The TRUTH Will Set You Free - The blog from - Page 36 of 164

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,

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 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,

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 22, 2023 by TonyJune 6, 2023

Biogenesis theory is the one that isn't dreary

So, if the love of your life says he or she (and those are your only two choices) would like there to be more spontaneity in the relationship, RUN! Because that means they don’t believe in the biogenesis theory. Or, at the very least, they play way too fast and loose with reality.

Because the biogenesis theory IS reality.

In fact, it’s not just a theory. It’s a Law. Like the law of gravity. And those laws of thermodynamics. The law of biogenesis shows that life comes only from life. Sounds like crazy talk to crazy people.

But truth and reality are like that sometimes.

When evolutionist “scientists” say that life emerged from non-living matter, they call it spontaneous generation. Doesn’t matter that spontaneous generation of life has never been observed. That’s why the “law of biogenesis” is a law of science. No one has broken it. And even those evolutionist “scientists” accept it. They don’t want to, but they do.

So, again, RUN from anyone who leans toward the spontaneous side. And don’t look back. Hopefully you know, or understand, how I never kid around about these things.

You can find tons of articles, rhymes, and stories I’ve shared, right here on my website, about how we humans got here. And all my valid points for why the theory of organic evolution is flawed and even invalid are backed by scientific evidence. I personally don’t require any of the scientific evidence to believe that a living, loving Creator made me. But the science is a bonus.

And most people don’t want to share my faith. So, they don’t care about the bonus. And they cling to the theory of evolution because they don’t like where my worldview leads.

The supernatural creator.

Maybe that’s not the reason. Maybe they think their science will back them up. But the biogenesis theory, based on scientific observations, shows life comes only from life. And that should spark a lot of enthusiasm. Not rebellion. But rebels gotta rebel. So, there you go.

Anyway…

If you have some video proof of life coming from non-living matter, I’ll be glad to post it here for everyone to see.

But here’s what I suggest for anyone who believes you should “trust the science.” Let scientific observations take you where they will. And don’t manipulate them on your Ouija board of pre-conceived bias. When you go with my recommendation, don’t be surprised to discover this hope-filled conclusion. You were “fearfully and wonderfully made“.

There’s A Time

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

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

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

chorus

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

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 20, 2023 by TonyJune 4, 2023

Streets of San Francisco are as healthy as Crisco

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 the original show.

Those streets of San Francisco certainly looked different than they do now.

Watch the opening credits closely enough and you’ll see snippets from the “bad side of town.” But that show was from a time when crime fighters at least tried to hold that boundary. So, the bad side, the seedy side, stayed put. Somewhat.

Fast forward 50 years, and I don’t think Michael Douglas or Karl Malden would recognize the city their characters once policed. Street zombies (I refuse to call them homeless people) are everywhere. But why shouldn’t they be? Free drugs. Freedom from prosecution when they steal in broad daylight. And free bathrooms on every street and even in elevators. Zombies love that stuff.

I watched a video that James Woods (Academy Award winning actor) shared on Twitter. And he posted a comment that said, “Guess which Democrat run hellhole this is. Hint: all of them.” It’s difficult to believe it’s America. The street zombies in the video look either demon possessed or void of a living soul.

It’s on a scale I could never have imagined when I was a kid.

But when you drug people up and dumb them down, how could the results be anything else?

Well, there IS a Way to fight it. The ONLY Way. And the Way is the person known as Jesus. But the very mention of His name (and the fact that I capitalize even the references to Him) is offensive to this world.

The “right politicians” aren’t the solution. They’ll most likely come up with a “$1 billion investment to address homelessness.” Am I the only one who sees the idiotic irony? Address homelessness. Get it?

I’d rather eat a pan of biscuits made with Crisco than spend a second on the streets of San Francisco.

Over 30 years ago I wrote a song that talked about the end result of drugs. The lyrics are laced with drug references. And there are probably plenty, these days, I don’t know about. But the point is more valid now.

Nothin’s Gonna Happen To You

Well you’re human and it’s hum-drum,
So you find yourself in front of a screen.
The remote control slowly takes its toll.
Then you’re thumbing through a magazine.
Years ago you had to know.
You had to stand out brave and true.
You said, “Don’t wait for nothin’, or
Nothin’s gonna happen to you.”

