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Tony Funderburk

The Power of God's Love and Truth

Tony Funderburk delivers your daily truth devotional
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Tony Funderburk Posted on May 3, 2023 by TonyMay 16, 2023
Obvious bias anytime you hear "try us."

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Warning. Blatant and obvious bias just ahead. I’m a musician. And I’m gonna share information with you that emphasizes the powerful, therapeutic advantages of music. So, you might feel yourself being drawn toward buying some of my music. And I want you to know, up front, that’s not my goal.

In fact, I’d prefer you don’t buy music from me.

Because my ultimate goal is to live completely and totally (hmm…I wonder if those mean the same thing) of the government. Sure, you might think that means I’ll be living off hard-working taxpayers (like you?). But that’s not true. Because the government is the go-between. So, no harm, no foul.

Since I haven’t made the total transition (that’s such an enlightened word, right?) to ward of the state, I’m still out here hawking my wares, as it were. And it were as it is. The reality of still having to work (so unfair) to pay for literally everything. From food and water to, get this, gasoline. Yuck and Yikes.

Sadly, hawking my wares also reveals my obvious bias.

And that bias is toward MY wares. And not yours. Or someone else’s. Although, I sneak in links to other people’s cheap stuff, I mean wares, all the time. You gotta be sharp to find ’em though. Because my website and emails ain’t about them other people. I pay for ’em. So, they’re about ME.

And that brings me back to the therapeutic advantages of music.

Music can help with your immune system, brain function, and anxiety. Sure, you might be a Type A personality. But that doesn’t mean you can’t still benefit from all those, uh, benefits.

Naturally (maybe even organically) you might wonder what that’s got to do with my musical wares. And you’d be right to wonder. So, here’s the thing. Maybe you still hold fast to the idea that kids are cute and innocent and should be protected. Yada yada yada.

I’m not sayin’ that’s my thing.

But if it’s yours, check out Lullabye Bye. It’s a collection of lullabies for kids that parents say isn’t too cutesy for adults to listen to, too (love that ballerina sentence end). The songs contain subliminal, sleep-inducing messages. So, if your kid falls asleep, while listening, that’s on you. I didn’t force you to play the songs. It’s your choice. Let’s be clear about that up front.

OK. I know I’ve made it basically impossible to find a way to go get the music. But you’re just gonna have to dig a little deeper. Because I don’t want you to stumble into a purchase you don’t want.

Now, where did I put that government cheese I have an obvious bias for? Or for which I have a bias?

Stay tuned,

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Posted in music for kids, sound healing, The TRUTH Journal, Tony Funderburk | Tagged lullaby songs, music for kids, rhyme and reason podcast, state of mind
Tony Funderburk Posted on May 2, 2023 by TonyMay 15, 2023
Christians today still do it their way

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The first century Christians were committed to one another. Christians today? Not so much. Sure, there are small cliques. But, as a whole, it’s a divided faith. And splintered, sometimes, by just the meaning of a single verse. Or even a single word. Want an example?

OK. Christians today split up over the word, tithe.

I just scanned an article with this title: “Which denomination tithes the most?”

And that, inadvertently, addresses a big part of the issue. Because human nature seeks to “be number one.” And that includes the giving department. So, the article shared lots of demographics from a 10 day study of denominations. How ’bout I share just a few snippets?

“Eighty percent of people who attend a worship service at least four times a month agreed that tithing is a biblical commandment compared to 72% of respondents who attend a worship service one to three times a month.”

Hmm. Wonder how many tithing messages the first group hears as opposed to the second group.

Here’s an age-related stat. 66% of young adult respondents between the ages of 18 and 34 were less likely to believe tithing is a Biblical commandment. And I think that’s interesting. Because tithing IS undeniably a commandment (or law) found in the Bible. But it’s crucial to understand where it’s found and why.

Then, the article shared some numbers about amounts.

Before I share that, it’s important to know (if you don’t) that tithe means a tenth. And that’s the command God handed down to the Jews. To give a tenth of all they had.

