to smell the lilies of the valley
And the roses, lavender, and lilacs too.
I love to know they come back every springtime.
Best of all I know the flowers came from You.” © 2015
Your email address is all it takes to get encouraging, regular issues of my FunderFlash Journal. It comes directly to your inbox so you spend your valuable time reading instead of searching. And, to show my sincere appreciation for your time and attention, I’ll send you download links to 2 of my Christian books for kids and 2 songs, right away, that grownups AND kids can enjoy.
The form can be filled in the actual website url.
Stay tuned,
The post Each passing year flowers show the Truth here appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Regardless of what happens today, this weekend, or ever, hold on to the Truth. And just in case you didn’t catch it (but I bet you did), I capitalized the word, Truth. And I just did it again. Because I’m not talking about the truth that can be so manipulated in this world filled with lies and AI’s.
It’s crucial to hold on to THE Truth, now, more than ever.Because now, more than ever, that Truth is the only Way to be truly free. Uh-oh. Now I’ve gone and done it. I capitalized the word “Way.” And just in case you didn’t know it (but I bet you do), it’s capitalized because it’s THE Way. And THE Way is the same as THE Truth.
By the way, if you haven’t already found your Way to the Truth (but I bet you have), don’t put it off even one more minute. Planes falling from the sky in the past few days should show you (and I bet they do) how uncertain your amount of time, here on Earth, is. And that uncertainty should make you curious about all the eternal Life talk Christians are always sharing. If it doesn’t, I hope it doesn’t take a personal tragedy to make you curious.
You caught that capitalized word, Life, didn’t you?
Of course, now I’ve gone full circle. Because Jesus called himself “the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” And He said He’s the only way to eternal life in Heaven. With all that’s going on, so far in 2025, I sure hope you’ve decided to take advantage of His amazing grace. I bet you have. But I bet you know someone who hasn’t. Tell ‘em time’s a-wastin’.
Back in 1985-86 I wrote a song called “Hold On.” I didn’t say to hold on to the truth. But the feel is still kinda there.
Hold OnI would love to take you in my arms
And capture all your dreams that get away
And put them in your heart where they belong
And fill it full of love so they can stay
But I wonder if there’s magic in my hands
And I don’t know for sure what I should do
To make your monsters fade and disappear
So I can only sing these words to you…
Hold on; you know you gotta hold real tight
Gotta keep your dreams where they’re easiest to see
Hold on; I know you gotta hold real tight
If you look behind the Love that’s where they’ll be
I would love to see your smiling face
And know that at least in some small way I was there
When you needed someone to help you through your darkness
And help you get your wings back in the air
Chorus
You got to keep believing in your choices
No one but you can really clear the air
And if you find you’re hearing different voices
Then it isn’t just a passing love affair
Repeat 1st verse and choruses to end
© 1986
Take a second and join the growing body of believers who’ve already signed up for the FunderFlash Journal. When you do, I’ll send you links to 2 songs and 2 books that adults AND kids enjoy right away. Then, I’ll send you flashes of light from the faith, hope, and the power of God’s love.
Stay tuned,
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It was four years ago, to the day, today. And a few minutes ago I ran across something I shared that day. I can see it, in my mind’s eye, almost as clearly as if I were looking right at it right now. And that’s even though my location is about as different, now, as night is from day.
I talked about how I was using my iPhone as my computer that morning, in sync with my small, foldable, bluetooth keyboard. And I had my computer, oops iPhone, propped up nicely on a little “drawer” in the dash of my mobile office which was my little blue Toyota truck.
First I paid homage to the day with a short description.So, I mentioned how I could see a fairly long stretch of the front range of the Rocky Mountains. Blue skies, snow-capped peaks, and a few swatches of white clouds drifting by.
It was an early winter day in the early part of 2021. And, yep, January 3rd to be exact. I appreciated the fact that I could sit there soaking in the scenery AND share it with you on my small, portable devices. What a blessing, in a never-ending series of blessings that come with living in the digital age.
And I called ’em blessings as I pointed to a day, not all that long ago in the past, when none of that would have been possible. NONE! But these days you can share ideas, images, words, music, and even videos literally with the world. Almost instantaneously.
Skip the publisher’s rules and arbitrary methods. Skip the hassles of waiting for printing and binding and distribution. And skip the need for bulky, loud, and unreliable equipment.
Yeah, these days you just whip out the little device you carry with you all the time, open up your favorite word processor or video recorder, and blast out your thoughts.
And here’s what’s especially cool about all this.The information and resources to do all this have been here on our little blue planet since the day it was made.
Let that sink in for a minute.
Yeah, every single thing you and I ever needed, to be able to type words on a little keyboard and have them show up on a small screen (connected through the air) has been here our whole lives. And for the whole history of the world.
The only thing lacking, until this time in history was the know-how. An understanding of what does what.
And I wouldn’t be surprised if that’s part of why God tells us to get understanding. Matter of fact, He says “in all your getting, get understanding.” But He adds a caveat just before that when He says “Wisdom is the principal thing. Therefore get wisdom.”
And that’s because humans tend to have an uncanny knack for messing up a good thing. So many people immediately look for (or stumble into) a way to corrupt or pervert the very things that make their lives better and easier. And it’s almost impossible to avoid being one of those people without wisdom.
But that’s not you and me. Right?No, I’m sure you’re just as much in awe over the ability to have a tiny, mobile office as I am. And I’m sure you wanna use your technology and gifts and talents to help others get and maintain an eternal perspective on life.
If so, I encourage you to look for opportunities to serve others. Starting today, if you haven’t already. And help them get to the day when they understand. And realize how they wouldn’t be able to enjoy any entertainment or business applications on their smartphones, laptops, or TV’s, if God hadn’t put all the information here in the first place.
Okay, for today, look for wisdom from The Way.
And you can then do more of what God wants you to.
Your eyes, on the prize, will help you to recognize
God makes no mistakes. So, we have all that it takes
For days, full of praise. Never-ending life-filled days.
Once you see the benefit, join the growing body of believers who’ve already signed up for the FunderFlash Journal. And I’ll send you daily flashes of light so we can stay focused on faith, hope, and love.
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Biblical knowledge is available to anyone who’s interested in finding out more. And the key points, and truth, of the Bible are easy enough to understand that even a child can learn about the love of our Creator. And that’s more important to know and understand than anything else anyone will ever learn.
Good thing Biblical knowledge isn’t being kept under a basket somewhere.Thankfully, Biblical knowledge is still boldly shared all over the internet. At least it is here in America. I’m sure other places in the world still “allow/tolerate” it. But, as an example of what’s shared here in America, I saw some interesting comments on social media today. Like this one:
“One of the biggest lies in society and unfortunately even in much of the church, is that everyone is basically good, rather than the biblical truth that there is NONE who are good except Jesus. That everyone is deserving of hell. That’s why a lot of what the Bible calls sin is justified, because people think – ‘well he’s a good person, why shouldn’t he be happy and allowed to be gay’ etc. This thinking leads to a lack of fear of the Lord, as well as a lukewarm passion for Jesus and a lack of absolute thankfulness that He saved us!!”
And that guy shared that post in response to a quote, by Jonathan Edwards, another guy shared. The quote is, “Almost every natural man that hears of hell flatters himself that he shall escape it.” And the guy who shared the quote added, “Don’t flatter yourself.”
Good point.Another post I saw showed wisdom and discernment you only get with Biblical knowledge. A young woman shared this, “Parents in Canyon, Texas call it a win after the Bible is allowed back in the school’s library. But if the school spends 7-8 hours every day teaching an anti-biblical worldview, what did they win? Christians should take their CHILDREN out of the secular, Marxist government schools. That’s how you win.”
Yes, it is.
And then, you’ll get plenty of the convoluted Biblical knowledge, too. Like this post from someone who uses the handle, Biblical and Reformed (red flag alert). This person simply quoted from scripture in order to justify an incorrect predestination position. He posted, “For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, in order that He might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom He predestined, He also called. And those whom He called, He also justified, and those whom He justified, He also glorified.”
I remember having a discussion with my mom, many moons ago, about how her idea that everything that happens was pre-ordained by God. And she found that very scripture and read it to me. So, I asked her one simple question.
“Mom, who did God NOT foreknow?”
And then I asked her to apply the implications of the answer to that question to her predestination position. I saw the light flicker in the eyes of her understanding. But then, just as quickly, I saw the regurgitation of all those years of flawed Biblical knowledge flood back into her head.
Last, but not least, for now.I saw a post that dared to say the TV series, “Yellowstone isn’t just a show it’s a blueprint for what it means to be a real man. This modern Western dives deep into masculinity, responsibility, and legacy. Let’s break it down through a biblical lens and see what every man can learn from the Duttons.” Ay yi yi!
I’ve never watched that show, but video snippets pop up all over the place. And they almost alway include a LOT of profanity and sexualized content. But the guy who posted that followed up with what he considers supportive info. Like this post, “If you’re a Christ follower, you can spot Christ in the series and movies get ready for some powerful lessons.” (his writing, not mine)
And that just ain’t so. Because it’s not Biblical or Christ-like to do so many anti Christ things but add a “redemptive” twist and call it good.
I know my Biblical knowledge doesn’t have the mass appeal of what passes for knowledge in the pop culture. But I’m totally confident that Jesus doesn’t think Yellowstone is a good show for Christians to watch.
Look, I get it. It’s good to see strong (even “white”) men portrayed in this day and age when soy boys rule so much. But I recommend your role models be Jesus, Paul, and the other patriarchs of the Bible.
So, maybe you don’t need any of this info. If that’s the case, then, as they say in Poland, Nessun problema. Continua con la tua giornata, ci sentiamo più tardi.
A Thousand Times, NOEverything is for a reason.
God is in control.