You were Ghengis Khan and Napoleon.
You were king of cool to all your friends.
But the juggernaut fell into the pot,
And so this is how the story ends.
But I have to know what could change you so.
I have to see what cut you through.
And don’t tell me “nothin,” or
Nothin’s gonna happen to you.

Why the empty stare…nothin’ nothin’.
Tension in the air…nothin’ nothin’.
You just can’t admit, you’re too mortal to conquer it
And nothin’s gonna happen to you.

Well, it’s so posh how you whitewash,
And the truth starts falling through the crack.
So your winter scheme is a broken dream,
And the pieces stab you in the back.
Time gone by can make you cry.
And the tears can freeze inside your heart.
But don’t obsess in that icy mess.
Blow the danger and the pleasure apart.

On the inner side it feels like a ride
As you rollercoast into the sky.
But the outer side shows the demon lied.
Give him anything to keep you high.
Years from now they’ll wonder how,
How it ever got to you.
And I’ll just say “nothin”
Nothin’ ever happened to you.

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 May 19, 2023 by TonyJune 3, 2023

Bag of tricks for how they get their kicks

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 see and hear it anymore. Because the internet, a bag of tricks for those on the dark side, has billions of channels you can tune into 24/7/365. And even 24/7/366 in leap years.

Ironically, that bag of tricks contains lots of opposing channels, too.

Sadly, most of the world wants nothing to do with those channels. Because those channels (you’re on one right now) don’t do the “cool stuff.” You know what I’m talkin’ about. F-bombs. Bathroom humor. Dirty celebrity laundry. Political hijinks and shenanigans (now, THERE’S a couple of modern words for you).

Yeah, I don’t spend my time scheming and strategizing ways to make people with opposing worldviews squirm. One reason is, I don’t have to. Because the Truth does that. And another reason is, I actually don’t want people to be miserable.

But it appears that nothing and no one can stop them from being miserable. They insist on it with every fiber of their being. And every decibel of their vocal cord.

So, for now, I’m just enjoy a peaceful Friday evening with my beautiful wife. And we’ll stream a show from the bag of tricks, uh, the internet that isn’t about murder and mayhem. We’ll leave that to the residents of…

Never NeverLand

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?}
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.

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 May 18, 2023 by TonyJune 3, 2023

The digitization of so many things has not been completely advantageous. For guys like me, easy access to digital music production is great. But that same easy access takes away the obstacle of actually having to learn music in order to produce songs. And I’m a fan of digital art. I even started creating my own illustrations for my books for kids years ago. And, recently, I upgraded to a much better application for that.

So, I can’t say anything against digital art.

Well, I guess I could. But I’m not gonna do that right now. Even though the next step, Artificial Intelligence (aka: AI) is kicking in like a bad guy knocking down the door in a spy movie. Yeah, pretty soon humans will be totally unnecessary. OK, I can hardly write that and keep a straight face. But that’s what both proponents and opponents of AI would have you believe.

But again, I’m not getting into any of that right now. My thoughts, even when I’m creating digital art, tend to drift out to the fields and streams and open countryside. Out where the true necessities exist. Food. Water. Fresh air. Sunshine. If you don’t have those, none of the rest of this world matters.

My memories include a LOT of those food, water, fresh air, sunshine moments. Hours, days, weeks, and even years in the heartland of America. Where real people did real things. And where relationships weren’t just important. They were crucial for survival.

Thankfully, there are still a lot of Americans who live that life. And they’re the ones who do their best to make sure the rest of us, who don’t farm and raise livestock, have plenty to eat. And despite your government’s most atrocious efforts to convince you otherwise, there is still plenty to eat. Right here in America. Just because despicable people would like to keep you separated from that truth doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist.

Today, right now, right this very minute, I miss the scent of hay and horses. And I miss the sounds of tackle boxes and tractors. And I miss the days of driving the back roads with the windows down.

I’m at an age, in a broken country, when I’ll probably never experience all that again. But my hope is that there will be enough younger people who would cherish those days enough to turn things back around. The future will not be a victim of preordained fate, in spite of what some ignorant people would have you believe. But the future will be a victim of your apathy. Or a beneficiary of your faith over fear.