So, on that note, notice what Christians today, and even many of those Jews, do and did.

“Thirty-one percent told pollsters they give a tithe and 19% said they give more than 10% of their income. Meanwhile, 16% said they donate less than 10% of their income to their church. Nine percent of respondents reported that their financial situation makes it difficult to give, and 2% said that they did not give.”

Yeah, if God says give a tenth, then I should give more. Because, well, because I say so. And if it feels good to me, then I’m sure God will be even more impressed with me. Or at least other people will once I’ve informed them that I give even more than God says.

I know, from personal experience, that Christians boast about giving their tithe AND even more. Because benevolence should be spotlighted. Right? Wait. Wasn’t there a left hand right hand thing?

Now, I would never urge you to believe what I say just because I’m a trustworthy guy. I believe I am, but I’m not the authority. You find that in the Bible. And if it says “the law kills” and that the Grace of God is “not of works” (which includes the tithe), then that’s the truth. My goal is to agree with it. And to keep “rightly dividing the word of truth.” And I urge Christians today (you and me) to…

Take A Stand

If you take a stand and you stand for the Way,
You might never be rich.
But no gold here beats the treasure in Heaven,
And you’ll know which is which.

Angels are gonna rejoice,
And we’re gonna get to see how
The Lord will judge the ones who wait.
So better take a stand right now.

If you take a stand and you stand for the Truth,
You could lose a good friend.
But if you lose the whole wide world
And keep your soul, you win in the end.

All eyes are gonna look up.
All knees are gonna bow,
And when that time comes it’s too late.
You gotta take a stand right now.

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.

© 2008

Posted in Bible study, Ephesians, II Timothy, The TRUTH Journal, Tony Funderburk, Words and Music | Tagged Bible study, Christians today, rhyme and reason podcast, tithes and offerings
Tony Funderburk Posted on May 1, 2023 by TonyMay 1, 2023
May day, make hay, no way day

Whew! We almost didn’t get our May Day tree up in time. And it took some time, but we managed to get the May Day lights out of the storage space above the garage without injury.

So, here we are. Sipping our May Day cocoa.

It seems like only yesterday when we’d sit around and listen to the adults talk about how a delightful family of socialist groups and trade unions started it all. Back in 1889 they designated May 1 as a special day to recognize workers. After all, workers are what make our great country…uh…work.

And the adults would laugh and go on and on about it was a special day to remember something they called a hay market riot. Or something like that. It happened in Chicago is all I know. So, it must’ve included deep dish pizza.

Anyway…

Evidently President Grover Cleveland wasn’t comfortable with the special holiday’s connection to socialism. So, he signed legislation to be observed on the first Monday in September. And it’s been that way ever since. Just to honor workers.

Yes, these memories transport me back to a much simpler time.

Back when workers could unite against capitalism. And celebrate communist military might. In fact, I remember another wonderful occasion old Uncle Dieter would repeat to anyone who’d listen. How Labor Day became an official German holiday, in 1933, when the Nazis took over.

(side note: Germany also abolished free unions the day after setting up the holiday. So much for the labor movement. But who’s counting?)
Of course, I can’t forget how the adults recalled the May Day connection to pagan festivals. And how important and inclusive it all is.

And that’s probably why May Day is still such a  public holiday in many parts of the world. Yep, people still organize picnics and parties, for this day, to show support of workers.

Hey! You’re a worker, aren’t you? Well, sit still and let me go get you some cocoa. When I get back, you can tell me any May Day memories you can remember.

Sound good?

Open my ears that I may hear
Voices of truth Thou sendest clear;
And while the wave notes fall on my ear,
Everything false will disappear.

Stay tuned,

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Share this link with everybody you know, so they can jump on the The TRUTH
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Posted in current events, Tony Funderburk, Truth Bombs | Tagged current events, May Day, socialism
Tony Funderburk Posted on April 30, 2023 by TonyMay 13, 2023
Wondering around in the sight and the sound
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Ever wonder why God made everything the way He did? If you don’t believe in God, you might as well skip past me and my writing. Because I’m gonna be wondering around creation for just a bit. And you might find my words of adoration and love too syrupy.

