The TRUTH - for Christian conservative parents - Page 34 of 163

Posted on June 16, 2023 by TonyJuly 2, 2023

I’ve talked about it before. But something popped up, online, this morning, that brought back a good and sad memory. And it’s about sticks. But not just any kind. I’m talkin’ about Pick Up Sticks. A game that used to be popular with kids before technology took the soul out of games.

Anyway…

Back to the memory.

My brother and I used to ride the Santa Fe Big Chief twice a year. And we didn’t live in Santa Fe. And there was no Indian giving us piggyback rides either. No, it was a train ride. From Houston, Texas to Kansas City, Missouri in the first week of June. And from Kansas City back to Houston at the end of August.

But what does that have to do with Pick Up Sticks?

Well, aren’t you the impatient one. I was just getting to that.

We took those train rides, twice a year, because my parents divorced when my brother and I were young. And they moved far apart. Mom went to Missouri and then Kansas. Dad went to Texas. But they worked out terms for us to see both of them for long periods of time. Not just every other weekend.

So, every year, at the end of nine months in school, my brother and I were put on the Big Chief and sent off to Union Station in K.C. And then we’d spend the summer with Mom.

Toward the end of summer, she’d take us to get some new school clothes. And most of the time she’d also get us something to occupy our minds and time during the 19 hour train trip. Usually it was some sort of road trip game. And one year she bought us a tube of Pick Up Sticks.

They looked like large, multi-colored toothpicks. And here’s how you play. You sorta just empty the sticks out the tube and let them fall into a pile. Then, the object is to pick up a stick without making any other sticks fall out of place. Once you get your first stick, you can also use it to be more precise in the movements. And the winner is the one with the highest points based on the color of the sticks.

Keep in mind, we played that game on a moving train.

So, picking up the sticks without them rolling out of place wasn’t as easy as you might think. We had fun. And the game DID help to pass the time. But on a sad note (well, for my brother), he was never able to beat me. At least, that’s how I recall it. He might remember it differently. But he was the younger brother, so…nope.

As you can see, it’s a fond memory for me. But it’s also sad. Because it shows some of the tough stuff kids have to go through when husbands and wives ignore God’s recommendations for marriage. And, even though I’ve always managed to put a positive spin on it, my parents’ divorce showed the consequences of selfishness.

But enough of the downer stuff. Ten years ago, I shared a poem, for kids, about the wonder of old-fashioned games. Here it is again.

Tiddlywinks and Pick Up Sticks

Tiddlywinks and pick up sticks
And rainbows and balloons…
Maybe add some marbles, too,
And silly, happy tunes.
Funtime in the bright sunshine
To while the hours away…
Oh, and what I wouldn’t give
To be a kid today.
I’d set up the checkerboard
And play a game or two…
Then go grab my bag of jacks
And see how well I’d do.
Maybe I’d go find my friends,
And we could fly a kite
Tied onto our fishing pole…
We’d send it out of sight.
Then we’d reel it in again
And go and get our bikes…
And we’d ride to secret lands
‘Cross levees and ‘cross dikes.
After that I’d say goodbye
And we’d all go our ways.
Yes, I guess that’s just how my
Imagination plays.

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Posted on June 15, 2023 by TonyJuly 2, 2023

Tucson, Arizona. Central New Mexico. Music. Moonlight. Dan Fogelberg. Storytelling. All parts of “the road” from a long time ago. And, early this morning, I thought about an incredible, singular experience I had during a full moon drive. Strangely enough, it was a motion-sensor light that triggered that full moon memory.

Huh? A motion-sensor light and a full moon drive?

Yeah, I got out of bed and started to get dressed in the dark. Just as I always do. Because a beautiful wife should have all the beauty sleep she can get. So, flipping on the overhead light would just be rude and uncalled for. And I’m nothing if not considerate and called for.

Anyway…

As I dressed, the motion-sensor light in back of the house suddenly lit up and seeped through the window blinds. It wasn’t as bright as the overhead bedroom light would have been. But it definitely gave the room a sort of moonlit glow. And I peeked out the window to be sure there were no prowlers or ferocious animals I’d have to slay. No intruders in sight. Probably just a bird flying by that triggered the light.

So, I finished dressing and went to the kitchen to brew some wake up elixir, as I always do. And as I measured out the dark-roasted coffee beans, and drew the pure water from our gravity filter, I kept thinking of how that fluorescent light reminded me of that full moon drive, years ago.

The memory of the wavy road, in the wee winter hours, reminded me of when I first learned about metaphors and similes in school. My English composition book shared examples of each. And one of the examples of a metaphor was “the road was a ribbon of light.” I remember thinking, “Hey, I’m on that road all these years later.”

Back to the drive.

Dan Fogelberg released his eighth album, Windows and Walls, in 1984 (the year of my full moon drive). And one song was called “Tucson Arizona (Gazette). He said he wrote the song based on a story he read in that paper. And the song is a little over eight and half minutes long. But if you like Spanish-sounding guitar riffs and percussion (I DO), the song certainly doesn’t feel long.

And that’s the song I played several times over as I drove my little Toyota pickup through the cold, New Mexico night. On a secondary highway heading north toward I-40. The full moon reflected on the road. And there were basically no other cars. So, I turned off my headlights and skimmed across that ribbon of light.

I could see almost as easily without the headlights. Because the reflection from the road seemed to amplify and magnify the moonlight. It was exhilarating. And obviously a sensory experience I’ll never forget.

And all these years later, something else comes to mind.

None of that experience, nor any others like it, could ever happen without the love of God. Because, without Him, there would only be darkness and void. In fact, he inspired Moses to describe the light He made for us. So, Moses wrote this:

“Then God made two great lights: the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night. He made the stars also. God set them in the firmament of the heavens to give light on the earth, and to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness.”

Think about that. Those lights RULE. You and I have zero control over whether the sun and moon will shine or not. So, in a sense, they rule their light over us. Day WILL be lit up by the sun. And the moon lights the nights. Well, the stars, too. But the main light is the moon.

And those lights in the sky are indicators of how important light is to God. Then, when you go to the other end of the Bible, you discover that, in Heaven, there won’t be a sun and moon. What? If light is so important to Him, why would Heaven have no sun or moon? Simple. Yet almost impossible to imagine. God will BE the light.

And that Ribbon of Light will wrap around anyone who chooses to be there. That includes you. Right?

If not, consider taking a full moon drive, out West, the next chance you get. Turn off your headlights. And think about what could happen if you accidentally ended up in a ditch because you missed something on the road. And think about if you ended up like Tony and Mary, in Dan Fogelberg‘s song. Where would you go or be?

I hope you’d ride the ribbon of Light to Heaven.

But that could only happen if you had already chosen wisely. Otherwise, you could just be another side story in a small newspaper. And Dan won’t write a song about you. Because he left this planet years ago. And even I might not be around to write a song about you.

So, don’t put it off. Choose your Creator and you’ll feel (and be) more alive than you can imagine.

You’ll thank me later.