What do you say we stir up some analog action in the middle of these digital art days?

Analog Man

He makes his living in that smoky ol’ dive.
He’s still believin’ that his time will arrive.
He bangs the keys out to the rhythm and horns.
He says that it’s exactly why he was born.
Don’t wanna face your facts; he’ll just keep makin’ tracks.
Because he know that it’s what keeps him alive

Don’t use no cellphone, and he don’t go online.
Says AM radio will suit him just fine.
Still winds his watch and keeps a pencil and pad.
Ol’ black and white t.v…says it ain’t so bad.
Don’t mind a little hiss…he says “that’s soulful bliss.”
And that’s what really makes the music divine.

He’s an analog cat in a digital cage.
He’s an analog letter; not a digital page.
Built his analog house from an analog plan.
Says throw them little digits in the can.
He’s an analog man.

He lights his ciggy with a blue diamond match.
Don’t play no video; he loves to play catch.
He drives a Thunderbird from ‘56.
It uses cheap gas and it’s easy to fix.
Might leak a little oil, but it don’t overboil.
And just like him it was the last of a batch.

Repeat chorus…instrumental…chorus to end

Stay tuned,

And share this link with everybody you know, so they can jump on the The TRUTH where you can get a book, some music and other good stuff, for Fa-Ree.

Posted on May 17, 2023 by TonyJune 2, 2023

Fossils evolution and an auto revolution

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, there won’t be a forthcoming retraction or apology.

Because the fossils evolution connection is a fairy tale.

And I probably shouldn’t say that. Because it’s an affront to the fairies in actual fairy tales. (side note: adults don’t believe in fairies or fairy tales. They’re reserved for kids’ imaginations.)

Anyway…

I’ve already talked about the advantages of crude oil. And how it’s a renewable resource. But most people are still scared of the big monster known as “Carbonus Emmisionatus” (aka: carbon emissions). So, hugs and kisses flow to EV car makers where magical batteries are charged by butterfly wings and pixie dust.

Oh wait. There are reports coming in, right now, that EV car charging stations are powered by (GASP!) connecting to the electricity grid. Not butterfly wings and pixie dust. AND that grid is powered by hydroelectric stations that run on (Dare I say it? Yes, I do.) by-products of crude oil.

Kids! Turn your heads. Don’t look. It’s too horrible to even think about.

But we’ve got to keep those dastardly hydroelectric stations going. Because we’ve got to forge ahead with electric cars. Because electric cars run on batteries made of materials that can be found in endless amounts.

Oh wait. More reports coming in. What?! Can this be true? EV car batteries include materials that are NOT in endless supply? And what’s this? They consist of materials that are in even lower supply than crude oil? Plus, the batteries don’t last forever? And disposal could involve less than desirable environmental impact?

Maybe this would be a good time to consider H2.

And I use the word, maybe, facetiously. Of course it’s a good time. It’s been a good time since time began (and when I say “time began” I mean for humans, but that talk is for another time)

Now, when I mention H2, you don’t think I’m talking about Hummers. Right? I’m not. Although, I believe the Hummer H2 could benefit from H2 technology.

Thankfully, a company I’ve been a fan of for decades, Toyota, is in almost relentless pursuit of efficient and safe H2 technology for the auto industry. And I read some info about their Corolla H2 concept car that sounded very cool.

Sure, they had a fire during a test of their liquid hydrogen-powered car. But they pushed ahead. And they announced their Corolla H2 “will compete for the first time at the Fuji 24 Hours” later this month.

But maybe you’ve heard about the fire dangers connected to H2 (aka: hydrogen). And the fire that Toyota dealt with was evidently caused, ironically, “by a loose connection within the hydrogen supply piping.” And they said the leak “occurred from the joint nearest to the engine, following its exposure to powertrain movement and vibration.” But the car’s safety system “shut off the hydrogen supply in under 0.1 seconds.”

That’s super fast.

And it meant there would be “no further damage or injury…to the vehicle or driver.”

Of course, some (maybe many) might say, “But it’s hydrogen. Remember the Hindenburg disaster. We’d better stick with our gas and electric engines. Because they’re safe and stable.”