Everything He turns to good
For His higher goal.
So do you want to thank Him for
Destruction and despair?
Is He the author of confusion?
You see it everywhere…
(from my song, A Thousand Times, NO)
Once you see the benefit, join the growing body of believers who’ve already signed up for the FunderFlash Journal. And I’ll send you daily flashes of light so we can stay focused on faith, hope, and love.
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What I’m about to share probably isn’t for you. But I can almost guarantee it’s good for someone you know or care about. It’s something I shared with others a few years ago. And I asked them this question: If I told you to leave your troubles behind and move forward, what would you do? Get mad at me and say “NO!” Would you tell me I can’t possibly understand your troubles, so I don’t have the right to tell you such a thing? Well, what if I told you this message is from God? Would you say yes, then?
Well, it IS a message from God. So get ready to say yes.Yeah, read the New Testament. I promise it won’t hurt. And it’ll show you how no one gets through this life without troubles. In fact, Jesus himself said there WILL be tribulation (which is big trouble) in this life. He didn’t say maybe there will be. He said there WILL be!
So, does that mean you respond with exasperation, frustration, or consternation? Nay. Nay. And again I say nay. On the contrary. It’s much better (in fact, it’s freedom) to leave your troubles behind and keep “reaching forward for those things which are ahead.” Time only moves in one direction. And that’s the direction to focus.
That’s what I shared with those others a few years ago.
Now. Today is the first day of a brand new year (2025). So, it’s an ideal (because nothing’s perfect) day to say yes to moving forward with your feet and mind planted firmly in the here and now. Because the here and now are the only place and time you can actually DO anything. The past is gone. And the future doesn’t exist.
So, Happy New Year, and leave your troubles behind. Because it’s the right thing to do. And it’s healthful for you.
Keep your eyes on the prize. And, just to reaffirm, that prize is your Creator. I wrote (and then rewrote) a song about moving forward with action and confidence. In a way it’s the most selfish sounding song I’ve ever written. Because Every. Single. Line. starts with I’m. But it’s actually filled with the exhilaration you can get when you trust God.
I’m GonnaI’m gonna dance through this life.
I’m gonna sing myself out of the blues.
I’m gonna feel this whole world.
I’m gonna walk through the air without any shoes.
I’m gonna climb to the top.
I’m gonna see what it’s like on the other side.
I’m gonna glide to the moon.
I’m gonna jump on a cloud and go for a ride.
I’m gonna leave my cares and troubles far behind.
I’m gonna live this brand new life that I’ve designed.
I’m gonna love discovering which way to go.
I’m gonna laugh and then say yes instead of no.
I’m gonna get to the passion.
I’m gonna make my dreams all come true.
I’m gonna go for the limit.
I’m gonna burst the limit and go on through.
I’m gonna sing through this life.
I’m gonna play it loud like a brand new song.
I’m gonna fly on the tune.
I’m gonna ask all my friends to come on along.
I’m gonna leave my cares and troubles far behind
I’m gonna live this brand new life that I’ve designed?
I’m gonna love discovering which way to go.
I’m gonna laugh and then say yes instead of no.
© 2018 Tony Funderburk
Once you see the benefit, join the growing body of believers who’ve already signed up for the FunderFlash Journal. And I’ll send you daily flashes of light so we can stay focused on faith, hope, and love.
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It was about 2,000 years ago. And today doesn’t mark the exact day and time. But that’s another topic for later. Nevertheless some shepherds were on the job, whatever day and time it was. And their job was to watch over their flock of sheep. As they stood under the night sky, a host of angels appeared and told them to follow that curious light, they had noticed in the sky, to where it pointed. So, the shepherds followed that guiding star to Bethlehem to find out more about the story.
They discovered a man and his wife spending the night in a livestock pen with their newborn Baby in a manger. And for some strange reason, the shepherds believed what they were told about this Child. Which was that He was God in the flesh. Can you imagine? Yeah, that would qualify as a mighty big deal. At least if it was true.
Apparently that Child was who He was claimed to be. Because all these years later, we still talk about, sing about, and celebrate that Person born in a manger. And, as a matter of worldwide fact, all of history revolves around His life.
And probably no one knows the exact day and time that was.But wow! How awesome it would have been to be there that night? Well, something that will be even more awesome and glorious will be to live in Paradise forever getting to know that Person we Christians call Jesus. He came to earth to be born as a real human baby. Then, He grew into a real human man. Then, He suffered a real human death. But He resurrected after 3 days to show us what could be true for any and all trust Him. And all because He loves us.
Since I don’t see myself as all that lovable, it does my heart good to re-read the story from time to time. And at this Christmas time of year, it’s particularly good to share it with others. I hope you will too. Merry Christmas 2024.
Because I CAN LoveWhat made You think
That I was worth the risk You took?
What made You take the time
To write Your Holy Book?
I don’t believe I’d give myself a second look,
But You did because You love.
You made a world
That was as perfect as could be,
But then I broke it
When You gave it all to me…
By going through the gate You made to set me free.
This You did because You love…me.
Because You love me so…in spite of all You know…
Because You did the most that You could ever do…
Because I clearly see…evidence of You in me…
Because I can love…I do love…You!
You put a life
And a will inside my soul.
You knew true love
Would be to give me full control.
But knowing You is all that ever makes me whole.
I trust You because You love…me.
I can live because You live!
I can love because You love!
© 2010 Tony Funderburk
Once you see the benefit, join the growing body of believers who’ve already signed up for the FunderFlash Journal. And I’ll send you daily flashes of light so we can stay focused on faith, hope, and love.
Stay tuned…
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Your government’s budget (and every other part) is NOT operating on or in a just and wise system. And if you ran your household like politicians run this country, you’d be a dead duck already.
Dead duck. That’s kind of a weird thing to say when you think about it.I read, somewhere, that Andrew Jackson first used the expression, dead duck, in the 1840’s to describe a political opponent. And I don’t know if that’s true. But, based on other things I’ve read about that former president, it sounds plausible.
Anyway…
Yeah, your household couldn’t, and wouldn’t survive, the kind of deficits your country has. Here’s something I wrote, years ago, about how reasonable taxation could help you be more creative.
~ If we took enough from every taxpayer (say about 5%) and spent it on only those things that benefit the country, we’d have beautiful bridges, smooth roads, and strong defense against all enemies. And lots more time for creative endeavors and innovations. ~
Can you imagine how much nicer (and budget friendly) it would be to drive on smooth roads all the time? And how much safer you’d be if all our bridges were maintained they way they should be? Not to mention (be here I go mentioning) how much safer we’d all be if our enemies knew they’d be a dead duck to try to stand up to our strength.
But THAT good ol’ USA went away.A long time ago. It didn’t just happen in the last four years. Sure, the last four years have been some of the most disastrous in American history. But the system that got us here started over 100 years ago.
Years ago I described what we now have like this:
~ Instead we have a tax system that only the trained professionals and lawyers can understand. And it makes for “class” envy, fraud, and political skimming. Not to mention that our tax system has become a Robin Hood money laundering machine. Take from those who work hard and give to those who don’t or can’t or won’t. You can call it whatever you want. But if private citizens did that, it would be called stealing. Just because the government has made laws and given the tax system involved and caring (yeah, right) names doesn’t change the fact that it’s stealing. ~
It’s ironic how many “conservatives” and “republicans” declare how they’ll fight to be sure America never becomes a socialist nation. Ironic because we’ve been a socialist nation for a long time. And those same Americans say how much they despise the people who say “you’ll own nothing and like it.” But that’s where we ARE. You and I effectively own nothing.
And, from what I can see, most people seem to like it.
For the record, I hate it.
Sometimes this world brings my bad side out.
I get so mad I could scream.
I wonder why can’t we all be friends;
Live and let live and share the dream.
So much depending on tomorrow.”
Heaven only knows where tomorrow goes.
Why must we beg and steal and borrow?
It’s a temporary fix; an empty bag of tricks. © 1989
(from my song, Never Neverland)
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Some people, even some Christians, say that what’s going on, in the Southeast, is God getting our attention. Or maybe that He’s sending down some wrath on haters. Have you heard anything like that? I even watched a young woman, in a video, say she was glad that area was hit so hard by Hurricane Helene.
Well, it’s total nonsense. And that kind of thinking doesn’t come from a good (or even somewhat decent) understanding of the Bible.
Hurricane Helene was not God’s wrath.And it wasn’t even “part of His plan.”
Despite what you might find all over the internet God is not in the business of doling out judgment with weather and other natural disasters. They’re just weather and NATURAL (not supernatural) disasters brought on by a broken and failing planet.
You know what else is broken and failing. Your country. You might agree with that. But you might disagree with me on how long it’s been broken. Because I know it broke over a hundred years ago. Yeah, our great-grandparents messed up, too. Very badly in fact. But don’t be too hard on ’em.
You and I have done (or not done) our fair share.
There are conspiracy theories that Hurricane Helene was manufactured or manipulated into existence. It didn’t just happen totally by random acts in nature. I won’t say that’s not true. And I won’t say it is. But it’s easy to see the aftermath is most definitely being manipulated.
My heartfelt hope is that there are enough Americans, who trust God, that will stand up to the increasingly tyrannical government. Especially when it denies help to its own citizens suffering from the devastation of Hurricane Helene. And the steals from those citizens to give to illegal aliens and foreign countries.
And I hope, as the “big games” come on this weekend, they’ll start to hear the…
Still Small VoiceGotta go make some noise
and go drinkin’ out with the boys.
And maybe I’ll watch TV.
It all really sounds good to me.
And where’d I put my guitar?
In the back of my muscle car.
I’m gonna rock some rock n roll…
Jam the music into my soul.
‘Cause I hear a voice all day, and it just won’t go away.