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Posted on June 14, 2023 by TonyJune 30, 2023

Benefits of Christian music and hope for my forever land

Love, peace, and music. I wish those for you. And now, let’s get down to business. No, I’m not smokin’ any halo tobacco. It doesn’t take a dope-smokin’, long-haired, hippy freak to talk about the finer parts of life. And, while we’re on the subject, that leads me into some of the benefits of Christian music.

First, there’s no cursing.

Second, there’s no sex.

Third, there’s no cursing.

And did I mention there’s no sex?

Oh yeah, those are the big 4 benefits of Christian music.

But then, another HUGE benefit of Christian music is that it’s an indicator of your NEW character. What’s that you say? You’re curious about the NEW character stuff? Good. Because I was just getting to that.

Paul (that guy who claimed his own Gospel) wrote a letter to the Colossians. And he described what you can see when a man (or woman) has a new character. No, not a part in a movie. An actual compilation of who they/you/he/she are/is. (Sorry, I got too inclusive for a second there.)

Anyway…

Paul said the “new man” should and would follow this outline:

“But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.”

See? Love and peace. Yes, thankfulness is in there, too. But then Paul went and spinned the tables when it came to music. Because he had the audacity to say you should use music to instruct others and even get on to them. What? With music? Uh-huh.

He actually said it more like this:

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

That’s not exactly what you’ll find in churches these days. So, I don’t think churches truly receive the true benefits of true Christian music. And, yes, that’s a lotta true-based stuff. But for a reason. Because what’s trying to pass for praise and worship music these days are actually repetitious, cotton candy choruses.

But when you try to give churches, and the “pewple” inside, more meaty music, they turn a deaf ear. Mostly.

I speak from experience.

I’m not bitter about it. I AM sad about it. But I also won’t be spinning any cotton candy. So, I pray the music I’ve composed and compiled over the years will be an indication of the treasures I’ve stored up in Heaven. And if that IS how it turns out, then I’ll rejoice at the eternal benefits of my Christian music. And I’ll do my best not to admonish anyone who turned a deaf ear.

And then I can behold the inner man
Through God’s condescending attitude.
Because He chose me as His dwelling place
I choose this consequential servitude.

(from my song Consequential Servitude)

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Posted on June 13, 2023 by TonyJune 30, 2023

Why is Christian music so bad? This doesn't make me glad.

Neil Patel, a marketing guy who shares a lot of how-to videos, has a website to help you with keywords and keyphrases for your content. Those are important if you want your website to be found and pull in traffic. So, with his keyword tool, you can type in a couple of words and get a bunch of questions being asked online. I typed in “Christian music,” and many of the questions asked “Why is Christian music so bad?”

Have you typed why is Christian music so bad into your browser?

If you do, let me know what you come up with.

This Christian music rabbit hole led me to a song I think is called Why. Or maybe it’s Why Why Why. Not sure. But I DO have to wonder why it’s considered a Christian song. And I wonder why so many songs can only find approximate rhymes and almost no phrasing rhythm. But that’s probably just me being out of touch with the times. So be it.

Anyway…

I found the lyrics to Why. And the songwriting credits are listed as Amy Moody Corbett and Christopher Joel Brown and Steven Furtick. It doesn’t say who wrote what. So, I don’t know if one wrote the music and the other two wrote the lyrics. Or if it’s vice versa. Or if they just all contributed words AND music.

But the sad point is, this could be a “love song” (full of confusion) to anyone. And about anyone. I realize they capitalized the word “You.” But when you listen, your brain doesn’t pick up on spelling and capitalizations.

Then, they pass off the words “said” and “breath” as rhyming words. Approximate. And the words sung, enough, and one as rhyming words. Barely approximate. Then, the chorus drifts into neverland as it says “I’ll never know why You love me like you love me.”

A Christian should know why.

Because a Christian should know that the answer to that question is found in the Bible. From more than one perspective. And from more than one of the contributors to its content.

I’m not gonna pick apart every jot and tittle. But there’s one section I particularly don’t like. Where the words drone into how no matter what you do, God loves you. Certainly there’s no sin that is not covered by the death and resurrection of Jesus. But that doesn’t mean you can “make my bed in hell” and it’s all good. Or that when you “don’t even love myself” it’s all good. Or that you can curse God and it’s all good.

Especially when you read how Jesus condensed all the commandments down into just two. Love the Lord your God. And love your neighbor as yourself. So, you’re commanded to love God and love yourself.

God won’t force you to obey those commandments. Because that would take away your freedom to choose. And He wants love to be freely given. But if you don’t follow those commandments, freely, your freedom to choose will come to an end. And that end will torment you forever.

I’ll leave you with the words to “Why.” And see if you’re left asking why is Christian music so bad?

Why

What can I say of Your loveThat has not already been said?Were I to tell all the things You have doneI would run out of breathSo many songs have been sungBut how can I praise You enough?So here’s another one

WhyYou love me like You love meI’ll never know
(repeat)Your love isBetter than silverAnd better than goldBetter than anything I’ve ever knownI’ll never knowWhyYou love me like You love meI’ll never know

Real joy doesn’t always feel like laughter, noBlessings don’t always come from the places I thought they wouldYour love doesn’t look anything like it does in HollywoodYou don’t walk out when it’s overThat’s when I need You the most

I’ll never know

Even when I turn my backYou love meEven when I curse Your nameYou love meAnd even when I broke Your heartYou love me (repeat twice)And when I make my bed in hellYou love meWhen I don’t even love myselfYou love meYou’re not the kind to cut and runYou love meYou love meYeah You love me

WhyYou love me like You love meI’ll never knowWhyYou love me like You love meYour love isBetter than silverAnd better than goldBetter than anything I’ve ever knownI’ll never knowWhyYou love me like You love meI’ll never know

Songwriters: Amy Moody Corbett / Christopher Joel Brown / Steven Furtick

Posted on June 12, 2023 by TonyJune 29, 2023

Defensive positions and weak suppositions

“We have nothing to fear but fear itself.” That’s a good line. Even though it does come from a former U.S. president who was so wrong on so many things. But back in that time in American history, even FDR understood that fear creates the wrong kind of defensive positions.

Fearful defensive positions lead to lights under baskets.

Yes, that’s a thinly-veiled reference to a Bible verse. And it’s one of those verses written in red. So, you know what that means. Right? As a friend of mine used to say, “Truth is about to be uttered.”

Fear can drive you so far into defensive positions that you won’t speak up when humans enslave other humans. Or you won’t speak up when adults traffic little kids for sex. Or you won’t speak up when men use underage girls, and then take them to abortion clinics. In fact, maybe you’ll even close your eyes and ears so you don’t have to see or hear.

How many times have I read some full-grown male talk about “crying in the fetal position?” And about what? What in the world could drive a full-grown male to that point? The answer is in the question.

The world.

And right now the world wants to erase, nullify, subjugate, and annihilate real men. Because the world (which is controlled by a tyrannical, will-bending, unrelenting ruler) fears real men. Especially those who love Jesus. But that ruler is cunning. He uses that fear as his greatest strength. If you allow it.

And if you’re a Christian, you won’t allow it. For one simple reason.

God didn’t give you a spirit of fear. He gave you a spirit of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

Now, what can you do with all that?

Well, how about “all things” for starters?