Well, not so fast. Here’s something to consider.

“Given a spark, gasoline will burn in any environment. Hydrogen, on the other hand, only ignites at certain concentrations and temperatures,” commented Tomoya Takahashi, president of the Gazoo Racing Company. “Specifically, it needs a 4% concentration in air and a temperature of at least 550˚C. Hydrogen will not ignite under any other conditions.”

Wow. And for those keeping score, 550˚C equals 1022 in American temperature. So, it’s obviously not impossible. But it’ll be less and less likely to ever occur as testing and production improve the H2 technology to the level of efficient and safe we now enjoy in gas-powered engines.

Some of the top people in the Toyota company believe (and say) that H2 is the true future for cars. And I won’t take issue with that, even though it’s obvious that crude oil is a renewable resource. I won’t take issue because, according to most scientific sources, hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe. So, maybe there’s enough to go around for everyone. And hydrogen powered engines only emit water.

Akio Toyoda, the chairman of Toyota, said this about H2 cars, “I drive the car myself, and we’re not giving up on the project. I want people to see hydrogen not as a danger, but as our future.”

I believe that the fossils evolution connection slows down technology. Because it’s driven by, and it drives, fear. A fear that we humans will destroy “mother earth.” Or a fear that we’ll use up all our resources. Or have too many people for the amount of resources.

Whatever the fear, it’s the opposite of faith.

Put your faith in God, the one who created heaven and earth and said it’s “very good.” And trust that His word is true when He says that as long as the earth remains, we’ll have spring time and harvest, cold and hot, winter and summer. You and I don’t live on a fragile bubble.

But it doesn’t matter if you prefer gas engines or electric. H2 technology or wind. Because every bit of it WILL be gone one day. But you’ll still exist. Or you’ll still live. The difference is based on your choice.

And here’s a quote from me that’s better than the Toyota CEO’s quote, “I trust Jesus myself. And I’m not giving up on Him. I want you to see Him not as a condemner, but as the Savior.”

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 May 16, 2023 by TonyFebruary 24, 2025

I first shared this song over a dozen years ago. And about eight years ago I showed how the lyrics explained more of the whole person who created you and me. I went through the words a little at a time and put the explanation in blue. For anyone who’s interested, here’s a rerun of that explanation for…

Give Me The Whole Jesus

Oh give me love…give me justice…
Right there in the first line I talk about the “whole Jesus”. I hear and read so many people (Christians and non-believers alike) who say God is love. While this is true…He’s so much more. Something He strongly represents is justice.
Give me Grace and the strength to endure.
When the world comes against me,
Give me Your Spirit steadfast and sure.
There again is a clearer definition of the Lord’s qualities. He can impute Grace AND strength to endure the trials and tribulations of this world.

Give me words…give me courage…
Give me time and a powerful voice.
The Lord is also called “The Word”. So, He knows, better than I, that my words alone aren’t enough. I also need the courage to write or speak them.
And when many still may hate me,
Give me Your love and I’ll always rejoice.
Jesus told believers the world would hate us…and persecute us…because they hated Him and persecuted Him. But His love was unimaginably revealed in His tortured death on a cross.

For that, I’ll always rejoice.

Give me the whole Jesus;
The whole Good Lord…
The One who shields the child…
The One who wields the sword.
Jesus, and His word is more powerful than a two-edged sword. Yet His compassion for the tiniest, most helpless humans is unmatched.
Give me the whole Jesus
Son of God and man…
Jesus is the only being who is both God and man. He is the second person of the Trinity…God, the Son. He also was born through a virgin woman, a human being, and became a man in the flesh. And one of His favorite titles for Himself was “Son of Man”.
“˜Cause only Jesus saves…
And only Jesus can! Only Jesus can! Only Jesus can!
This is a message I believe with all my heart…especially since Jesus said this very thing about Himself. Here’s a quote from His very own lips, “No one comes to the Father except through me.”

Seems pretty obvious to me.