And I said “wondering around” on purpose.

Here’s the Tony take. And I think it IS (or should be) clear that none of us, still on Earth, can know exactly why God made things the way He did. But I think the Bible clearly shows His desire to stay connected to us. Even as He does not force that connection.

I remember a pastor’s message, several years ago, when he illustrated how it seems to please God to do so much for us. And when you consider His ultimate sacrifice, it’s difficult to imagine He’d do that for us humans who’ve betrayed Him in every generation.

Yes, that includes Every. Single. Person.

You and I need God’s love. Maybe more than any other generation who ever lived. But this world would have you wondering around in a daze. And wandering around in a perpetual wilderness.

So, the key is a focus perspective. Marketers, these days, like to use the phrase “eyes on the prize.” And they think it’s some modern mantra. But a guy named Paul wrote about that perspective a couple of thousand years ago.

I’m a poet. A wordsmith. So, I use words to point to God. I love to ponder the wonders of creation. But I love the answer to those questions even more.

Like the Q&A in these lyrics…

Why is the sky blue? Why is the grass green?
And why’s the sun gold? What does it all mean?
Why is the air clear? And why’s the ground brown?
Why does the earth float and never fall down?

Cause God made skies. He made them blue.
He made the world for me and you
And all because it pleased Him to.
God loves us through and through.

Why is a horse fast? And why’s a snail slow?
Why does it get cold when Northern winds blow?
Why is the sea green? And why’s the sand white?
Why is the day day? Why is the night night?

Cause God made creatures big and small,
And sand and seas; He made them all.
And even if we trip and fall
God helps us to stand tall.

God’s love is always there.
His love will never die.
And so you can trust in Him
For all your questions why…

© Tony Funderburk 2008

Posted in Bible study, Philippians, The TRUTH Journal, Tony Funderburk, Words and Music | Tagged amazing wonder, answers in Genesis, creation science, rhyme and reason podcast
Tony Funderburk Posted on April 29, 2023 by TonyApril 29, 2023
Gnats, flies, and a scuff on my eyes

Gnats. Flies. If you’re like most people, just the mention of those little buggers is annoying. Because that’s what they are. Annoying. And the reason I brought ’em up is because of my eyeglasses.

Not because gnats and flies are hovering around my glasses.

But because I scuffed one of the lenses, recently. And now, there’s an annoying blur in front of everything I read or write. When I tilt my head a little more forward, I can alleviate the aggravation a little. But then I have to deal with a little bit of neck strain. So, gnaturally, I checked the “trusty” internet for scuff solutions.

There’s no shortage of suggestions. And, as it is with so much “advice” these days, you gotta take it with a grain (or shaker) of salt. Because most “hacks” suggest solutions that actually add to the problem. Maybe not short term. But definitely long term.

Keep in mind, I’m a cheapskate when it comes to this kind of thing. I don’t buy into the whole renew-your-eyeglass-prescription-every-year thing. And I prefer a DIY, holistic approach to health in general.

So, I go a little further into research than just a YouTube video. And this isn’t a recommendation to you or anyone else to do this same thing. Because you might/probably have a much better use for your time.

But I’m willing to endure a little discomfort or inconvenience for the sake of learning something I could possibly use over and over. Because, over the course of decades, it could be a HUGE time saver. And, in this age of poor workmanship and even poorer customer service, DIY ability is crucial.

So, I’ll find me an eyeglass scuff solution today.

And, if you’re interested in what it was and how it worked, just ask. I’ll let you know what I found out.

Eyeglasses are vitally important to me. I’ve worn them since I was a teenager. And I never wanted to risk injury to my eyeballs with contact lenses. I know lots of people have no problem with them. But some do. And I don’t want to take the chance that I’d be one of them. Blindness or permanent blurred vision or eye surgeries are options I’d like to skip.