Ain’t no place I can hide from that still small voice inside
Cheerin’ for my football team on the high def satellite stream
Yellin’ when they mess up bad.
Got a runnin’ bet with my dad.
Saturdays in my yard, you can see I really do work hard.
And then I buzz to the video store
And rent maybe two or three more.
‘Cause I hear a voice all day, and it just won’t go away.
Ain’t no place I can hide from that still small voice inside
Still small voice inside me sayin’…
Boy you know you’re only playin’.
Still small voice inside me askin’…
What’s with all the pain you’re maskin’?
Still small voice inside me killin’…
Everything that once was thrillin’…
No, there ain’t no place to hide
From that still small voice inside.
© Tony Funderburk 2009
Now, maybe you don’t know me well enough to buy something from me, yet. Ok, let’s change that. Get to know more about me and my worldview. Join the growing body of believers who’ve signed up for the FunderFlash Journal. And bask in daily, delightful flashes of light from the power of God’s love.
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If you even think evil thoughts, you’ve sinned. How’s that for a cheerful start to your week? I had one main reason why it came up in me to say that. Because of the kinds of things that transpired over … Read the rest
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Another painful day of anxiety. And the effects, of it, range from silent crying to freaked-out scenes in public places to even assaults.
Day after painful day after day.Oh, maybe I should clarify. I’m not talkin’ about me. Good heavens, no! I trust that Jesus Christ loves me and that He’ll never leave me nor forsake me. So, I’m covered by the Creator and source of Life. No anxiety here in Funderland. Well, I might get a little anxious if the power goes out while I’m writing this. But even then, I have a backup.
The anxiety I described is posted thousands, maybe even millions, of times a day on social media. For example, I’m gonna copy and paste 6 posts off X (formerly Twitter). And there are so many more I couldn’t go through them all if I spent my whole day scrolling.
But here’s the 6 samples:~ I wonder if I’m the same. I had a kind of psychotic breakdown from anxiety and have been on drugs for eight years and feel worse not better
~ Some members of this generation will film themselves crying in the car over social anxiety. It’s all in their heads. Reopen the asylums.
~ Are we too soft on our kids? What’s happening with teen anxiety? Why are so many boys taking medication for ADHD?
~ I don’t like this. I feel like I’m overwhelming her with my anxiety, my unexplainable fear of her doing indecent things behind my back. And I’m fighting my own thoughts. She’s truly a good girl. And I’m the crazy one. I’m afraid that i might push her away with my neediness.
~ A man in the video posted a flag on a facebook post and the UK police showed up to arrest him for causing “gross offense with a menacing character which caused someone anxiety.”
~ Intelligence without courage leads to anxiety because you will spend your time overthinking instead of acting, taking risks, improving your life.
The 6th one mentioned an interesting cause.There were also lots of people who showed their concern that most anxiety happens because people are self-focused instead of nurturing a relationship with God. Yeah, I’ve mentioned that right here on my humble, little website, too.
And I found another hashtag post that simply stated a cure: Action Alleviates Anxiety
I like that one. A lot. In fact, it reminds me of a time, back in 1990, when a particularly tough migraine hit me. I can take a lot of pain. But that painful day was more challenging than usual. So, I wrote a song about it. And I used some indignantly angry personification. Your results might vary…
Mister PainHe’ll come and jump into your arms.
He’ll stay and try to steal your heart.
And he’ll push and make you say his name.
He’ll shove ’cause he makes force an art.
He’s tough. he turns you inside out.
He’s mean; he means to have it all.
And he’ll push and make you scream his name.
He’ll shove, but don’t you ever fall…
For Mister Pain…he can be seen through.
Mister Pain…you can be mean to
Mister Pain…leave me alone.
Oh, oh, oh Mister Pain…he can be lied to.
Mister Pain…least that’s what I’d do.
Mister Pain…leave me alone.
He’ll smile and stab you in the back.
He’ll pound when he’s inside your head.
And he’ll grab and pull you to your knees.
He’ll yell, but you yell back instead.
Yell back at…
Repeat chorus
(bridge) You’ve got a reason to live,
A reason to be in this place.
Take all the pain he can give,
And throw it right back in his face
Instrumental…repeat chorus to end
© 1990 Tony Funderburk
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I gotta share this story I just saw again today. Maybe you’ve seen some version of it. But it’s about what happened when a young cashier told an older woman “you should bring your grocery bags next time. Because plastic bags aren’t good for the environment.”
And the older woman shared some actual good for the environment facts.Here’s the story version I saw:
The woman apologized, “We didn’t have this green thing back in my day.”
The young clerk said, “Your generation didn’t care enough to save the environment for future generations.”
So, the woman gave him a firm stare and a hard grin and said…
“Back then, we returned milk bottles, soda bottles, and beer bottles. And the store sent them back to the plant to be washed sterilized and refilled. So they could use the same bottles over. They were recycled.
Grocery stores bagged our groceries in brown paper bags which we reused for numerous things. We walked upstairs because we didn’t have an escalator in every store and office building. And we walked to the grocery and didn’t climb into a 300-horsepower machine every time we had to go two blocks.
Back then, we washed the baby’s diapers. Because we didn’t have the throwaway kind. And we dried clothes on a line. Not in an energy-gobbling machine burning up 220 volts. Wind and solar power did dry our clothes back in our day. And kids got hand-me-down clothes from their brothers or sisters. Not always brand-new clothing.
Back then, we had one TV, or radio, in the house.Not a TV in every room. And the TV had a small screen the size of a handkerchief. Not an energy draining screen the size of the state of Montana. In the kitchen, we blended and stirred by hand. Because we didn’t have electric machines to do everything for us.
When we packaged a fragile item to send in the mail, we used wadded-up old newspapers to cushion it. Not Styrofoam or plastic bubble wrap.
And back then, we didn’t fire up an engine and burn gasoline just to cut the lawn. We used a push mower that ran on human power. We exercised by working. So we didn’t need to go to a health club to run on treadmills that operate on electricity.
And we drank from a fountain when we were thirsty instead of using a cup or a plastic bottle every time we had a drink of water. We refilled writing pens with ink instead of buying a new pen. And we replaced the razor blades with a razor instead of throwing away the whole razor just because the blade got dull.
Back then, people took a bus and kids rode their bikes instead of turning their moms into a 24-hour taxi service. We had one electrical outlet in a room. Not an entire bank of sockets to power a dozen appliances.
And we didn’t need a computerized gadget to receive a signal beamed from satellites 23,000 miles in space to find the nearest burger joint. But the current generation laments how wasteful we old folks were just because we didn’t have the green thing.”
The cashier stood there still and quiet as the old lady found her wallet to pay.Then, the lady turned to leave. But she stepped back and turned toward the cashier.
And she said “You have a world of knowledge in that little device in your hand. Pity you just use it to gossip, take pictures, and waste time. It would do you good to search a bit of history before you embarrass yourself like this again.
I love that story. I don’t know if I’m as old as the old lady. But I can relate to every example she shared. And, in fact, I can remember living in a house where the cooking was done entirely with a wood-burning stove. For a long time there was an ice box instead of a refrigerator. And we ate food that came from a chicken, cow, pig, or garden just outside the farmhouse doors.
But today younger people think THEY know what’s good for the environment because of the regurgitated nonsense they soak up in schools, from TV, and online.
That’s why I wrote, a long time ago:
We want to live in a fat-free environment, and
We want to make sure the ozone is intact.
And so we watch all those service commercials, and
It’s just so easy to sit back and react.
Is it just melodrama for me to feel this way?
I wonder. Is it just me? Or does it all sound so cliché?
Stay tuned…
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The post Good for the environment statement didn’t make a dent 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.
Why, in the name of godzilla, would you ever want to identify with a lower creature? Why would you ever, ever, ever want, or claim to have, a lizard brain? And how would that ever help you tune in to your limbic arc? Or help you maintain balance in your emotional vectoring? Not to mention (but I will) your energetic posture.
No reptilian brain is ever gonna benefit from a limbic arc.At least that’s my prediction. And I believe that goes for the paleomammalian and neomammalian brains, too.
Of course, this is only MY prediction. And it’s based on 000,000 years of study on the subject (YES, that number IS correct). But my prediction is a result of decades of study on why humans prefer creatures over the Creator. And, by the way, this dirty, broken world provides proof, every second in every day of where that worldview leads.
If you’ve read this far, give yourself a big pat on the back. Because I know, on the surface, it looks like I’ve read too many science fiction books or listened to too many wacko “influencers.” So, here’s why I brought this up today.
I discovered there’s an app that was created to help you with your limbic arc. I’m not going into detail on how an info boost goes into the zero point field and gets directly to YOU. Just know that it does. And that your brain is smarter than you think.
OK, just so you know, part of me prefers to make fun of the limbic arc app. And part of me is intrigued by how much study went into all the emotional vectoring, zero point fields interaction, and info boost talk. Because your body apparently DOES have a limbic system. And that system is more proof that you are fearfully and wonderfully made.
But to say you can tap into info boosts, with your phone (or even your computer) and reap the benefits of anti-aging is a stretch. In fact, every time I see ANY product that mentions anti-aging, alarms ring out in my brain. Because there is no such thing, in this life, as anti-aging. You live another day. And you’re another day older.
Nothing can change that.When you claim your product can help with allergies, digestion, and gut health, I already know that’s feasible. Because there are plenty of products out there with those proven benefits. And when you claim your product can help detox livers, strengthen hearts, or build up immune systems, same thing. I’ve experienced some of those products.
But when you start adding the benefits of anti-aging, “resolve,” and “prosperity,” my male-cattle-by-product radar starts beeping the alert bell. And when someone talks about the 2000 pieces of information your conscious brain processes every second, in the frontal cortex, BUT you leave out God, I question the integrity of your purpose.