Then give me dreams…give me wisdom…
The apostle Peter quoted the prophet Joel where Joel said, “Your old men shall dream dreams”. I figure I qualify now. And the book of the Proverbs mentions, over and over, how important wisdom is. So I thought, “what good are dreams without wisdom to pursue them?”
Give me peace at the end of my days.
Whether I’m taken in a flash or twinkling of an eye…or I lived out my life and die here on earth…the only true and lasting peace will come at the end of my days here in this flesh.
And give me life…everlasting…
In Your world and in Your higher ways.
When I live in the presence of the Lord, it will be life without end. And that will be true because I’ll be in the presence of the very source of Life. Now, that’s the life described as “have it more abundantly” in the book of John.

So, there you have it. That’s the inside lowdown for “Give Me The Whole Jesus.” And it’s one of the 12 songs on my “Raise The Praise” collection. Yeah, my original praise and worship songs. Get the whole collection at https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/raise-the-praise/

You can also get the songbook journal version (with a link to the download version of the songs) on Amazon. Your friendly Amazonian link is: https://www.amazon.com/Raise-Praise-Songbook-Journal-Funderburk/dp/B095WRJBF1

Be sure and let me know how much you liked ’em. Or even how much you didn’t if you didn’t.

Stay tuned,

Posted on May 15, 2023 by TonyJune 1, 2023

War wounds you say? They're probably child's play.

You’ve probably seen one of those movies or TV shows where tough guys (and these days “tough girls”) compare their war wounds. I just saw another one of those comparisons on a rerun of a show I really liked back in the twenty-teens. The first guy said something about a knife slice across his arm. And the second guy one-ups him with a gunshot scar on his shoulder. And so on and so on.

Life can be like that. Wonderful one day. War wounds the next.

One day you’re on your game. And you’re tempted to think you’ve got it goin’ on. But then the next day the hammer drops. And your metaphorical thumb (or even your real one) gets in the way. Bam! War wounds. But you ain’t seen nothin’.

You wanna see real deep and abiding marks? Not just scars in the skin. But also marks across the heart. Well, I can tell you who could tell you a thing or 28 about those kinds of marks. He’s a guy named Paul. And what did he do to attract so much contempt? Well, he dared to usher in a whole new message about God’s grace. How dare he?!

Wait. Play that back again. Paul ushered in a whole new message about God’s grace. Hang on. That actually doesn’t sound like a bad thing. I mean who couldn’t use at least a little extra grace these days? Am I right? < rhetorical question Well, I bet Paul would have wished it could be that simple. But he went through a LOT to share his gospel. In fact, there were 28 marks (indicators) of what it cost him.

1. in much patience
2. in tribulations
3. in needs
4. in distresses
5. in stripes
6. in imprisonments
7. in tumults
8. in labors
9. in sleeplessness
10. in fastings
11. by purity
12. by knowledge
13. by longsuffering
14. by kindness
15. by the Holy Spirit
16. by sincere love
17. by the word of truth
18. by the power of God
19. by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left
20. by honor and dishonor
21. by evil report and good report
22. as deceivers, and yet true
23. as unknown, and yet well known
24. as dying, and behold we live
25. as chastened, and yet not killed
26. as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing
27. as poor, yet making many rich
28. as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.

And those marks are still available if you want some.

Because, these days, even in America, you’re gonna pay dearly, one way or another, if you take a stand for Jesus. So, why would anybody wanna talk about Him and suffer the physical, mental, and emotional war wounds?

Well, that’s because He suffered way more than anyone else will ever suffer. And He did it to make sure I don’t have to suffer forever. Oh yeah, so you don’t have to suffer forever either. Sadly, most people would rather suffer.

I guess they think one day they’ll all compare their war wounds at a crazy cool party in hell. I disagree. But who am I to judge?

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 May 14, 2023 by TonyMay 14, 2023

Mother's Day 2023 just between you and me

I first shared this ten years ago. But it’s evergreen content (as they say in the online marketing world). So, this is just as true for Mother’s Day 2023 as it has been for every Mother’s Day.

Elgielene and I no longer have moms, here on Earth, to send greetings to or to talk with on this day. But we wish all of you moms a very happy Mother’s Day. For 2023 and many more to come.