That just about covers everything. Right? So, why haven’t you done ALL things through the One who made you? Same reason I haven’t And the same reason no one else has. Because you lean on your own understanding, not God’s. Yeah, we’ve all been there. And that can lead to a constant or consistent state of fear which stems from a weak supposition. That is, you don’t believe God will help.

Let’s look at it from His perspective for a moment…

God knows He created you. He gives you power, love, and a sound mind. He gives you freedom to choose your own path. And He offers His wisdom and understanding of how the world and everything in it works.

So, all you gotta do, to tap into that wisdom and understanding, is read His Word and enjoy the renewing of your mind which comes from it. You might be surprised at how fast you could leave defensive positions behind.

In 1998, I wrote a song, which was a form of a prayer, about leaving fear behind. It’s called, “The One True Way To Peace.” Here’s the first verse…

Judge me; I need to be judged.
Correct me; whenever I’m wrong.
Save me from thinking my thoughts.
I’ve lived in them way too long.
Show me what I need to see.
Tell me what I have to hear.
Give me a voice of wisdom.
Thank You for taking my fear.

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Posted on June 10, 2023 by TonyJune 10, 2023

Even if this video I’m sharing with you didn’t have subtitles, I’m sure you’d pick up on the powerful love this Thai woman has for her family. Keep in mind, this video is a commercial. From a lingerie company.

Yeah, that’s right. I’m sharing a lingerie video ad. And it’s not a case of me using sexy stuff to get you to tune in to my social media channels or website. I shared this ad several years ago. But it’s so good, I need to share it again for any and all who didn’t see it the first time.

This Thai woman is not a supermodel.

But her husband considers her “My Beautiful Woman.” Check out the ad…

Here’s the link to the video if you don’t see it automatically: (https://youtu.be/NFG6W2_iiQE)

That Thai lingerie company might not have intended to make a pro life commercial. However, it’s a powerful pro life message. You won’t find a lingerie ad in America with this kind of message. In fact, you’re not likely to find much more than women walking or standing around in their undies. These days even fat women are in the ads. But the ads still just promote sexy. I guess it’s in the eyes of the beholder.

Anyway…

A far stretch from a husband and wife struggling with birth due to a battle with cancer.

That just wouldn’t be sexy.

But this video proves a lingerie ad doesn’t have to be about sex to be effective.

Too bad all ads don’t elevate life the way this one does.

And it’s easy to share a “pro life” message when you share how life is the most important thing there is. It’s as easy as showing how your products, services, and information improve the quality of life.

And this video shows that a pro LIFE message touches hearts and changes minds.

I believe it’s the kind of message that connects us to our Creator, too. It’s the love your neighbor kind of stuff.

Your life is my life and our lives are theirs,
‘Cause it’s the same life that everyone shares.
The life we share came from only one place,
Flowing from Jesus straight out if His grace.

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Posted on June 9, 2023 by TonyJune 28, 2023

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 people on Twitter to speak a little more friendly, he’s not. Or at the very least, his algorithms on Twitter would make it seem that way. But I hold people responsible.

Algorithms only block censored words they’re programmed to block

And I got a slap on the social media wrist, today, when I posted a simple statement. It said, “Tyranny and Tranny are SO similar. Y is that? Just a little play on words and letters. And did I say something that isn’t true?

But I got a message that said, people wouldn’t be able to see my tweet because “this Tweet may violate Twitter’s rules against Hateful Conduct.”

What did I say that’s hateful? And see why I say it’s people? Because an algorithm wouldn’t know what I meant by the word, “tranny.” And, I’m smart enough to know that’s brought on my censored words.

Many years ago, I talked about how these days would come. And not so long ago I reiterated the message and shared lyrics from 1996. Here’s what I said:

I’m not a pessimist. In fact, most people who have ever known me would probably tell you I’m a very “up” person. And I’m proud to be an American. This is not the country it once was, but it’s still the best place to be on the planet. Consider that I’m able to sit here in my studio/office and type these words into a laptop computer and hit “publish” and watch my words go out to the world. Not just words approved by the state. Or words censored by a totally depraved and tyrannical government.

No. These are…my words.

I’m still free enough to write words of chastisement toward my country without fear of the gallows, or dungeons, or banishment to some frozen wasteland.

At least for now.

But I’m concerned that the day is coming when my words will not be allowed to go out to the world. The day is coming when my Christian belief will immediately label me a “hater”. Think not? Think again. That day is essentially already here. I’m not surprised about it. Jesus said it would happen. He even said “whoever kills you will think he does God a service“.

Don’t you see that happening in other parts of the world? Is there any reason to think it can’t happen here? Or where you are? I say, no. But if you’d like to make sure it happens to as few people as possible…

Say Yeah!

Would you like to reach the top
And never have the journey stop? Say Yeah! Say Yeah!
Could you try to hold a hand
Just to help somebody stand? Say Yeah!

Would you give a word or two
To win a soul or win a few? Say Yeah! Say Yeah!
Do you want to change the way
Public servants act today? Say Yeah!

How many laws have to be passed
Before we’re obscured in the shadows they cast?
And how many plans must we invent
Before we can step beyond mere intent?

Do you see the pattern form
How the wrong becomes the norm? Say Yeah! Say Yeah!
Would you like to stop the ride;
Could you dare to take a side? Say Yeah! Say Yeah!

How many cuts are we to take
Before we can see just whose blood is at stake?
We can’t leave the job to the land of the free
Cause when it boils down…that’s just you…you and me.

If we don’t watch, someone’ll be watching for us.
If we don’t care then how can we complain.
We don’t have to give it up and say it’s over.
We can change it here, we don’t have to live in fear.
And we don’t have to cry in vain.

Stay tuned,

No-cost, low-cost, and premium ways you can show your support…

Tell everybody you know to subscribe to The TRUTH Journal
(emails with good stuff for Fa-Ree)

Get my Rhyme & Reason Podcast delivered right to your device. (also Fa-Ree)

Get digital Bible stuff from the same company I do.

My books are also on Amazon.com or Apple Books

Grab yourself an un-cool T-shirt

Or how about some music for believers, dreamers, and thinkers

Posted on June 8, 2023 by TonyJune 27, 2023

Chlorophyll benefits more than just a few tidbits

How much grass have you eaten lately. NO, I didn’t ask how much you smoked, you knucklehead. And I’m not an advocate of grazing out in your yard. But I bring it up because there are apparently some chlorophyll benefits to eating grass. Well, to eating greens, that is.

And when I mention chlorophyll, I mean that green pigment, present in all green plants and in cyanobacteria. The stuff that’s responsible for the absorption of light to provide energy for photosynthesis. And its molecule “contains a magnesium atom held in a porphyrin ring.”

Yeah. You know what I’m talkin’ ’bout.

So, here are a few chlorophyll benefits found in greens:

“They” say it…

Increases energy
Is anti-aging
Promotes red blood cell growth
Supports healthier skin
Makes it easier for wounds to heal
Is a free radical scavenger, and
Is a natural deodorant

Naturally, it depends on who you check with. Because there are people on both sides of the health fence when it comes to chlorophyll benefits. According to one article I read, “research to support these claims is both lacking and conflicting.”