Then, when you talk about the reticular activation system in the brain, and how the brain subconsciously processes over 400 million pieces of information, BUT you leave out God, that’s another YUGE red flag.
So many misinformed, mistaken, and misaligned people actually believe in a triune brain. But they can’t begin to imagine believing in a triune God. Yeah, the actually say things like certain parts of your brain are older than others. And they believe humans started with a brain stem which was supposed to be “responsible for primitive survival instincts such as aggression and fear.” And, apparently, that “evolved” into a more complex brain that included the limbic system.
Of course, if you’re just another reptile, then you’re just a work in progress. And that removes the right and wrong aspect. Because you’re just a work in progress. And a work in progress will have problems. Revisions will be needed. The system will require more development. And LOTS more time.
But won’t it be glorious when reptilian-brained humans reach version 100.0? I don’t know about you, but I can hardly wait.
Or how about this?How about looking deeper into your incredible brain. How about discovering all the untapped abilities you have in the exponentially more complex design that is YOU? And I know you’re exponentially more complex. Because you had an infinitely more complex Designer. By the way, He made you WAY more complex and intelligent than reptiles.
So, there’s THE Way to tap into whatever limbic arc you might have.
You were well-made with a wholly human brain.
So, don’t let your life go swirling down the drain
To a swamp of endless dread. Choose to raise your eyes instead
And behold the One who will remove your chain.
OK, when you tap into your limbic arc, be sure to use it to 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 Limbic arc, vector art, and a better place to start appeared first on Tony Funderburk - Writer for Kids.
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:
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Length: 164.8 kilometers (102.4 miles) long, making it the longest bridge in the world.
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Location: Between the cities of Danyang and Kunshan in Jiangsu Province, China.
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Construction Time: Started in 2006 and completed in 2010. The bridge officially opened in June 2011.
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Purpose: It was built to support high-speed rail travel, allowing trains to travel at speeds up to 300 km/h (186 mph).
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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.
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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.
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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.
“The State of Colorado Will Compensate Local Residents To Go Solar as Part of a Statewide Program (RPS).”
That was the headline to a short advertorial I recently read online. And I have a long history with Colorado, starting at birth, so it piqued my curiosity, of course.
But when “they” say “Go Solar,” it’s not a suggestion.No, they’re not looking to get you to consider solar. Uh-uh. It’s a mandate (which is not two guys going to dinner). Here’s what “they” (the state of Colorado) said about it.
The Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) is a regulatory mandate to increase the production of energy from renewable sources like solar throughout the state of Colorado. This new, statewide renewable electricity standard is given to every state as a goal to have a percentage of its power come from renewable energies like wind and solar.”
Funny (odd, not ha-ha) how they never include oil when they talk about renewable energies. But, as I’ve shared right here on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon, oil IS, and always has been, a renewable energy. And as bad as the mandate sounds, there’s something even more sinister at work in this so-called “initiative.”
For example, here’s more about their “goal” from that advertorial:
“With the goal of being 30% solar dependent by 2030, the state of Colorado has introduced big incentives and is pushing all local utility companies to compensate their customers to switch to solar through Energy Buy Back programs like Net Metering.
These new, state-wide solar incentives help Colorado homeowners take advantage of all federal, state, and local solar programs and rebates, and can completely eliminate their power bills with $0 upfront costs.”
When a state “has introduced big incentives,” that should be a red flag for you.Your first thought should be, “Hmm, where did the state get the money to introduce “big incentives?” And, your lightning-fast reply to yourself should be, “TAXES!” Because “free” is only a concept. Nothing is EVER free.
And any government that increases taxes on hard-working people in order to give “big incentives” to other people, is a tyrannical government.
Jesus wasn’t particularly fond of tax collectors. And He said a tax rate of 10% is tyrannical. I hope you don’t believe, even for a second, that your tax rate is 10%. Because it’s at least five times that much.
If you believe the government has your best interest at heart when they say “go solar,” then you’ve accepted their matrix. And I fear for your eternal soul. It might be in jeopardy of everlasting confusion and torment.
Because unjust taxation is stealing.
Those who implement it are revealing
Their contempt for what’s right. Pay attention, you might
Find an answer that’s much more appealing.
That’s all I’ll say on it for now. While you wait for my next sound-off, 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 Go solar right now, and they’ll show you how appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
When I was a kid, way back before gigantic TV screens (and even remote controls), the Wizard of Oz movie came on once a year. I don’t know exactly what my parents thought about the movie. But the kids sure got a kick out of it.
But who knew the Wizard of Oz had so many double meanings?I certainly didn’t. Plus, I just never gave it much more thought than how imaginative and colorful the movie was. And, unless you’re someone who thinks there’s hidden messages in everything, chances are you were the same way. The Wizard of Oz was just a movie that especially entertained kids. Right?
Well, I saw an article this morning that takes some of the main characters, in the Wizard of Oz, to a whole ‘nother level. And I haven’t spent any time trying to verify or nullify the validity of this article. I’m not going to either. Just thought it sounded interesting. And I thought you might, too. Here’s the article.
“The Straw Man represents that fictional ALL CAPS legal fiction, The PERSON. He wanted a brain but got a Certificate. The Birth Certificate.
The TIN (Taxpayer Identification Number) Man. He was a robotic avatar, who worked tirelessly until his body literally froze up and stopped functioning. The heartless and emotionless robot creature who worked himself to death. Because he had no heart or soul.
The Cowardly Lion was a bully, but was actually a true coward when someone stood up to him, like most bullies. He lacked true courage. And, in the end, the Wizard gave him an Official Recognition Award: Authority and Status.
The Wizard of Oz used magic, smoke, flames and holograms. But all of it were tricks and illusions to push fear and compliance to make people do what he commanded. The truth is the Wizard has NO real power and only used illusions to create false power and authority.
The Wicked Witch pushed fear through intimidation.She was after Toto. And she controlled the flying monkey police, the policy enforcers, and the mischievous demons. Those also represent the BAR Association who attack and control all the little people for the Great Crown Wizard, the crooked Bankers of Oz, obsessed with gold.
In the field of poppies, they were not REAL humans. So drugs had no effect on them. But Dorothy was drugged.
The Wizard of Oz was written at the time when Rockefeller and the Big Pharma began to take over medicine and education.
The Crown was actually the largest drug dealer. And, after their take-over of drug distribution in China, they began to expand all around the world.
Toto was what the Wicked Witch was really after. Toto in Latin means ‘in total.’ Toto exposed the Wizard of Oz and had no fear, despite being very small compared to the Great Wizard. So, no one noticed him.
Toto pulled the curtain on the Wizard and his magical scams. And that ‘curtain’ also signifies the End of an Act or scene! He pulled the curtain. And started barking until others paid attention, hypothetically giving everyone the ‘Red Pill.’
The curtain hid the corporate legal fiction and its false courts.
So, no matter how small your bark is, it can be heard!” -end of article-
OK, the best conspiracy theories are the ones that seem plausible.And knowing how the powers that be, in the world of arts and sciences, love to push their narrative du jour, this Wizard of Oz entrée isn’t so far-fetched. And here’s my poetic narrative of the day, for the kiddos:
Rainbow RidersRiding on a rainbow after all the raindrops fell,
Little rainbow riders didn’t hear the dinner bell.
So they kept on riding through the sky above the clouds,
High above the weather and away from all the crowds.
They could see the sailing ships and fishes in the sea.
They could see the pyramids and lands of mystery.
All the world was like a book with video and sound.
And they could turn the pages just by going ’round and ’round.
Little rainbow riders ride the rainbows till they fade.
Then, they land on earth and have a picnic in the shade.
They fill their bowls with berries and juicy melons too.
And fall asleep and dream of riding rainbows through the blue.
© 2013
Now, jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon. And be part of the growing band of believers who know life has Rhyme and Reason because God is Real.
Stay tuned,
The post Wizard of Oz might have had a cause appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
I’ve lived several decades on this little blue planet. And, as long as I can remember I’ve heard people talk about world peace. And I’ve heard and seen the world peace news on radio and TV. But the world seems to always snatch war from the jaws of peace every time. Have you noticed that?
During my time on Earth there have always been wars. We’ve been fortunate here in America. Because we haven’t seen actual war on our soil for a long time. But I figure it’s only a matter of time. Especially since hostile invaders cross our borders every day unvetted.
Anyway…
I don’t believe (although I wish) the world peace news is gonna change any time soon.And that’s because most people refuse to allow the peace of God to rule in their hearts. Probably because they don’t like how the peace of God isn’t based on arbitrary human emotions. It’s based on Truth and Life. And most people believe “your truth is yours” and “my truth is mine.” Same people who love to say “love is love.” Yeesh.
When you understand you had a beginning designed by the Creator of all things, you can begin to understand the importance real Truth and Life. And it’s basic. It’s fundamental. It’s simple. Truth exists because God exists. And God is the source of all life. You can know that you know. And that knowledge gives peace you can’t find anywhere else.
Unfortunately, most people don’t give a rip about that peace.They’d rather wander, ignorantly, through their life. Searching for answers based on their preconceived notions. Or, worse, their flawed learning process (translation: public schooling). And they choose to live esoteric, experiential lives. But that’s a dark, rocky road, with treacherous turns, that leads to the center of the Earth.
Yeah, I’m one of those wacky Christians who believes in right and wrong. And I take the road less travelled. The road that leads to the narrow gateway to Heaven. But I have at least one thing that no unbeliever will ever have. The world peace news that’s above and beyond human comprehension.
Good news is, it’s a free gift from God.
Ironically, in the world of advertising, the word “free” tends to increase sales and profits. But a free gift from God tends to cause eyes to glaze over and hearts to harden.
I’m sure glad that’s not you and me. Can I get an Amen?
Spoon-feed the apathy and watch it grow
Into the cold hard truth.