This is for all of you ladies who “took one for the team” as you…

withstood the months of pregnancy

withstood the pains of childbirth

fed your babies when they cried at 3 a.m.

fixed “boo boos”

kissed away pain

hugged away frowns

cooked breakfasts, made lunches, and prepared dinners

washed clothes even after laundry was all done

taught truth, hope, and love…and readin’, writin’, and ‘rithmetic

fought tangled hair, torn pants, and missing shoestrings

remembered birthdays with just the right proportion of chocolate icing to vanilla ice cream

listened to stories of triumph, tragedy, and utter despair (mostly from teenage girls)

made or bought costumes for every goofy event imaginable

went to plays, sporting events, and music presentations…cheering for that one child who was obviously the natural born talent

brought the “something borrowed” or “something blue” to the bride-to-be just at the right time

danced the mother/son dance with the groom who had been her dragonslayer only “weeks ago” it seems

made special homemade desserts for the kids and grandkids when they came over for Thanksgiving

brought an elegant grace to the process of aging

made us believe there’s a forever, a God who loves us, and a knowledge that we’ll have eternity in paradise

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 May 13, 2023 by TonyMay 31, 2023

The daily routine in this man-made machine

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 remember to thank your government for keeping you covered. Because, without its benign benevolence and actuated authority, I hesitate to think where we’d be.

Of course, your daily routine always includes dangerous times.

Because there are lots of really mad people all around the world. What do you suppose gets so many people so riled up? People aren’t born dangerous. You might say they have to grow into it (in fact, I just did say it). And selfish decisions are the easiest path to danger. Thank goodness you and I don’t have to concern ourselves with all that nonsense. Right?

Yeah, as long as we mind our own business, we can enjoy the daily routine without a care in the world. Just the way God intended. Aah, cue the lilting music and springy, sunshiny video.

(*sudden sound of a turntable needle scratching across a record)

I just read an article that mentioned how a couple of mocha-shaded guys decided they wanted to see what it would be like to “kill a white person.” So, they shot a 66 year old guy in the back, with a hollow point bullet, as he repaired somebody’s mailbox. And the victim was reported to have a mom, in her 90’s, who depended on him.

So, right in the middle of his daily routine, a guy was murdered.

But what makes one person stoop to the lowest level? What has to happen to drive someone to murder? Here’s my answer.

Rebellion.

Someone who can murder a fellow human being is someone who’d rather BE a god than acknowledge the true God. Murderers and rapists and child molesters are the lowest, rebellious scumbags in the world. They’re in such rebellion against God that if He says black, they say white. And if He calls something evil, they call it good.

And true love, the Love of God, is not in them.

Because this world is full of B.S.O.’s, Bright, Shiny Objects. They can be things, possessions, and even other people. And whatever they are, they can demand your complete love and attention. That, to coin the lyrics in a Kim Carnes song, is “where the trouble lies.”

And I believe that tendency is inside you and me, too. But it’s not your own kindness or live-and-let-live attitude that sets you apart from the murderer. It’s either that you’ve acknowledged there IS a Creator God, or that you’ve at least acknowledged that you are NOT God.

One place in the Bible describes that as the beginning of wisdom. And the Bible says “wisdom is the principal thing”. It’s more precious than jewels or gold. Wisdom places a high value on people. Because only people are created in the image and likeness of God. But wisdom is a far removed from wicked people as Heaven is from hell.

So, here’s my recommendation for your time on this dangerous planet.

Grab the Grace of God and never let go. You’re so valuable to God, the Creator of the universe, Maker of Heaven and Earth and all things, that He took a terrible punishment and died for you. And me. And everyone else.

I may sound old-fashioned and out-of-touch…but if so, let me never be modernized to the point of forgetting that “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”

That’s the only news that will take you through the dangerous times of your life.

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 May 12, 2023 by TonyMay 31, 2023

You’ve probably seen or heard those so-called “influencers” who boast (as they insist they’re not boasting) about being able to work from anywhere. And maybe they even show you some tropical sights while a steel drum band delivers up some musical beach sounds. Come to think of it, that doesn’t sound half bad right about now. But I digress (or do I?).

Pardon me for a second while I turn down the beach sounds in my earbuds.

Of course, most of that influencer stuff is hype and silliness. Sure, it can definitely be done. But most hard-working business owners and entrepreneurs don’t live that life. Because they’re too busy serving the needs of their customers and clients.