Sort of weird that I’d start out writing about gnats and flies and end up talking about blindness, right?

Yeah, I’ve said it before. The Tony take on life and the world is sometimes a deep dive into odd, but probably divinely inspired, analyses, theories, and wonderment.

So, maybe you get something out of today’s meandering. And maybe you don’t. Either way, I gotta get back to my eyeglass scuff repair research.

Thankfully this partially blurred vision doesn’t extend down into my soul.

Got the sails up and a port in mind.
There’s a cool wind, blowing strong and kind.
Leaving doubt and fear so far behind…
I can see now where I once was blind.

© 2016

Stay tuned,

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Posted in current events, healthy habits, Tony Funderburk | Tagged current events, healthy habits, Tony Funderburk
Tony Funderburk Posted on April 27, 2023 by TonyMay 12, 2023
Vitriolic sphere is a fear so near

It’s a weird and wicked world. And all the worldly dots are connected. And I arrived at this thought due to following along some of those dots just now. One leap led me to discover what a vitriolic sphere is. Check out this description I found:

“You point at a place within range, and a glowing 1-foot ball of emerald acid streaks there and explodes in a 20-foot radius. Each creature in that area must make a Dexterity saving throw. On a failed save, a creature takes 10d4 acid damage and 5d4 acid damage at the end of its next turn. On a successful save, a creature takes half the initial damage and no damage at the end of its next turn.

At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a spell slot of 5th level or higher, the initial damage increases by 2d4 for each slot level above 4th.”

That 1-foot ball of emerald acid is known as a vitriolic sphere.

And, if you’re not a “gamer,” maybe that description sounds almost like a foreign language. I’d actually consider that a type of blessing. Because it means you haven’t fallen into that pitiful pit.

And I say that because of the different definitions of vitriolic. The online Merriam-Webster dictionary defines vitriolic as 1) bitterly harsh or caustic language or criticism AND 2) a sulfate of any of various metals (such as copper, iron, or zinc) especially : a glassy hydrate of such a sulfate.

I’m sure the gamers would prefer to focus on the second definition. But ultimately it’s just a dot connected to the first definition. Because you certainly wouldn’t explode a ball of emerald acid on someone as an act of love. Right? No. My guess (and I use that term lightly) is that hate would be the motivator.

But here’s the Tony Take on it.

Hate IS a vitriolic sphere. Because when you throw it out there, it WILL circle back to you. Cause and effect. But in the case of hate, the effect is not less than the cause.

And you can see the effects all around this vitriolic sphere known as Earth.

Hatred is literally tangible. Not the force of it. But the effect. Many American city streets are filled with zombified human beings. What some would call the dregs of society. Walking around in drug-induced stupors. Wreaking havoc on themselves and those around them. I’ve seen them. And I’ve noticed how there’s only darkness behind their eyes.

But you know what’s good for that kind of darkness?

If you guessed sunlight, come on up here to the head of the class.

But here’s what’s even better than sunlight. The Son’s Light.

And, never fear. Because it’s that Light that’ll renew this mean ol’ sphere we live on, one day, into an extension of Heaven again. Of course, the force behind that action is the opposite of vitriol. And it’s the only reason you and I aren’t already swimming in flames.

Gimme The Light

Well the light shines, and it’s coming from above.
I can’t ignore it because I know deep down it’s Love,
And it shows me that the time is close at hand,
And I’m beginning to think I might just understand.

I’ve waited so long for the perfect time and place,
And made a whole lot of mistakes I can’t erase.
Destined to live in darkness I supposed,
But you can’t see the Light when your eyes are closed.