And if you never care, then you will never know.
It’s such a cold hard truth!
(from my song, “Cold Hard Truth”)
Jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon and be part of the growing band of believers who wanna show the world that life has Rhyme and Reason because God made us.
Stay tuned,
The post World peace news just in. Same as it’s ever been. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Your life design is unique. No one else who ever lived, is living now, or will ever live will have the same life as you. But your life is also no different from anybody else either. Here’s what I mean. And why it matters.
The DNA found in every cell of your body is incredibly complex and completely yours. The odds that it exists by chance are so small, you’d be more likely to win the powerball AND get struck by lightning on 3 birthdays in a row.
Yeah, your living, loving Creator gave you your life design.And He put the code inside you that makes sure no one else will be you. So, are you starting to realize how special you are? Great.
But here’s the other side of the coin…
You’re not so special, unique, or one-of-a-kind when it comes to how your life plays out.
Because you’ll experience awesome days and disappointing days. You’ll have to go through pain. And you’ll enjoy great pleasures. You will. And so will about seven billion other people. So did countless other people throughout history. It’s life.
But just because God gave you your life design doesn’t mean He designed how you’d live out your life.
That’s why you’ll find forks in roads where you’ll have to choose a direction, an option, a judgment call. Because, in your life design, God gave you a brain to use. A mind to store data and make options based on using that data well.
So, what’s the best way to make wise choices when you find one of the forks in the road? It depends on who you’re willing to trust for help. Do you think your best friends have the solution? How about mom? Or dad? Those can be good choices. But what if they’re not available when you’re faced with a situation that needs a “right away” answer?
Who can you turn to in those times?I suggest that same living, loving Creator I mentioned before.
Remember, He designed you. He formed you in your mother’s womb. And He installed that unique code inside you. He knows what makes you tick. And He’s available 24 hours a day. Every day of your life. And He’s as close as your breath. In fact, He’s closer. He’s the Spirit of Life. For you, me, and everyone who wants him to be. Without Him nobody would exist. And His word is how you get to know Him and discover His advice for those forks in your road.
God’s word says you can plan your way. And it says He will direct your steps. That means He won’t make your decisions for you. And He didn’t plan your life for you. But when you trust Him, He won’t lead you the wrong way. He’ll lead you the direct way. That means you’ll get where you need to be.
Here’s a challenge for you.
Give up self-trust today. Read God’s word even more to understand your life design. Especially Paul’s writings, from Romans through Philemon, in the New Testament. Because Paul’s message is the most relevant part of the Bible for what’s going on right now.
OK, here’s a rhyme to share with kids about their life design.
Your Story MattersInside a trillion tiny cells,
Where no one’s eyes can see,
A trillion times your story flies
On sparks of energy.
That energy is life itself,
The fire to light your way,
To write your story and to live
And love someone today.
Be thankful for your source of life
And bow or smile and nod
Because your story matters most,
When it reveals our God.
© 2013
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You can’t recycle away stupid. And today I’m gonna share a story you might’ve seen elsewhere. But it bears repeating. Because it shows the increased ignorance in younger people today. And it shows how, typically, the people who shout “don’t judge” the loudest are the most judgmental.
Anyway. Here’s the story I saw. Feel free to recycle away.A young cashier told an older woman that she should bring her grocery bags because plastic bags weren’t good for the environment.
The woman apologized to him, “We didn’t have this green thing back in my day.”
The young clerk said, “Your generation didn’t care enough to save our environment for future generations.”
So, the woman gave him a firm stare and a hard grin and said, “Back then, we returned milk bottles, soda bottles, and beer bottles. And the store sent them back to the plant to be washed sterilized and refilled. That way they could use the same bottles over. Then, they were recycled.
Grocery stores bagged our groceries in brown paper bags. And we reused them for numerous things. We walked upstairs because we didn’t have an escalator in every store and office building. And we walked to the grocery store. Plus, we didn’t climb into a 300-horsepower machine every time we had to go two blocks.
Back then, we washed the baby’s diapers. Because we didn’t have the throwaway kind. We dried clothes on a line in the sunshine. Not in an energy-gobbling machine burning up 220 volts. So, wind and solar power did dry our clothes back in our day. Kids got hand-me-down clothes from their brothers or sisters. Not always brand-new clothing.
And back then, we had one TV, or radio, in the house.Not a TV in every room. By the way, the TV had a small screen the size of a handkerchief. And not a screen the size of the state of Montana. In the kitchen, we blended and stirred by hand. Because we didn’t have electric machines to do everything for us.
When we packaged a fragile item to send in the mail, we used wadded-up old newspapers to cushion it. And not styrofoam or plastic bubble wrap.
Back then, we didn’t fire up an engine and burn gasoline just to cut the lawn. We used a push mower that ran on human power. And we exercised by working. So, we didn’t need to go to a health club to run on treadmills that operate on electricity.
We drank from a fountain when we were thirsty instead of using a cup or a plastic bottle every time we had a drink of water. And we refilled writing pens with ink instead of buying a new pen. We also replaced the razor blades with a razor instead of throwing away the whole razor just because the blade got dull.
Back then, people took a bus.And kids rode their bikes instead of turning their moms into a 24-hour taxi service. Usually, we had one electrical outlet in a room. Not an entire bank of sockets to power a dozen appliances. And we didn’t need a computerized gadget to receive a signal beamed from satellites 23,000 miles in space to find the nearest burger joint.
But the current generation laments how wasteful we old folks were just because we didn’t have “the green thing.”
The cashier stood there still and quiet as the old lady found her wallet to pay. Then lady turned to leave but stepped back and turned toward the cashier. She said “You have a world of knowledge in that little device in your hand. Pity you just use it to gossip, take pictures, and waste time. It would do you good to search a bit of history before you embarrass yourself like this again.
I think that’s a slam-dunk. How about you? Did your family recycle away. Or were you part of the use-it-up-and-get-a-new-one group? In my parents’ and grandparents’ house, it was pretty much as the older woman described.
By the way, I’m gonna recycle away my recommendation that you head to this link to Jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon. Make me send you some complimentary (and downright hospitable) stuff.
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I watched Brian Regan, one of the truly best comedians ever, do a bit about comparing anything you do to one of the astronauts who walked on the moon. It’s hilarious. When you get a chance, just do a search for Brian Regan man on the moon on YouTube.
Yeah. How does your best accomplishment compare to being a man on the moon?Funny stuff. And I love how Brian doesn’t resort to profanity. Plus, his facial expressions are top-notch. And that reminds me of the first time I ever heard of him.
Elgielene and I went to a movie, back in the late 90’s, and they showed comedy clips before the main show. One of those clips was of Brian talking about how he says “you too” at the wrong times. Look that bit up, too.
Anyway.
Let’s get back to the man on the moon.
But let’s don’t talk about some boring moon walk. That’s old hat, old news, and old school. Because of this press release:
Dateline: May 11, 2024 / 12:57 PM CDT – HARLINGEN, Texas – NASA announced it is aiming to build the first railway system on the moon. “We want to build the first lunar railway system, which will provide reliable, autonomous, and efficient payload transport on the Moon,” a post by Ethan Schaler, with the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory stated.
Whoa! People get ready! There’s a train a’comin’. That’s gonna leave The Impressions…I mean, an impression. Just imagine. A railway system on THE MOON.
OK, let’s set aside, for the time being, the fact that most cities don’t maintain potholes and bridges properly. And let’s focus on the positive side of this railway system. After all, it’s gonna be reliable, autonomous, and efficient payload transport. So, you won’t have to worry about any man on the Moon. He’ll have excellent transportation at his disposal.
And even better than that? It’s gonna have a cool acronym, aka: name. FLOAT. Ain’t that somethin’? And that stands for “Flexible Levitation on a Track.” Bam! Score! It’s a slam-dunk for the marketing department.
Sure, they’ve got some time to work on it since the “daily operations of a sustainable lunar base” will be in the 2030’s. Plus, they’ll use so-called “artificial intelligence,” which, in this case, will be “unpowered magnetic robots that levitate over a film track.” Hmm, I’m not sure how “unpowered” robots can do that.
But maybe that’s just me.Now, lest you think your tax dollars will be wasted on such looney, er, lunar activity, here’s something you should know. According to the press release: “The system will transport payloads around the base to and from landing zones and other outposts. The aim is to also transport lunar soil from mining locations to be used for extraction or construction.”
So, rest easy. They’re gonna move moon dirt around and maybe use it to build stuff. So, cool. Right? And obviously, the need is great for reliable “unpowered magnetic robots.” Because “FLOAT will operate autonomously in the dusty, inhospitable lunar environment with minimal site preparation.”
Well, I don’t know about you, but I hope I can hang in there long enough for a trip to that “dusty, inhospitable lunar environment.” If I don’t, there’s always Death Valley National Park. But that’s so twentieth century.
So be it. I’m connected to the twentieth century enough to have enough sense to know Earth is a good place to live and the moon isn’t even a good place to work. And that’s why any man on the moon references I’ll make will be confined to the world of the imagination.
Feel the cool night air
Dancing through your hair.
Laugh right out loud and then watch
Stars light up everywhere.
Look up with your arms open wide,
And you will Catch The Moon.
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I can predict people will still be living on Earth a thousand years from now. And that prediction includes their ability to drink water, eat real food, and breathe fresh air. Yep, that’s right. I can predict the future.
But, just because I can predict the future like that doesn’t mean much.No, I’m not a prediction savant. And I don’t play one on YouTube. So, just because I can predict the future with confidence still doesn’t mean I think I know it all (and I knew that’s what you were thinking about me just now).
Yeah, I’m what you might call a prognosticating magician. Oh yeah, you know it’s true. Given enough time that’s what you’d call me. At least once you discover some of my secrets of diversion.