But I said all that so I could say this.

I used to live a life very much like that. I led the life of a full-time traveling musician. And there were plenty of times I found myself enjoying the beach sounds during the day, and making the music sounds at night. And thinking up new songs to write or learn. I wasn’t rich, but it sure felt like it sometimes. I can very distinctly remember how, sometimes, I’d pinch myself and say “Just think, Tony, someone is actually paying you to sing and play music!”

The venues wanted top 40 and variety.

So, naturally, that’s what I played. Because I had to get paid. But during the day, I could focus on my original music. And I did a LOT of that. If you’ve followed my articles or podcast for a while, you’ve heard me talk about my Motel Sessions. There were lots of those. And today I found one of those songs from one of those sessions in a little beach motel near Padre Island, Texas.

Keep in mind, the emphasis is on Motel Sessions. No studio involved. No vocal booth. Just pure, raw motel room recording. So, when you check out the podcast version of this post, you’ll hear that it’s not a radio ready recording. But I believe it’s very listenable.

It’s a song about a girl (And the crowd gasps! What?! A musician writing a song about a girl?!). Yeah, I know. But hey, I was much younger, unmarried, and a musician. So, the songwriting trifecta. Anyway, it was a girl I only saw a couple of times. Before you jump to any conclusions, we didn’t have a physical relationship. And truth be known, I think bicycling in the salt air did more to inspire me to write the song than anything else.

Anyway I hope you get a kick out of this little peek behind the curtain of time. Below are the lyrics. And you can hear the song when you click or tap on the podcast player button.

Makenzie

She touched me for a moment and held my heart at bay
A feeling took me over more than just these words can say
She had a look about her that could make a man a boy
But she didn’t take advantage; she didn’t play me like a toy.

Now I often write her letters just to let her know she’s here
In the corner of my memory. In my mind; I hold her near.

Makenzie, make that moment ours again.
Makenzie, let me feel the rhythm of your heart.
I wish we could shut down the hands of time.
Why do I have to be apart from you…Makenzie?

She spoke of Colorado, and a light came to her face.
She said she’d never been there but still she loved the place.
And something stirred inside me ’cause we shared that pleasant thought.
And I think I ought to tell her that, for now, my heart is caught.

Posted on May 7, 2023 by TonyMay 17, 2023

The drugs don't work. Did you see that jerk?

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. And maniacs and murderers. Yeah, if that was the goal, the drugs are on the mark.

But the drugs don’t work if the goal is something more benevolent.

And I know, without a shadow of a doubt that benevolence is not the goal of drug manufacturers. Nope. They’re after profits no matter how many lives have to be lost or taken. It should be clear, to anyone who has clear eyes to see, that the medicated masses are heading for hell. And laughing and cursing all the way.

The first video I watched show lots of people who looked like they were zapped with an invisible death ray. Most of them started to spin clockwise, them their arm would extend and stiffen. Then, they’d fall down and die. Typically with arms and legs extended in front of them. It was so weird to watch.

Then, the second video was a collection of people violently attacking other people. And even murdering them. One was a guy who shot another guy. And then walked past the guy he just shot, lying down on the sidewalk, and shot him in the head as he walked casually by as though he just picked a flower.

Have you noticed how people love puppies, but they hate other people? I firmly believe drugs, readily available everywhere, exacerbate that hatred. And a total lack of punishment for crimes actually compounds crimes.

When I punishment for crimes, I include behind-the-scenes crimes.

Those are the ones committed by drug companies and politicians and God-hating billionaires and crooked cops. And everyone else who helps perpetrate crimes against humanity and transfer the blame to others. All those people, and they vastly outnumber people who love God, who literally get away with murder.

Or do they?

Of course they do. But they won’t.

Sounds like I’m contradicting myself. Unless you’ve kept up with me and my worldview over the years. If you have, then you know I talk about righteous judgment and mercy from the one, true, living, loving Creator. Yes, no one can escape the ultimate judgment. You can’t anything to change that. The drugs don’t work.