I’m not so sure about that. But I know that since foods contain chlorophyll, they were designed to be that way. And the Designer (aka: Jesus) originally created a world where “every green herb” would be food for us. Thankfully, the Designer is so much smarter than us.

But you know us humans (or I hope you do).

We always find a way to mess things up. And that includes the food supply. But, to reiterate, the Designer is so much smarter than us.

He knew there would be problems with “every green herb” for a while after the worldwide flood (which was our fault, by the way). So, he told Noah (the guy who built the ark, not Russell Crowe) that “every moving thing that lives shall be food for you.”

Because God knew the animals could turn bad greens into good meat. And guess what’s found in beef that comes from cattle that eat grass. Yep, chlorophyll benefits. Well, chlorophyll, to be more precise. And to be even more precise, allow me to quote from a government website:

“Because grass-finishing alters the biochemistry of the beef, aroma and flavor will also be affected. These attributes are directly linked to the chemical makeup of the final product. In a study comparing the flavor compounds between cooked grass-fed and grain-fed beef, the grass-fed beef contained higher concentrations of diterpenoids, derivatives of chlorophyll call phyt-1-ene and phyt-2-ene, that changed both the flavor and aroma of the cooked product.”

OK, I’m not a phyt-1-ene or phyt-2-ene expert.

And I don’t know about that flavor altering. But I know how yummy a grass fed burger or steak is. Because I eat that stuff every day. Sure, it increases my toxic masculinity. But that’s a side effect I’m willing to live with. Or is it “with which I’m willing to live?” Doesn’t matter. I’m willing.

Over the years I’ve tried a wide variety of “healthy” foods and supplements. We even had a wheatgrass juicer in the FunderHaus for a while. So, I can tell you, from experience, that chlorophyll benefits are much tastier in grass fed beef than they are in “every green herb.”

But as tasty as a juicy steak is, and as tasty as a burger with real butter and sea salt is, I’ll be glad to never eat any more of them one fine day. And that day IS coming. Maybe soon.

Whether it’s soon or a thousand years, the truth is, one day no animals will ever have to die again in order for me to eat a healthy meal. And that will be Heavenly. Speaking of greens…

Avocado and cilantro
And a hint of lime.
Salsa bueno, words you may know
When you take the time
To dip a chip into this dip
Like a foodie would.
Guacamole isn’t holy,
But, man! It’s sooo good!

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Posted on June 7, 2023 by TonyJune 24, 2023

Beautiful people can also see we should live eternally

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 might have heard of, was there. For a long time she’s been one of those so-called “beautiful people.”

But it turns out, she’s quite a bit more than one of the beautiful people.

She was also the youngest woman to enter Licensing Hall of Fame. And she was the “youngest Icon in the Furniture Industry,” an award from the IHFRA (International Home Furnishings Representatives Association).

So, one of the beautiful people and yet connected to the home furnishings industry, eh?

Sounds kinda quirky to me. But it doesn’t stop there. She’s also on the board of “the James Madison Committee at Princeton University, NFL PI, WNBPA, International Youth Chair, and National Pediatric Cancer Foundation.” Plus she’s apparently an “Ambassador (and major donor) to the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation.”

Well, who is the person already? Right?

Would you believe she’s a former famous swimsuit model? I hope you’d believe it. Because she was. But now she’s considered a mogul. Yeah, her company, Kathy Ireland ® Worldwide is huge. And she’s got her entrepreneurial fingers in a lot of pies.

Oh, did I mention she’s Kathy Ireland? Uh-huh. Remember her from those Sports Illustrated covers and features?

Yeah, me neither.

But one subject most people wouldn’t associate Kathy with is abortion. And yet, in the video I’m sharing, you’ll see she uses scientific logic and reason to show why she became pro life.

Just in case you don’t see the video, automatically, here’s the link: (https://youtu.be/oMjeddIJCqU)

You and I might not be considered one of the “beautiful people” in this world. But you and I have a voice. That’s one of the few benefits of this social media world we inhabit now.

So, even if you can’t talk, write down your thoughts and use your voice. Tell people about the eternal value of human life. And it DOES have eternal value because it comes from the one true, eternal, living, loving Creator of Heaven and Earth. And your life, fashioned after God Himself, makes you one of the beautiful people after all. Yeah, me too.

So, anytime somebody tells you only weirdo Christians are pro life, share this video. It’s proof that even swimsuit models can understand that every person is a person, no matter how small.

If you take a stand and you stand for Life,
People might laugh and make fun.
And Jesus didn’t say it was gonna be easy,
But you’ll be with Him when this life is done.
No more livin’ like this;
By the sweat of your brow,
And if you want God’s paradise,
You better take a stand right now.

Stay tuned,

No-cost, low-cost, and premium ways you can help me spread the Word…

Tell everybody you know to subscribe to The TRUTH Journal
(emails with good stuff for Fa-Ree)

Get my Rhyme & Reason Podcast delivered right to your device. (also Fa-Ree)

Get digital Bible stuff from the same company I do.

My books are also on Amazon.com or Apple Books

Grab yourself an un-cool T-shirt

Posted on June 6, 2023 by TonyJune 16, 2023

Adult entertainment act was just sidetracked

It’s crazy weird. But most people still believe there are some people qualified to “make law.” And nothing could be further from the truth. I have a quirky, murky sign of a turkey who illustrates what I mean. And it has to do with something called the “Adult Entertainment Act.”

Adult Entertainment Act might be the right name for it.

Because it sounds like it comes out of the third ring of a three-ring circus. And it’s all an act. A dog a pony show (sorry to insult dogs and ponies, my favorite two animals). It’s just distractions to make voters believe some sort of positive changes have been enacted. Sadly, the rug is continually pulled out from under the very people who supported the distractions.

The Adult Entertainment Act was “enacted” by the state of Tennessee, recently. And it was put in place supposedly to ban “drag shows and adult cabaret entertainment for children.”

I have no issue with a state banning that kind of entertainment. Especially when it involves children. But I can just about guarantee there were already so-called “laws” on the books that, if enforced, could shut those kinds of venues down. Why make more? Just so you can give it a more modern name?

But, not to worry. Those kinds of so-called “laws” are just Gollum versus Smeagol theater.

Just in case you doubt me, consider this. A federal judge, who was appointed by Donald Trump, has “struck down” that Adult Entertainment act. Gollum gee. Hardly seems fair. And get this. Judge Thomas Parker, the so-called “judge” published his “opinion” (yeah, that’s solid-as-a-rock stuff there).

That “opinion” said Tennessee’s Adult Entertainment Act is an “unconstitutional restriction on free speech under the First Amendment.” He’s a “judge” from the “U.S. District Court for the Western District of Tennessee.” And he made sure the district attorney there could not enforce the so-called “law.”

Does that makes you mad?

Don’t worry. The “law” only applies to Shelby County in Tennessee. That’s where Memphis is. So, the ban is still in effect in all the other counties. For now.

So, what lesson can be gleaned from all that?

Well, obviously it’s that the home of the blues, Memphis, must be somewhere near those famous crossroads the famous old blues singers sang about. I know there are those who’d tell you the crossroads are in Mississippi. But my guess is, there are more and more crossroads every day. So, it’s gettin’ easier, all the time to go down there and make a deal with da devil.