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

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

repeat bridge & chorus…inst…repeat chorus twice

© 1998

Stay tuned,

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Share this link with everybody you know, so they can jump on the The TRUTH
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Posted in John, life is beautiful, The TRUTH Journal, Tony Funderburk, Words and Music | Tagged haters gonna hate, life here on earth, rhyme and reason podcast, vitriolic sphere
Tony Funderburk Posted on April 26, 2023 by TonyApril 26, 2023
Trans community with complete impunity

I’ve seen and heard so many wackadoos talk about the “trans community” as if the rest of the world is supposed to accept them as a “normal” thing. Or they call on each other to stand up for the “trans family.” Because, these days, most people don’t even know what a family is.

Sadly, even Christians give the “trans community” almost total impunity.

And that’s an even sadder commentary on the condition of the Christian churches who don’t oppose it. Because when churches are willing to accept what God rejects, that’s not gonna bode well in the future. Not to mention, but I will, the present downward spiral toward irrelevancy.

Now, here’s a Tony take on the whole “trans” thing. It should actually be for Christians. WE should be the trans community. Yeah. Why? Because it’s what God told Paul to tell us. And it’s the only trans that’s actually real. Not just some demented, self-mutilating shadow trans.

But don’t take my word for it. Look it up. Do a word search, in your Bible software (if you don’t have Bible software, use the link to get some). Look up the word “transformed.”

Depending on which Bible version you use your results might be slightly different than mine. But the results I got were all in Paul’s writings. That means the message is written directly to ME. And you. And anyone who chooses to trust the Way, the Truth, and the Life.

They destroy their bodies. We get new ones.

Because they (yes, I’m using that pronoun for emphasis), believe they can be formed into a new person by cutting off body parts. But we, the “people of the book,” become totally new people in the blink of an eye. By having our total body cut off and replaced with a glorified new one.

It’s not a boy/girl thing. It’s a sinner/saved thing.

You can’t be both a boy AND a girl. And you can’t change from one into the other. You also can’t be both a sinner AND a saved person, and live in Heaven. But you CAN change from one into the other.

Now, THAT’S what I call a trans community. People who are transformed by the renewing of their minds. And not cons like all those wackadoos, conformed to this world. Those who’d have you believe you can chop yourself up and be a whole ‘nother gender.

Reject the deluded pretender
Who wants to demolish your gender.
Accept your eternal Defender.
Just humble yourself and surrender.

Stay tuned,

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Share this link with everybody you know, so they can jump on the The TRUTH
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Posted in current events, Rhymes, Romans, Tony Funderburk | Tagged grow and transform, renew your mind, trans community
Tony Funderburk Posted on April 25, 2023 by TonyMay 9, 2023
Third choice and your voice is a Rolls Royce

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You ALWAYS have a third choice. Despite what 99% of movies, TV shows, and songs would have you believe, you do.

When you’re told you only have two choices, take a little time to think that through. Very often, the reason they say that is just because that’s what they’ve heard. And the people who told them that heard it somewhere else. And so on, and so on, and so on. Two choices becomes a dark tunnel of no return.

But a third choice can be like a floodlight.

As I write this, it’s an early Tuesday morning. I hear the early birds singing outside. And the rest of the neighborhood is quiet and peaceful. That’s the kind of peace you can have, in this chaotic, confused world, when you understand the value of a third choice.

That old “lesser of two evils” way of choosing has gotta go. Because it creates a swampy whirlpool. And you don’t wanna get caught in it when it’s flushed down to hell. And it will be flushed one day.

According to some well-known (and well-intentioned) marketers, I’m not supposed to just tell you about this. I’m supposed to storify it. Because everyone enjoys a good story. But not many, if any, enjoy being told what to do or not do. So, since I certainly don’t want to do that to you, check this out.

A restaurant owner was shot by burglars. Fortunately, paramedics got to him before he bled out. And they rushed him to the hospital. He was conscious as they wheeled him into the ER surgery unit. But he could see the looks on the doctors faces. He could tell they didn’t think there was much hope.

Before they started to operate, someone asked him if he was allergic to anything. He said, “Yes. Bullets.” And they laughed. So, he said, “Look, I’m choosing to live. So operate on me as though I’m alive. Not dead.” And thanks to his attitude, and their skill, he pulled through with flying colors.