And that gives me hope. I hope it gives you hope, too. Hope that knows this about people of this world:

You Just Don’t Get It

You want to live the way you want to live
And you want to be your own king
You think you’re wise enough to rule your world
And handle everything
But how much happiness is in your life
How many friends do you know
Who would give up their lives to give you yours
Do you think any would show

Well you idolize with your idle eyes
Your body wants what it wants, and you let it
You identify what you deify
You’ll see the kingdom, but you just don’t get it

You can’t submit to any higher will
You’d rather live in the dark
Well, you can have exactly what you say
Look where you’re making your mark

Chorus

Don’t you think you should think about it
Do you know all there is to know
There’s a choice; you can’t live without it
You can be sure where you’re gonna go…

inst…chorus…repeat to end

Posted on May 6, 2023 by TonyMay 9, 2023

Two things for kids to put their brain on the skids

Remember those AT&T commercials where a man sat at a small table and asked some kids if doing two things is better than doing one. Then, he watched the kids and their reactions. And their funny comments and movements. And it made me think I’ve always enjoyed creating two things for kids. Words. And Music.

I’ve always been that way with kids. I love to ask them questions that challenge their perceptions and perspectives. And then give them a goofy alternative. Their consternation is priceless.

Here’s why I still share those two things for kids on my website.

Because it gives me the opportunity to turn on the switch to the imagination I’ve always had. And I don’t tend to tap into it until I have specific kinds of motivation. Smiles and laughter from kids is good, wholesome motivation.

So, I can be anything or go anywhere. And I can hopefully write it in a way that inspires kids to go along for the ride. Colors can have sounds. And sounds can come to life and sprout wings and fly. They can fly into clouds that turn into eyes. And the eyes can blink out tears that drip into pools of color. And the whole thing can start over again going in a new, fun direction.

Well, that’s my take on it. But I don’t wanna sound like it’s all fairy tales and magic dust. So, I’ll just leave you with this one last, serious, musical thought…

Holla holla moolah…holla holla moolah
Holla holla moolah molay

Joppa joppa joopah…joppa joppa joopah
Joppa joppa joopah jopay

Kenna keena kyna…kenna keena kyna
Kenna keena kyna konay

Wella weela wyla…wella weela wyla
Wella weela wyla wolay

Soli Oh Yo…Soli Oh Yo Yo
Soli Ay Yi…Soli Ay yi yi
And soli Oh Soli Ay Soli Oh Soli Ay
Soli Oh Yi Oh Yi Yo

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 May 5, 2023 by TonyMay 7, 2023

Heartbreak and misery and a guy from Mississippi

Here’s one way to turn somebody else’s heartbreak and misery into a tidy profit.

Many years ago a man found himself too lonely to go on. In fact, he wrote a suicide note saying “I walk a lonely street”. Then, he jumped out of a hotel window to his death.

You might tend to skim over that story of heartbreak and misery. Unless…

Unless you’re somebody who’s deeply affected by that kind of hopelessness and sadness. And then you might decide to do more than just read the story and move on. And, in this case, somebody like that didn’t just move on.

Because the story became a small article in a small newspaper. And singer songwriter, Tommy Durden, read it. He took the article to his friend, a 41 year old English teacher named Mae Axton. And the two of them agreed it might make a good song.

Never heard of Tommy and Mae? Well, it gets better.

Once the two of them finished the song, they looked up a young singer, they knew about, from Mississippi. But he happened to be on the road at the time. But they persisted, finally met with the singer, and a few months later the song was on the radio. And a lot of people said it shouldn’t be released. Because it was connected to suicide.

But, it was definitely released.

And Elvis’ rendition of “Heartbreak Hotel” became his first #1 hit. It was on this date, May 5th, back in 1956.

You and I might never know who jumped out of that window to his death. But the vast majority of us has heard a version of the story told from “The King” himself.

Well, since my baby left me
Well, I found a new place to dwell
Well, it’s down at the end of Lonely Street
At heartbreak hotel

Where I’ll be, I’ll be so lonely baby
Well, I’m so lonely
I’ll be so lonely, I could die.

By the way, there’s no amount of heartbreak and misery for anyone to ever get that lonely. Because you’ve always got someone to turn to. It just takes humility. Enough to realize there IS a King, you are NOT him (neither is Elvis), and your King wants you to live forever with Him.

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)