I remember when adult entertainment was safe. Because it was family entertainment. Families could watch the old black and white TV shows, together. And most of those shows included mostly adults who entertained and amused. Without the need for covering kid’s eyes or ears.

Most American families appreciated what was then called “common decency.” Men didn’t feel empowered and entitled to walk around, in front of kids, naked or dressed like painted ladies. Not real men anyway. Thankfully, real men still don’t feel that way. But there are too few of us.

And there are even fewer who’ll say enough is enough.

Maybe that’ll change. I hope so. But right now it isn’t looking promising.

Stay tuned,

Share this link with everybody you know, so they can jump on the The TRUTH (My regular emails about the essentials of life, AND some music and other good stuff, for Fa-Ree)

Posted on June 5, 2023 by TonyJune 23, 2023

Wishing you all the best during your tough test

I just want you to know I’m wishing you all the best today. Because I know you’re going through a lot. And I know it can sometimes feel like you’re being tested every day.

So, yeah. I’m wishing you all the best.

Doesn’t it make you feel a whole lot better when someone’s tells you that? And don’t all your cares and troubles seem to magically fade away or disappear? Yeah. Words are truly powerful.

(cue the needle scratch sound)

NO! When somebody tells you they’re wishing you all the best, your problems don’t vanish. Certainly not if they’re real problems. Because wishing doesn’t have that power. Despite what some woman in a crystal bubble might tell a girl who wears ruby red slippers.

So, why would a grown up adult tell you what they wish for you? Especially, when they KNOW their so-called “wish” won’t do a darn thing to ease your pain?

Well, maybe it’s because they know it might help to ease your pain.

Wait a second. Didn’t I just say it wouldn’t ease your pain? Yeah. I just went back a couple of sentences, and there it is. I definitely said a wish “won’t do a darn thing to ease your pain.” So, why would I follow that up with the very next sentence that says a wish might help ease your pain? Oh brother (or sister), it’s all so complicated.

Except it’s not complicated, when you realize the relational aspect of comforting words. When you hurt, or you have to deal with a serious challenge in life, another person’s comforting words can sometimes make all the difference. And I’m talking about the difference in your attitude.

This world can be a dark, harsh place.

And the only reason it’s not totally saturated in everlasting darkness is because there’s still a flicker of God’s light. And that light shines brightly enough to keep hope alive. If you’re a Christian, a member of the Body of Christ, you are a ray of that light. Use your light to help someone through their darkness, today. Or at the very next opportunity.

Because it would be a shame if you kept that light under a basket and somebody you care about ended up in eternal torment. So, you know what I’m wishing for you today. Right?

Here’s something I wrote about wishing, many years ago.

What I Wish

There are people of the past
And people of today.
They’re standing in lines and passing away.
Let’s not talk about that.
Let’s go find us some fun,
Burn our candles at both ends,
Let our wild sides run.

We don’t wanna hear it.
We don’t wanna know why
‘Cause maybe we’ll feel near it,
And we’ll break down and cry.

Oh, I wish our world was better.
I wish our world was fair.
I wish we’d get together
And end the grief out there.
I wish our world was perfect.
And I wish our world was sane.
I wish there was no hatred
And more than earthly gain.
That’s what I wish.

There are innocent children
Who are losing their dreams.
All their dreams have exploded,
Blown apart at the seams.
They can’t trust in their mothers
Or their fathers for help.
No, their parents can’t help them
‘Cause they won’t help themselves.

We don’t wanna hear it.
We don’t wanna know where,
Just as long as it’s not us,
Who are we to care?

Stay tuned,

No-cost, low-cost, and premium ways you can help me spread the Word…

Tell everybody you know to subscribe to The TRUTH Journal
(emails with good stuff for Fa-Ree)

Get my Rhyme & Reason Podcast delivered right to your device. (also Fa-Ree)

Get digital Bible stuff from the same company I do.

My books are also on Amazon.com or Apple Books

Grab yourself an un-cool T-shirt

Or how about some music for believers, dreamers, and thinkers

Posted on June 3, 2023 by TonyJune 22, 2023

Tiger by the tail and boy that cat could wail

When I was a kid, there was a show on TV called Hee Haw. And every weekend, through the summer, I remember the family gathered around the TV set to watch all that “cornpone” humor. It was hosted by Roy Clark and Buck Owens. And Buck Owens is the guy who sang “Tiger By The Tail.”

Now, keep in mind, I’m basically not a country music fan. Especially what’s trying to pass itself off as country music these days. But I was raised in the midwest, mid south, and south. So, there was no way to avoid it all together. And I DO get a kick out some of the old songs.

Tiger By The Tail was one of those songs.

It was a hit back when songs didn’t always try to have a political message. Or lyrics focused on who’s hookin’ up with who (or is that whom?). In fact, lyrics didn’t have to be deep at all. Just catchy. Like these from the chorus of Buck’s song:

I’ve got a tiger by the tail, it’s plain to see.
I won’t be much when you get through with me.
Well I’m a-losing weight and I’m turning mighty pale.
Looks like I’ve got a tiger by the tail.

You might not believe this, but whole families used to sit around the TV, together, and listen to stuff like that. And just in case it doesn’t sound cool, get this. Dean Martin, aka: Mr. Cool, had Buck Owens on his TV show, and he sang that song with Buck. You don’t have to believe me. But it’s on YouTube, so there.

I took a different spin on the tiger tail idea.

In the first song, off my Kiddin’ Around collection of songs for kids, I said “Don’t grab a tiger by the tail.” And I followed that up with “Don’t go dancin’ with a whale.”

Yeah, that song is filled with lots of advice on what you shouldn’t oughta do. And I remember how kids laughed when I sang it for them at a Christian school outdoor get-together a few years ago.

Now, Kiddin’ Around is a coloring, drawing songbook.

Lyrics to all the songs in the collection are on the first pages. Then there are characters to color. And then there are blank pages for drawing. But the best part is the secret link to download all the songs that go with all those lyrics. And right now I have a limited supply of autographed copies of the book.

Get one for your kids today: https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/kiddin-around-book

And just in case you doubt the Dean Martin, Buck Owens connection, here they are on YouTube:

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RBDezyqHG60)

Stay tuned,

Posted on June 1, 2023 by TonyJune 21, 2023

If I talked to carnations, or lilacs, or even lilies of the valley (and I don’t, in spite of what you might’ve heard), I’d probably say something clever like, “You must’ve been scent from above.” And that’s because there’s nothing like a good pun to get a conversation rolling.

Yeah, “scent from above” is a pun. Not a typo.

And now that this conversation is rolling, I’ll tell you why I brought up the scent from above reference. It’s because I think it’s obvious that the wonderful scents, that waft up from so many flowers, were put there on purpose. Because those scents serve a purpose.

And I believe that we Earth-bound humans are only barely able to understand the purpose. Sure, botanists can tell you that one flower’s scent attracts certain critters. And those critters do this or that. Then, some other flower’s scent repels other critters. And that benefits this or that.

Those are all observable events and interactions.