Anyway…
Someone, long before me, shared some predictions about how long this planet could last. And, when you consider how accurate that source has been time after time after time, there’s no point in doubting the accuracy of any “future talk.”
So, I’ve shared what I’ve shared, up to this point, to point out how outrageous the end-of-civilization claims are. And in recent years, as they’ve attempted to predict a dystopian future, those claims have gotten increasingly stupid. And they reveal who the control freaks are. Good news is, they’re just clanging brass clowns and provisional, passing puppets. And, in the long run (eternity), their message will vaporize.
But they DO get to have their 15 minutes of fame right now. So, as they slither through their slogan-filled sleepwalk, we can focus on things that are pure and praiseworthy. Because…
We KnowChicken little, chicken little,
That old, darn sky just won’t fall.
But I guess that doesn’t matter
Long as they can fool us all
Into thinking that the climate
Is an enemy we’ve made
Just by breathing and by living.
It’s a heat wave masquerade.
But discerners don’t believe it.
Yes, we know where Truth is found.
And we know the sky will not fall
And the Earth will spin around
For as long as God determines.
He has made that point quite clear.
So, go spout your hoaxes elsewhere.
Earth will still be fine next year!
© 2023
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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
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My brother and I had a two-week booking in Erie, Pennsylvania. And we had just arrived. We unloaded our music gear and clothes and took them into the hotel. But I left a few boxes and assorted items in the back of my pickup. Because it was our first night in town. And we were tired from a long drive. Plus, the truck was parked inside the hotel’s “secure” lot for guests. So, no problem, right?
Yeah, no problem for a certain scumbag.The next morning I went down to my pickup to go somewhere for lunch. And, as I approached the pickup, I noticed the hatch lift to my topper was open. Not a good sign. When I went around to look, I found papers and all sorts of things torn and tossed all around. Some of my personal property, including a can with a substantial amount of coins, was gone. As you might guess, I was livid.
Side note: synonyms for livid (and they all apply): furious, angry, infuriated, irate, fuming, raging, seething, incensed, enraged, angered, beside oneself, wrathful, ireful, maddened, cross, annoyed, irritated, exasperated, indignant; informal mad, boiling, wild, seeing red, hot under the collar, up in arms, foaming at the mouth, on the warpath, steamed up
If you’ve never felt violated like that, consider yourself fortunate. When someone crosses the line of your property, even if it’s in the back of your car or pickup, that’s already a violation. But when they steal what you’ve worked hard for, that’s an exponential increase to the violation.
And, in my case, it was even worse than that.Because, of course, nothing was ever recovered. And my insurance wouldn’t cover it because they said I hadn’t properly protected my property. So, property lost. Lividity vented. And lesson learned.
But one of the reasons I brought this up is because of how many Americans don’t seem to even feel the slightest bit violated by criminals crossing our property lines. And so many Americans aren’t livid about how much of our money is stolen, by our own government, to give to those criminals. It’s demented, despicable, and devoid of intelligence.
Trillions of dollars in debt. And yet, somehow, politicians find a way to take YOUR money and give it to criminals. Yes, criminals. Every single person who crosses property lines (aka: the border) without going through the gate, is a criminal.
I don’t care if it’s a family of four who want “a better life.” And I don’t care if it’s a guy who “just wants to get a better job so he can take care of his family.” When you enter someone’s property without an invitation, you ARE a criminal!
But no problem. Right? Or, should I say, “no problemo?” It’s just people moving from one place to another. Hey, I’ve done that a lot of times. And each one of those times was to set up something better.
So, what makes me think I can move around to different parts of the world and others can’t? Nothing. I never said that. But the difference is, I didn’t cross somebody’s property lines illegally. And I didn’t steal money from other people in order to make my move.
Yes, I’m better off than a lot of people in the world.Because I was born into a country where I was at least free enough to pursue my dreams and goals. But even if I wanted to go live somewhere else in the world, I’d be sure to follow their rules for entry and citizenship. As long as they didn’t violate basic human rights to life and liberty, no problem.
So, there you have it. From feeling violated in Erie, Pennsylvania to an eerie violation of our national sovereignty. Do I know how to rant or what?!
Speaking of ranting. Here are the lyrics to a song I wrote after the incident in Erie.
Never NeverlandSometimes this world brings my bad side out.
I get so mad I could scream!
I wonder why can’t we all be friends.
Live and let live and share the dream.
So much depending on tomorrow.
Heaven only knows where tomorrow goes.
Why must we beg and steal and borrow?
A temporary fix; an empty bag of tricks.
And it’s just like the drifting of the sand,
Living in Never Neverland.
Where the mind is always quicker than the hand,
Living in Never Neverland.
Sometimes I need just to air things out.
Let the sun shine on my face.
Then maybe I’ll keep emotions in check.
And I’ll still trust the human race.
So much at stake; so much to lose now.
Can’t we understand and open up our hands?
There’s so much more we could be doing,
If we would only do what we’re intended to.
Repeat chorus…inst…ad lib chorus to end
© 1989 Tony Funderburk
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Forgiveness without repentance is selfish and unwise.
How’s that for an opener?
But I only said it because it’s true.
Forgiveness without repentance kills dogs. Not just people.Yeah, if you won’t apply the proper way to forgive, to and for you, won’t you at least save the little puppies. And before you think I’ve gone completely bonkers, let me show you an example of how this claim is true. But not just any old random example. No, this actually happened to some people Elgielene and I know.
Yesterday, she got a text message from a friend who basically said something like, “Call me when you can. Something tragic has happened.”
Naturally, as you might imagine, that sparked our curiosity. And we hoped it wouldn’t be a message this friend’s husband had died. Or something awful like that.
And the reason our first guess went to the friend’s husband is because he works for the sheriff’s department in the county where he lives. So, it wouldn’t be much of a stretch to think something awful might’ve happened to him in the line of duty.
As it turns out, you could say something DID happen to him in the line of duty.But not his typical county sheriff’s duty.
No, he simply took the family dog, a cute little rescue dog named Lily, out for her morning constitutional. As he walked her down the street, he noticed a guy far down the block eyeballing him in a strange way. Of course, being in the police force, he’s more tuned in to strange behavior than most. But he kept moving along, slowly, as Lily sniffed and did her doggie stuff.
Suddenly, the guy down the block jumped into his car, peeled out of the driveway, turned in the direction of our friend and his dog, and peeled out again. He flew by the first time. But he screeched to a stop at the other end of the block, did a loud turn around, and flew by our friend and his dog again.
Of course, now our friend was on full alert. But, in situations as unpredictable as that, it’s not clear what to prepare for or avoid. Sure enough, the wackadoo spun his car around and headed right back at our friend and little Lily one more time.
But this time, the creep turned his car right at them. And our friend jumped off the sidewalk into a wooden fence, while, at the same time, trying to grab Lily. Unfortunately the driver was upon them so fast he scraped across our friend’s left arm and leg. And the force of that impact, which caused some serious injuries to our friend, knocked off the creep’s mirror. But worse than that, Lily was literally flattened.
This all took place a couple of weeks ago.But the horrible vehicular murder attempt was only the beginning of our friends’ troubles. Because, now, they’re discovering, firsthand, how America no longer has a justice system. Now, it’s JUST A SYSTEM.
And they’re mired in a legal battle to punish a guy who has already been “forgiven” of several previous devious deeds. Yep. Those forgiven deeds, which required no repentance or remorse from the perpetrator, directly led to our friends’ dead dog. You can see it another way, if you choose to, but only if you’re comfortable with being wrong.
Yes, there are so-called “lawyers” working to get the scumbag driver cleared of all charges.
Uh-huh. They’re working to see that he’s not punished. And unpunished crimes ALWAYS lead to more criminals.
Our “open” border with Mexico is a daily illustration of that fact. But, no big deal right? Who cares?
OK, there are a lot of people who would say I talk a mean streak about the problems, but I don’t offer viable solutions. Of course, those are people who never read or hear solutions I’ve written and spoken about. But, to them, I offer this first “step in the right direction.” Whatever we’ve been doing for 50 years (and longer), stop doing THAT.
Yeah. Just stop what we’ve been doing. Because it has NOT worked. And it has zero hope of success. Because you can’t layer law after law after law and expect people to keep the law. Human history proves that.
Circumstances, laws, money, and policies don’t change you.
You only change when your heart of hearts changes. And it can only change when you let the one who created your heart be your guiding Light.
Every day you’re closer to the time when you won’t have the freedom to choose anymore. And this isn’t like a marketing ploy of scarcity. It’s a fact. You’re gonna reach the end of your days, here on Earth. And then you’ll be somewhere else. That location depends on whether you ask for forgiveness or not. But, remember, you can’t try to get forgiveness without repentance.
After all, if you’re not sorry for hurting yourself and others, why should anyone else be sorry for you?
Think about what I’ve shared with you as you walk your dog today. Or as you sit in your favorite sidewalk café enjoying your favorite treat. Or even as you’re shopping at the local farmer’s market. Whatever you might be doing today, it might be the last day you’ll be doing it. Our friends’ story is an example of how quickly everything can change. So, that’s why I said this in a song…
Give Me The LightWell, the light shines, and it’s coming from above.
I can’t ignore it because I know deep down it’s Love,
And it shows me that the time is close at hand,
And I’m beginning to think I might just understand.
I’ve waited so long for the perfect time and place,
And made a whole lot of mistakes I can’t erase.
Destined to live in darkness I supposed,
But you can’t see the Light when your eyes are closed.
So gimme the Light oh give me the Light of Your Love.
Gimme the Light. I wanna see how good it can be.
Gimme the Light oh give me the Light of Your Love.
And gimme the Light that truly sets this blind man free.
Well, I daydream, and I do my best to fly,
But something holds me; it doesn’t matter how I try.