But they certainly don’t logically explain why flowers would have evolved with scents. Or why critters would have evolved, synchronistically, to interact with them. Evolution is just to random and risky.

No, it makes a whole world of scents, oops sense (continue reading after you finish your belly laugh), that flowers were created to look and smell the way they do. So, then it would be easy to understand how they serve a purpose…on purpose.

And I believe so many of them smell so good because God loves us. And it pleases Him to delight our senses. With scents, sights, and sounds. So, in that way, flowers contain scent from above.

Stop and smell some today. And here’s a rhyme I wrote, 8 years ago, that illustrates that connection.

The Scent of Heaven

Take 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.”

Stay tuned,

P.S. Get yourself some flower seeds and spread some of God’s love around.

Posted on May 31, 2023 by TonyJune 17, 2023

Bad ideas and consequences lead to no more picket fences

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 about the cost of living. This young guy said,

“A lot of my older co-workers have huge houses that they bought decades ago while working the exact same job I’m currently doing. I was talking to one of my older co-workers. And he was asking why I work two jobs. So, I told him because my rent is $1800. He was like, well you must live in a mansion. And I said no, just an 800 sq ft apartment. He didn’t believe me at all. So I showed him on my phone what all the apartments are going for in our town. And he was like, my mortgage is half that on a 4 br house. He showed me pics of his house and it was huge and pretty decent. I looked it up on zillow and it’s worth $400 000. He bought it decades ago when it was around $100k.

Me and all my coworkers talk about the housing crisis a lot. And all the older guys who have been working there for 20-30 years all said they bought houses in their early 20s thanks to this job. I have the same job they did, the exact same position, and will never be able to afford even a starter home.

The American dream is dead.”

So, one consequence of some bad ideas is the death of the American dream.

What that young guy didn’t realize is, the so-called “American Dream” died even way before those older guys got their less expensive mortgages. That’s a key word in what the older co-worker said, “My mortgage is less than half that…”

Yeah, even the older co-worker couldn’t afford a house. He could only afford a mortgage.

And bad ideas made houses unaffordable in America. And around the world.

Bad ideas like getting both the husband AND the wife out into the workforce. That idea led to banks and real estate companies pumping up house prices. Because with both adults, of a household, working outside the home, the family “could afford” a more expensive house. Well, at least the payments on it.

And even way before the two income household bad idea affected America, property taxes made sure you’d never truly be a homeowner. No matter how much you believed in “the American dream.”

Don’t believe me?

Then, don’t pay your property taxes. And even if you have a paid-off mortgage, you’ll quickly discover who actually owns your house. And it ain’t YOU.

All that being said, ultimately you and I are always gonna be renters. Just like our parents were. And their parents before them. And so on and so on. Because none of us brought anything into this world. And none of will take anything out of it.

Now, I don’t want you to get the (bad) idea that I think all hope is lost. Because nothing could be further from the Truth. In fact, true hope shines brightly in my heart because I don’t put my faith in this world or its bad ideas and broken systems.

So, my faith has never been in “the American dream.” It has always been in the reality of the existence of the one, true, living, loving Creator of Heaven and Earth. Jesus trumps all clichés.

And that reminds me of a section of my song, Cliché, that talks about bad ideas that go with taxes.

We lend our money to so many nations, and
Still we struggle to pay off our own debt.
We hope for world peace and ending the hunger,
But will we ever do what no one has done yet?

So, here’s a good idea. Get that song, and 12 others, on my classic “Do Right” CD. Click or tap the following link to buy it on ebay: tinyurl.com/2jgk3ovy

Or, buy the download version directly from me here: https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/fundersongs/

Of course, buying my music is a great way to show support. But I want you to know that you also do that by being on the The TRUTH. I don’t take that for granted. Thanks!

Stay tuned,

Posted on May 30, 2023 by TonyJune 16, 2023

Milky Way black hole will never get my soul

I just read a short article about a Milky Way black hole problem. And you’d better brace yourself. Because this is a serious problem. Here’s a snippet from that article:

“A black hole with millions of times more mass than the sun is hurtling towards Earth and will one day wipe out life as we know it. The black hole is speeding towards us at 110 kilometres per second and is at the centre of the Andromeda Galaxy.”

The article made sure you understand that the Andromeda Galaxy is huge. And it continued with this:

“Located just 26,000 light-years away. And as we speak, it’s in the process of tearing apart entire stars and star systems, occasionally consuming them, adding to its mass like a voracious shark. Due to the size of Andromeda however, there is only going to be one winner when it smashes into the Milky Way.”

So, back to the Milky Way black hole.

Because evidently, according to the article, most galaxies have a “supermassive black hole which stars swirl around and helps keep everything in formation.” (side note: I think it’s funny when so-called scientists, who believe the evolution origin theory, use words like formation.)

Anyway…

Our own Milky Way’s black hole is no small matter. The article I read describe it like this. “And not just any black hole, it’s a supermassive black hole with more than 4.1 million times the mass of the Sun.”

Whoa! That’s huge. So it’s gotta have a negative impact on us. Right? If not right away, at least some time in the future. Yeah, writer of that article said, “we are safe for now.” But he added, “Panic will happen when the Milky Way collides with Andromeda in about 4 billion years.”

I don’t know about you. But as for me and my household, we’re gonna start freezing a lot more grass fed beef. And we’re gonna add to our solar panel supply. Hey, I was a boy scout. Be prepared is my motto.

Because, when the panic hits, it’s every man for himself.

Oops. That’s misogynistic and transphobic. Oh well, so be it.

Wait a sec. Come to think of it, I don’t believe I’m gonna let all that panic affect me and my household. Matter of fact, I (we) choose to trust in the Creator of all the galaxies in the universe. And He (that would be Jesus) holds the universe together. Science fiction “scientists” don’t have a clue about that glue.

So, I (and my household) have confidence, hope, and peace about the Milky Way. Even if it has a supermassive black hole, we’ll never be vacuumed into it. Never.

And that’s why I could compose a composed and peaceful lullaby song called “Milky Way Bouquet.” And I confidently included it in a collection of lullabies and put them all in a book. Because I believe, at least for a while longer, our galaxy is stable enough to build, create, and sell books.

If you have little ones, you should be playing the Lullabye Bye collection for them at bedtime. And you can get all those songs, in a secret link, inside the Lullabye Bye coloring and drawing songbook. Links to get it on Amazon are below. Order yours today. Prime members get free delivery.

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

Stay tuned,

Here’s the funny looking link to Lullabye Bye on Amazon:

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

Posted on May 29, 2023 by TonyJune 15, 2023

Just so you know, right up front, I don’t believe humans turn into angels when they die. Because angels are not the same kind of creation. And they’re already created. And they’ll always BE angels. You and I are already created as human beings, to be that way forever.

And since we’re already created to be what we’ll always be, why this?

Why would I write a poem about soldier angels? Well, actually I didn’t. But 10 years ago, I DID write a poem, in honor of Memorial Day and soldiers who died for our country, that sounded that way. But it’s metaphorical. Not to be mistaken as a belief that soldiers turn into angels.

Back then, I thought about how this world is another year closer to the end of this age. And I wanted to say how I’m thankful for the soldiers who give and gave so much to hopefully keep our country safe. So, I said “they’re like guardian angels for us in the here and now.”

And for those who gave their lives in that service I said, “They’re no longer guardian angels, but many of them live in the realm of angels.”

Then, I mentioned how “ironically many of those angels will be soldiers here on earth one day.” And I said they’ll be “fighting for the causes of freedom.” Because they’ll be fighting for the Truth that makes you free.

So, I used a rhythm I don’t typically use to write a rhyme about soldiers and angels. Even though human beings will never be angels, and angels will never be human beings, the soldier connection is a sad, yet glorious, reality. Here’s that rhyme I already created 10 years ago.

Soldiers, Angels

Soldiers, angels, walkin’ through the green grass
Underneath the blue skies,
Singin’ soft lullabies,
And they carry baubles made of brass.

Soldiers, angels, hikin’ up the high road
Lookin’ for the heart light
Gotta make it start right
Now because they have a heavy load.

Soldiers, angels, have left us a tutorial
On how to skip mistakes
Like everybody makes…
Then we build a sad memorial.

Soldiers, angels…one becomes the other
Takin’ on a new role
And up goes the death toll.
Why can’t every man just love his brother?

Soldiers, angels…we can’t live without them
Paying for our error
Till God stops this terror…
And that’s why I wrote this poem about them.

Stay tuned,

No-cost, low-cost, and premium ways you can help me spread the Word…

Tell everybody you know to subscribe to The TRUTH Journal
(emails with good stuff for Fa-Ree)

Get my Rhyme & Reason Podcast delivered right to your device. (also Fa-Ree)

Get digital Bible stuff from the same company I do.

My books are also on Amazon.com or Apple Books

Grab yourself an un-cool T-shirt

Or how about some music for believers, dreamers, and thinkers

Posted on May 28, 2023 by TonyNovember 11, 2024

You and I pay through the nose for everyone who prefers the SNAP trap.

I hope you haven’t fallen into the SNAP trap. Because it’s obviously difficult to impossible to escape. And just imagine the horror you’d face without the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Brought to you by your most benevolent and trustworthy government.

So, why do I call it a SNAP trap?

I’m glad you asked. That WAS you, right? Anyway. First, it’s made to sound like a program that cares about your health. After all, the word “nutrition” is right in the full name. Second, they want it to sound like it’s just to help those who just need a little boost. After all, the word “supplemental” is right in the full name. And you can supplement something if there’s not something already there to supplement. Can I get an “Amen?!”

Third, they want it to sound like they want to HELP you. After all, the word “assistance” is right there in the full name. But, lurking below the surface of that idea, is their belief that you can’t help yourself, those of you who fall into (or jump into) the SNAP trap.

This subject showed up on my radar because it was a trending topic on Twitter today. And as I scrolled down through just the first 6 to 12 comments, I noticed how almost nobody recognizes the trap.

Here are a few quotes. See if you pick up on what I noticed.

I’m days away from 50, I’m widowed and long-term disabled, and I can’t even qualify for SNAP without the new work and commuting requirements. This is my refrigerator, complete w/ burned out bulb (cup of spaghetti-o’s, cup of water, 6 pc. of bread):
I hope SNAP and Social Security recipients who’ve been understandably anxious over Republicans’ threatened US debt default learn to NEVER vote for this cruel, extortionist party of saboteurs. GOP raised the debt ceiling 3X under Trump w/ no brinksmanship or budget cut extortion.
One point I haven’t seen emphasized about the budget deal is that as far as I can tell, it’s not going to involve a major hit to the safety net for children. The new SNAP work requirements are cruel, but they apply to childless adults in their 50s
I’m a single mom on food stamps and this is my fridge today, I don’t get them again until June 10th. This is life on snap and I have a job too. Rep. McGovern is correct no one on snap is laying on the couch eating steak dinners. With republicans cruelty is the objective full stop
MAGA Republicans force birth then yank food assistance from those struggling to provide for the baby. They cut SNAP, WIC, and school lunches. But they happily extended tax cuts for the elite.

The first quote included a picture of the inside of a refrigerator. I’ll take her word for it. But my guess is she snapped the picture on her smartphone. And last time I looked, those are kinda pricey. Minor details, Tony.

The second quote says republicans (and they probably forgot to include democrats) who sabotage government “freebies” are extortionists.

Then, the third quote mentions how “work requirements are cruel.”

I agree. But not for the reason that person would attempt to justify. They ARE cruel. But that’s because SNAP shouldn’t exist. It’s cruel to provide food to able-bodied people who don’t work for it. Because it shows them you don’t expect much from them. And you don’t believe they can succeed without you.

The fourth quote is like the first one. Another shot inside a refrigerator. And probably snapped on a pricey smartphone. And it highlights how many people prefer to emphasize their “single mom” or single dad status. So, of course, they need a nanny. Because who wants to get married and deal with all those headaches? Especially when the most affordable nanny is Uncle Sam.

Finally, the fifth quote would be laughable if it weren’t so utterly stupid. In the first place, it’s highly likely that most “MAGA Republicans” don’t have an issue with abortion. So, they certainly won’t (even if they could) force birth on someone. Secondly, if the tax system was fair and just, you’d never need a government program’s “assistance.” And one HUGE way to make the tax system more fair and just would be to eliminate government schools. Because that would eliminate the evil property taxes that ensure you’ll never again own a home in America.

And here’s the biggest reason why the snap trap should stop.

Because these programs can only exist when the government steals from those who produce and work hard and gives some of what it steals to those who don’t. Key word: “some.” Politicians skim, in one way or another, from ALL the government programs. So, they’re not likely to be motivated to end them. Ever!

So, people like you and me, who sell and resell stuff to provide food and shelter and transportation, are pushed to produce and work harder and smarter. On the one hand that’s good. Because that’s how you increase sales and profits. On the other hand, those increased sales and profits are too attractive to the greed-filled powers that be. And, so the downward cycle continues.

The solution isn’t to “make your vote count.” If you truly wanna do that, don’t waste your precious vote on either socialist candidate you’ll discover on the next ballot. Instead, seek wisdom from God. Ask for His help to tell others about the importance of knowing what happens when you die. Yeah, lay up treasures in Heaven. Where no politician or corrupt and tyrannical government will ever be able to steal them or give them to someone else.

Speaking of working and selling, I’ve been sharing links to one of my collections of songs for kids this week. It’s called Kiddin’ Around. Unless your kid is totally bonkers, he or she (and those are the only two choices) will get a kick out of ’em. So, get the lyric book and all ten songs in one download at this weird-looking link:

https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=L6MAH2QKHU5J8

Or you can get the physical coloring and drawing songbook version with the link to the songs inside at this weird-looking link:

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

Help make SNAP stand for Support Native American Producers.

Stay tuned,

Posted on May 26, 2023 by TonyMay 26, 2023

Low self-esteem. Negative body image. Even suicide. This world is chock full o’ nuts. Oh wait. That’s coffee. Must’ve gotten distracted by the aroma emanating from the cup on my desk. Seriously, there are countless numbers of people dealing with doubt about themselves. It’s important to be humble and all. But there’s an awesome way to overcome the problem.