Oh, but someday, when You say the time is right,
I know I’ll fly up and live forever in Your light.
repeat bridge & chorus…inst…repeat chorus twice
© 1984-1998 Tony Funderburk
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Before I get into what a mess you are, let me first say Happy Super Tuesday. I have no clue what that means. But apparently there’s some holiday being celebrated, and that’s what they call it. Now, where was I? Oh yeah. You’re a mess. I know you are. Beyond a shadow of a doubt. And I know it because it’s a human condition. Bad choices. And a strong tendency toward selfishness. Trouble is, there’s no cure for it. Because, as a whole, humans don’t learn from their mistakes. We don’t know our history. So, we’re probably doomed to repeat it.
So, here are 3 ways I know this beyond a shadow of a doubt.1. Truth: Control freaks cast shadows on the truth. Truth is their mortal enemy. So they have to pound out lies, with consistent resolve, until the truth becomes nothing more than a cloudy concept. Truth becomes “whatever you make of it.” Or whatever is “right in their own minds.” Nazis believed all you need to do to twist a lie into the truth is tell one that’s “big enough and keep repeating it, people will eventually become to believe it.” Of course, that happens all around you, everywhere, every day. All you gotta do is pay attention.
2. Morality: This is another area under constant attack by those who want to justify their behavior. When you reduce right and wrong to whatever is “right in their own minds,” you produce a culture where anything goes. Then everything goes…out the window. Who knows where that might lead? You might even find adults killing babies. Well, at least that couldn’t happen here in America. Right? So, let’s don’t think about that. Let’s go shopping.
3. Property: Once people realized they could vote the money away from the wealthy and into their own pockets, then the proverbial (and political) genie was out of the bottle. So, politicians run for office (and win) using promises based on redistribution of wealth. It’s not just wrong. It’s evil. Because it destroys lives. But who cares, right? It’s just the way things are. The status quo. I’m gonna get mine as long as the gettin’s good. Ok, where do we sign up?
Well, here’s what I think about it. Beyond a shadow of a doubt…
Nothin’s Sacred AnymoreTake the truth and lock it up, and throw away the key
Winds of change are blowing foul; a dance with destiny
Blur the face of love and sex and say it’s all OK
Tell the child it’s just a choice and melt her soul away
Nothin’s sacred anymore.
Can’t we learn from mistakes when they cut to the core.
Nothin’s sacred anymore.
And should we be surprised since we’ve opened that dark, wide door?
Nothin’s sacred anymore.
Cast your vote for social growth and then say yes to law
Keep the peace, divide the wealth; the vision Adolph saw
Hedge the bets and ride the fence; the middle road’s secure
Then one day you’re head to head with all you must endure
Nothin’s sacred anymore.
Can’t we learn from mistakes when they cut to the core.
Nothin’s sacred anymore.
And should we be surprised since we’ve opened that dark, wide door?
Nothin’s sacred anymore.
More! More space and time. More would be sublime.
Someone else can pay long as I get mine today.
Ain’t nothin’ sacred anymore.
© 2002
(lyrics and song found in one of my songbook journals on Amazon)
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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.
I wonder how many teenagers realize they’re walking, ticking timebombs. Have they seen the headline, “An Abortion Ban Made Them Teen Parents.” And do they know they could save themselves just by moving to another state? Because, for now, they might be safe in about 41 states.
But who knows when an abortion ban might transform those states, too?Yeah, it could be just a matter of time before killing babies will be against the law in every state. And think of the dehumanizing and forced effect that’s gonna have on countless teens. Imagine how many of them will be made into “teen parents” against their own wills.
And there’s the rub. You and I can only imagine.
Because even those so-called abortion bans in the 9 (or so) states don’t actually ban abortions.
Uh-huh. That wasn’t a typo. None of those 9 states ban abortions. NONE.
And if you’re about to take issue with me, be sure you read your state’s so-called abortion ban “law.” You WILL find words like after, except, exception, until, health of the mother, life of the mother, risk, and without consent. Those are wiggle room words.
In Missouri, their governor tweeted on X (the platform formerly known as Twitter) that their state was the first in the nation to “effectively end abortions.” But when you look at the fine print in the legislation he signed, you find an interesting phrase:
“NOW, THEREFORE, I, MICHAEL L. PARSON, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF MISSOURI, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the State of Missouri, specifically Section 188.017, RSMo, do hereby notify the Revisor of Statutes that it is reasonably probable that Section 188.017, RSMo will be upheld by the courts as constitutional. Further, in accordance with Dobbs, Section 188.017, RSMo is hereby effective as of the date of this order.”
I found more wiggle room words.Maybe I’m just the annoying kind of “words mean things” guy. But I see a section there where it says it’s “reasonably probable” that Section 188.017 RSMo will “be upheld by the courts as constitutional.”
I didn’t say it must be held up. Or will be held up. It said it’s reasonably probable.
But what if members of the legal community aren’t feeling reasonable?
Oh well, at least it made a good sound bite and headline to say the state has an abortion ban.
And I understand you’d rather I’d shut up about it. This topic isn’t nearly as fun and interesting as music history. Or the healing power of music. Or tales of imagination written into colorful poetry. Yeah, compared to those subjects, abortion is the Stephen King novel of topics.
But here’s the thing.
As I take the time to share anything and everything else I share, tiny and defenseless human beings are torn to pieces. With the consent of their very own parents. And most people on the planet couldn’t care less. Because since they can’t see the dastardly deeds, maybe none of it’s really happening.
Trouble is, it’s really happening. And the only thing that can stop the vast majority of it (because nobody can stop it all) is an abortion ban with NO exceptions.
Just like the end of slavery required the abolition of it, so will the end of abortion.
They didn’t make exceptions to slavery, thanks to abolitionists.And that’s how it will have to be with abortion. Regardless of how many “feminists” scream out that it’s “my body, my choice.” Because it’s not their bodies being torn to bits and discarded into trash bins or sold for parts to the highest bidders.
So, the messy truth needs to be told. And an abortion ban will greatly reduce that mess.
And not everybody wants to lose friends and followers and talk about that.
But I’ve done it. And I count all that kind of loss as gain, even if it’s not fun. I hope you do, too.
You can’t run away from real truth.
And every word of truth is a knife.
A captivating voice might pigeonhole your choice,
Cut free…and choose life.
Before you go, share this link with everybody you know. Tell ’em to jump on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon AND get some music and other fun stuff, for Fa-Ree.
Stay tuned,
The post Abortion ban is certainly NOT in the can appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
There’s no such thing as actual transgender. Sure, you can make up words and apply whatever touchy feely definitions you devise in your own mind. But just saying it doesn’t make it true. You can identify. But it doesn’t change … Read the rest
The post No such thing as transgender and one day you’ll return to sender appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
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.
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.
Most every young person has them. Well, I say that as someone who was once a young person who had them. But when I was a young person, the world didn’t seem nearly as hopeless. So, it wasn’t difficult to … Read the rest
The post Future dreams that fall apart at the seams appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Poodle skirts. Roller skates. Hula hoops. What do they have in common? They were each the latest craze, at some point, back in the 1950’s. Then, you had The Twist, The Pony, and even the Monster Mash. Those were the … Read the rest
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I don’t know why it is. But fat, old guys seem to be the typical Harley riders. And before you look for the page turn or delete button, I’m not gonna ramble on about fat, old guys on motorcycles. I’m … Read the rest
The post Fat old guys out in front of your eyes appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Alabama is one of those states in the so-called Bible Belt. So, it might surprise you to hear that even in small towns, in Alabama, police have to deal with perverts. Yeah, even in public shopping areas. In broad daylight … Read the rest
The post Small towns share the frowns appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
You have a right to defend your livelihood. And this will come as a surprise to way too many people these days. But your right to do that doesn’t come from the government or the constitution. Nope. Rights don’t come … Read the rest
The post Defend your livelihood and here’s why we should 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
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Today, I found out, once again, how fragile the hearts and minds of most people are. And it happened with some censored words. And, just in case you think Elon Musk is one of the good guys because he allowed … Read the rest
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It’s an event where business owners and entrepreneurs go to “spot trends, build partnerships, or secure brand rights for your products.” It’s the Licensing Expo. And it was held in Las Vegas this year. A 60 year old woman, you … Read the rest
The post Beautiful people can also see we should live eternally appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Ideas have consequences. And, naturally, that statement implies both the positive and negative. And I’m gonna share an example of bad consequences for bad ideas. This is a post I found on a social media platform where the discussion was … Read the rest
The post Bad ideas and consequences lead to no more picket fences appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Do a Google search for “streets of San Francisco,” and you’ll probably only get results that point to the TV show from back in the 1970’s. And some of those results are links to videos of the opening credits from … Read the rest
The post Streets of San Francisco are as healthy as Crisco appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Why are there so many people hell-bent on the destruction and torment of other people? It’s like the world is literally filling up with slime from Satan’s cup. And you don’t even have to watch the “six o’clock news” to … Read the rest
The post Bag of tricks for how they get their kicks appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Right up front, I gotta say it. And I know this is anathema to the enlightened, evolutionary worldview. But here it is. There’s no such thing as fossil fuel. Bam! I just attacked the whole fossils evolution connection. And, no, … Read the rest
The post Fossils evolution and an auto revolution 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.