If you’re dealing with doubt, you’re probably looking the wrong direction.

And you’re probably all focused on, uh, YOU. But to coin those lyrics in a Kim Carnes song again, “That’s where the trouble lies.” Because it’s easy to live in doubt and fear when life is all about YOU.

So, here’s the best advice for anytime you’re dealing with doubt.

Remember, you originated in the mind of God.

Yeah! AND, you even look like Him. Well, not exactly, of course. But you (and I) were created in the “image and likeness” of Jesus. And He made a huge sacrifice for us when He took on human flesh. Because He took it on forever.

In all of eternity past, He was spirit only.

But, now, He has a face you can recognize. Because it’s like yours. Two ears and eyes. A mouth and nose. Hair, teeth, lips, and so on. And He is not like false gods who can’t empathize with your pain. Jesus knows your pain. Even better than you know it yourself.

So, look up.

And, at the risk of sounding simplistic, the next time you’re dealing with doubt, Don’t fear. Instead, focus on your Creator and what He says about you. And speaking of “Don’t” here’s more you don’t do. The link you see at the end of the video has been replaced. You should click or tap this one: https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/fundersongs And scroll down till you see the Kiddin’ Around songs.

You can also get a paperback version of the Kiddin’ Around book on Amazon. It’s a coloring book, songbook (with lyrics), and there’s a secret download link to all the songs. Click or tap this link:

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

Stay tuned,

Posted on May 25, 2023 by TonyJune 12, 2023

His plan for man has left the frying pan

“There are things that we’re not going to understand along the way. You have to trust that God knows what He’s doing and working out His plan for your life. His plan is bigger. His plan is greater.”

OK, that appears to be (I say appears to be because I found it on social media) a quote from the number one authority on God’s plan, Joel Osteen.

Let’s compare that with what the Bible (which is God’s Word) says about understanding and who’s in charge of your life. Now, keep in mind, I’m quoting from the New King James version of the Bible. So, it might be chock full of human bias. Come to think of it, maybe all versions are. Uh-oh.

Anyway…Bear with me. Let’s say, for the sake of time and effort, that there’s the slightest chance our English translations of the Bible are reasonably reliable. That being said, what does it say about understanding?

Oh my goodness. Just looked at Proverbs. Could this be His plan?

With barely a few strokes on my computer keyboard, I found six very interesting results when I searched for the term “get understanding.” I’m no rocket scientist (thank God), but it appears the writer of those Proverbs believed that being able to understand is a do-able thing. I mean, c’mon man. The implication is there. Because would God tell us to do something that’s not do-able? (My guess is No)

Over and over, in the Bible, you’ll discover (if you look) that God gives human beings the ability to think and decide for themselves. And then, He lets them. It would appear that God’s “plan” for your life is for you to use what He gave you to plan your own day.

You’re using it right now as you read this. Yep, God designed and gave you a brain. And then He took a HUGE risk. Because He let you think for yourself.

In other words, you don’t have to ask His permission to make decisions. Of course, you should always consult Him and ask for His help. But you can make decisions based on your own choices. Then you can enjoy the rewards or deal with consequences based on what you chose.

In “Biblical terms” that’s called sowing and reaping. A totally understandable concept.

Even for humans.

But I’m sure you’ve heard this, when bad things happen. “Well, we trust God even though we don’t understand why He’s doing this or what His plan is”. If you’re a Christian, please don’t say that.

You should understand we currently live in “the age of Grace.” So, this isn’t a dispensation where God wrecks cars, burns down houses, makes your kids steal, crashes planes, or makes anybody shoot anybody else. God isn’t arbitrary. He isn’t fickle. And He doesn’t play games with your life.

God doesn’t (and never did) plan your day. He doesn’t make you rich. And He doesn’t make you poor.

You can be sure He’ll never leave you nor forsake you as you plan your own day. But He has the big picture view of your world and your life. Your view is more myopic and selfish (mine too). And that means allowing you to live your life with the freedom to love Him or not. The freedom to choose Him or not. So, here’s what I suggest as you plan your day today:

Choose to get more understanding of God’s word. Put that at the top of your to-do list.

And don’t buy into that whole “It’s just part of God’s plan” mantra. That takes His truth out of the frying pan and into the fire, so to speak. And that fire is the world’s increased hatred toward the kind of God who’d orchestrate all the chaos and evil in this world. And then say it all somehow follows a righteous plan.

If you never have, then choose to trust Him and His actual word. If you’ve already done that, then choose Him to continue to be the guiding force in your life. Choose to love God. Because His ultimate, overarching plan for you is eternal life in His Heavenly paradise. But He didn’t already preordain you to be there. And He won’t force you to be there. You’re in charge of that choice. Choose wisely.

Planning your day is part of your life…
Choosing the things you will do.
Make sure you choose the giver of life.
He’ll always be there for you.

Stay tuned,

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Posted on May 23, 2023 by TonyNovember 21, 2024

The morning sun will shine and I'll write another line.

Remind me to tell you my thoughts on human sovereignty one of these days. I’ve got an interesting perspective on it. But that’s not what I’m sharing with you today. Something else occurred to me, today, as I saw the morning sun start to glow on the tops of the trees.

It occurred to me that the morning sun will shine again tomorrow.

And the next day. And the next. Et cetera, et cetera, et cetera. Those et ceteras always sound best in groups of three.

But here’s the thing. The world, and by the world I mean everyone who believes life on planet Earth is all there is, says the sun might not shine tomorrow. Yeah, the world (those hopeless souls who want you just as hopeless as they are) is FILLED with darkness. Because it reflects the darkness in their hearts.

But anyone who tells you the sun isn’t gonna shine tomorrow (or someday soon) is either a liar or an ignorant fool. And I don’t care how many dystopian movies and TV shows there are. The people (and I use that description loosely) who produce them are totally clueless.

Of course, they’d tell you it’s ME who’s clueless. And they DO say it all the time. Not specifically about me. Just anyone who’d dare to trust God and remain optimistic in these dark times.

But give me optimism and real Truth.

Any day of the week. And twice on Sunday. Because I prefer to move forward through life with the knowledge that it goes on forever. Not in the same body. No, I DO have to trade in this used, broken-down body on a brand new one. But it’s with the knowledge that the new one is paid for.

And I know the whole world, even if every nation bundled into some sort of “new” orderly fashion, couldn’t keep the sun from shining. Not even if it employed billions of robots with artificial intelligence. And not even if it could focus all the planet’s energy into a giant ray gun aimed at the sun itself.

Nope. The world does not have, nor will it ever have, that kind of power. Thankfully, there is One who does. And He has given me access to eternal life, if I want it. And I DO. So, I know I’m tapped into the source of Life where all the power in the universe originates.

And I know I can do all things through Him. Two key points to that last statement. Just because I CAN doesn’t mean I DO. And “all things” means those things doable by me, with the gifts and talents God gave me.

So, that’s why I use words and music to send out these messages to the world. I know, full well, that most of the world will never see or hear me. But there might be some, even one or two, who will see and hear and be turned back to their living, loving Creator.

And that would do more for me than all the sunbeams of the day.

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

(from my song “I Can Do”)

Stay tuned,

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