There’s no shortage of animal stories all over social media. Video clips of furry creatures doing all sorts of cute and even compassionate-looking things. And when I say “all over social media,” I mean all over. Even a so-called business-focused … Read the rest
The post Animal stories can be cute. But humans are still mute. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
I watched a couple of awful videos today. Somebody shared them on social media. More pieces of evidence that clearly show how the drugs don’t work. Well, unless the goal was to create more whacked-out freakazoids. And thieves and thugs. … Read the rest
The post The drugs don’t work. Did you see that jerk? appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
You ALWAYS have a third choice. Despite what 99% of movies, TV shows, and songs would have you believe, you do. When you’re told you only have two choices, take a little time to think that through. Very often, the … Read the rest
The post Third choice and your voice is a Rolls Royce appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
The history of Play Dough (also known as Play Doh) is interesting. Because it actually started out as a product to help people clean the wallpaper in their homes. Wait. Play Dough cleaned walls? Huh? Yeah, a guy named Cleo … Read the rest
The post Play dough and the big no-no appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
If you’re old enough to remember back to the 60’s, or maybe even 50’s, you know full well that life is short. Right? I mean, how could it already have been this many years since then? If your memory goes … Read the rest
The post Life is short. Now, what’s your retort? appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
I love how I can charge up my mobile devices and take them with me and use them for hours without even plugging in. Because it would be awful if I had to take a gas-powered generator with me everywhere. … Read the rest
The post Crude oil advantages with no ego bandages 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.
Habitual liars just make up stuff as they go along. I think we can all agree on that. Right? But what we might not agree on are the lies. Most everyone who subscribes to my blog, emails, Rhyme and Reason … Read the rest
The post Make up stuff if you’re foolish enough appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
When I was a mere lad, back in the ol’ country (America, pre-lamebrainian era), the only people who had tattoos were some servicemen and hardcore bar rats. And you just didn’t see the average Joe or Jane with that “unspeakable” … Read the rest
The post Everlasting art engraved on your heart appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
T shirt ideas have consequences. Especially if “people are offended” by what the shirt says. And I mention this because of a video someone shared on a social media channel. The short description, for the video, said, “I automatically assumed … Read the rest
The post T shirt ideas spur what Christians do incur appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Way, way back in time, Elgielene put some kinetic energy on my wrist. And that’s my poet brain way of saying she bought me a Seiko Kinetic watch. If you’ve never seen one or had one, check ’em out. They’re … Read the rest
The post Kinetic energy on my wrist and how long I will exist appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
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.
It’s a mean world. Every day you see and experience the cold, hard truth in this world. Whether you like it or not. And whether you prefer to think positive or be negative. Doesn’t matter if you’re a glass-is-half-full person … Read the rest
The post New normal is crazy so we can’t be lazy appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
According to search engine “suggestions,” a very popular search term is “Kanye West net worth.” And sadly, for the hip-hop rapper, it’s way less than it was. Poor dude is only worth about $400 million now. But don’t worry. Because … Read the rest
The post Kanye West net worth is blank without new birth appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
95 years ago, today, October 6, a quirky little guy said, “”Wait a minute, wait a minute, you ain’t heard nothing yet.” And the crowd went wild. You probably already know I’m talking about Al Jolson. And you probably already … Read the rest
The post Wait a minute, wait a minute, there’s something new in it. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
I’m happy to celebrate when a church moves in the direction of rightly dividing the word of truth. But you almost never see that anymore. In fact, most establishments calling themselves churches move in the opposite direction. Sometimes the move … Read the rest
The post Church moves and a singer reproves appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Music is an aural expression of life. From babies in the womb to the silver-haired citizens, music is an amazingly comforting language. I’ve shared a lot of information about the health benefits of music and sound. But it doesn’t benefit … Read the rest
The post Aural expression of life and love to help you rise above appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Yeah, it’s an uncomfortable conversation to have. The one about what’s happening behind closed doors and tall walls. Doors and walls that close behind foolish people going in…and behind damaged people coming out. Some people have spent much of their … Read the rest
The post Uncomfortable conversation with a quickly fading nation appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
I think Huey Lewis and the News sang it best, back in the 80’s, when they sang “I say cool is a rule, but sometimes, bad is bad.” What? You don’t remember that song? Then, move along. Because you’re probably … Read the rest
The post Bad is bad when it’s this sad fad appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Ah, yes. Diversity, equity, and unabashed tolerance. That’s what you get when you mix a whole lotta different kinds of people together in one place. Right? And you just better brace yourself for gobs of group hugs, too. Because peace, … Read the rest
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If you were a “climate change” advocate, or some sort of “global warming” proponent, what would be the best way to express your beliefs? Show of hands? OK, Susie. What do you think the answer is? “Um, buy a half … Read the rest
The post Express your beliefs like the super-rich chiefs appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
I had my eyes examined (no, not my head) a couple of weeks ago. And this week I got my new glasses. Plus, this is my 2020th post here on TonyFunderburk.com. So, those two things, and a couple of other … Read the rest
The post Hindsight is 20 20 for some but not for plenty appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Life. Love. And freedom. Hope. Bread. And water. Joy. And a rock-solid promise. Yeah, I’ve definitely got something to sing about. And when I say “sing,” that’s how I cheer. Because, for me, singing is the best form of celebration. … Read the rest
The post Something to sing about in this era of doubt appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
OK, this is a manly post. So, women are only allowed as long as they intend to use the information to help the men in their lives. Are we clear? Good. Let’s proceed… As I was searching for some clothes, … Read the rest
The post Manly dude’s attitudes and platitudes appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Different people don’t tend to get along so well. Have you noticed that? And history books denote sections of time, most often, using wars as markers. And almost all of those wars were between different peoples. Although it could be … Read the rest
The post Issues of society remain the same variety appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
This comes from back in the days of knights and lords and ladies. Apparently it was customary for a knight to wear the name of a certain lady during a tournament. And it was typically the lady he loved…or would … Read the rest
The post Wear your heart on your sleeve and hate what I believe appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Ever since the Donald left the white house, some guy named Joe has been there. And he’s doin’ a good job. A mighty good job. So, I just wanted to touch base with you and let in on the latest … Read the rest
The post Some guy named Joe is puttin’ on a good show appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Mountain goats. Awesome animals that live high in the mountains most of the time. Mountain Goats…a stupid band from North Carolina who probably wouldn’t know truth if it zapped through their instruments, traveled up their fingers, and stimulated whatever brain … Read the rest
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“Alright. We ain’t talkin’ no politics or religion around here. See? And I better not catch you playin’ the stool pigeon, or you’ll be wearin’ a pine overcoat. See?” Yeah, those gangsters, from the movies of the 30’s and 40’s … Read the rest
The post No politics or religion makes you a silly pigeon appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Hate is push-button easy these days. And the mask mandate, that somebody named Polis living in the governor’s mansion in Colorado keeps extending, is proof of this. First, here’s why a mask mandate is a form of hate. If you … Read the rest
The post Mask mandate, let’s be straight, is so full of hate appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Freedom is a right. That should be self-evident (as somebody once wrote). But apparently, for a lot of knuckleheads, that information just can’t make it past the knuckles in those heads. So, they toss freedoms out just like they toss … Read the rest
The post Freedom is a right, but not without a fight appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Horse songs tend to have catchy rhythms. I guess it’s because of the hoofbeats. rimshot Thanks folks. I’ll be here all week. Be sure to tip your bartender and waitresses. Yes, I said waitresses. Don’t git yer stirrups all tangled … Read the rest
The post Horse songs are for all you hop-alongs appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Opinions count. Not all of them, of course. But the ones that are tantamount to truth…those count. And, sadly, there are fewer and fewer of those kinds. Because there’s an assault on truth the likes of which America has never … Read the rest
The post Opinions count when they’re tantamount appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Even in this ridiculous and weird time in history, dreams come true. Not all. But enough of them that it still counts when somebody says “if you work hard, you can still achieve your dreams.” But right now you might … Read the rest
The post Dreams come true. At least they sometimes do. appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
I remember studying America’s founding documents when I was in school way back in the twentieth century. And I remember something called the “Bill of Rights.” It must’ve been a big deal. Because teachers and politicians always talked about the … Read the rest
The post Freedom to assemble – not to tremble appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Check out this list of synonyms. Publicity, advertising, promotion, marketing, puff, puffery, propaganda, exposure; boost, push, fanfare, buildup; informal plug, plugging, razzmatazz, and ballyhoo. And I shared them with you because they’re all synonymous with moronic politicians. Because they want you … Read the rest
The post Believe the hype if you’re the gullible type appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
This Magic Moment, a song written by Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman, was a big hit for Ben E. King and the Drifters back in 1960. And I’ll bet they had no idea they actually created one of the billions … Read the rest
The post Micro moments here and now can change your woes to wow appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
I enjoy watching Ray Comfort, from Living Waters, talk to people he meets “on the street.” Because he has an easy-going way of disarming them in order to share God’s love. He lives in California. But he’s originally from Australia. … Read the rest
The post Living Waters flow where they’re allowed to go appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Anyone who knows me knows I’ve always been a big admirer of women. I appreciate ’em so much, in fact, that I married one 31 years ago. But, as usual, women are at the heart of a Yuge problem. And … Read the rest
The post Gender inclusive is so gender intrusive appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
Some time, around the middle decades of the twentieth century, a 16 year old girl discovered she was pregnant. Of course, she knew how it happened. And this was at a time in American history when young people were supposed … Read the rest
The post Do the right thing and stay on the upswing appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
I was a fan of Chicago (the band, not the city) when I was in high school. And for years after. I’m not sure what they’ve done in recent years. But some of that early stuff with horns, strings, double … Read the rest
The post Search engines serve you lies that tend to jeopardize appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
OK, kids. Gather ’round. Because I’m gonna tell you a story that’s true, even though it sounds like a fairy tale. “Once upon a time, when I was a kid, my whole family would sit down in the same room … Read the rest
The post Away we go because of who we know appeared first on Tony Funderburk.
During this past week I read lost of news stories and social media posts about the way our American presidential election has progressed. Or should I say regressed? And it struck me how many people, on both sides, were surprised … Read the rest
The post You should have known what history has shown appeared first on Tony Funderburk.