Hopefully you gleaned the third choice from that.

Your life can benefit from your courage and conviction, too. Refuse to accept the status quo narrative. Be creative. Get wisdom. And courage.

Be the better man or woman your Creator has in mind for you. Ask God to help you trust Him for better choices. Following Him and His advice will never lead into dark places. In fact, following Him will make you a light in dark places. Ready to shine? Then refuse to assimilate and…

Learn Those Lines

Back in nineteen seventy-three
I believed the whole world would be
Just as free as the dreams that dwelled inside me.
Maybe I was naive and young.
Maybe life was speaking in tongues.
I would say let the bells of freedom be rung.
But time can temper the freest of souls.
Life has ways of changing our goals.
If we play a part, who hands out the roles?

Learn those lines…everybody…learn those lines.
Let that little green monster tell you what to say.
Learn those lines…everybody…learn those lines.
Just remember what you do comes back to you someday.

Back in nineteen and eighty-four
We thought big brother was right at the door,
But he came in through the TV and stuff at the store.
Maybe I’ve grown older and fat.
Maybe I’m not the virginal cat
Who could sit on a side and be proud where he sat.
Now, we chase the innocuous cause…
Standing for and laying down laws.
Yeah, we walk like the cat, but we don’t have the claws.

Learn those lines…everybody…learn those lines.
Let that little green monster tell you what to do.
Learn those lines…everybody…learn those lines.
Just remember what you do is gonna come back to you.

We can’t go back…and we can’t stay here,
If we can’t throw away the fear
And change those lines…those lines we learn, they burn.

© 1989-2017 Tony Funderburk

Stay tuned,

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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 in current events, healthy habits, The TRUTH Journal, Tony Funderburk | Tagged be wise, get wise, rhyme and reason podcast, third choice
Tony Funderburk Posted on April 24, 2023 by TonyMay 8, 2023
Play dough and the big no-no

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The history of Play Dough (also known as Play Doh) is interesting. Because it actually started out as a product to help people clean the wallpaper in their homes.

Wait. Play Dough cleaned walls? Huh?

Yeah, a guy named Cleo McVicker created the stuff back in the 1930’s. His soap company, Kutol Products, was about to go out of business. But he negotiated a contract, with the Kroger grocery chain, to make an easy-to-use wallpaper cleaner. Because, back then, a lot of houses in America used coal stoves and heaters. And the soot would build up on their wallpapered walls.

But, after World War II, a lot of, if not most, families converted those coal-based stove and heaters to oil and gas. And eventually electric, of course. And poor Mr. McVicker’s company started to tank again.

After Cleo died in 1949, his son, Joseph, took over the Kutol Products business and had to deal with keeping it going. Fortunately his sister-in-law was a school teacher.

Uh, what? Did somebody say “school teacher?”

What’s that got to do with play dough? Thanks for asking, invisible internet voice. Joseph’s sister-in-law, Kay Zufall, invited him to check out her young schoolchildren’s creations they had made using Kutol Products as sort of a crafting clay.

Naturally, Mr. McVicker liked what he saw. And he went back to the factory to reformulate and repurpose that special product. The great news was that they could use the same heavy-duty equipment and manufacturing space they already had. But now, the end product would be a child’s toy instead of wallpaper cleaner.

I remember playing with Play Dough (or Play Doh) when I was a kid. In school. And at home. And to this day, I could probably travel back in time, in my head, with just a sniff of the stuff. I love a story of classic Americana like that. Especially when it’s simple ingredients that kids love to squish between their fingers and mold into other shapes.

But isn’t it freakishly sad how many school kids, these days, believe they themselves are some sort of play doh? They believe they can mold their own bodies into an entirely different gender. So, they have parts cut off. And they “add stuff to the recipe,” so to speak. Like hormones. And blockers. And skin grafts. Doctor Frankenstein would be so proud.

I’ve seen hundreds of comments about it on social media.

Of course, those adults (and I hesitate to call them that), who “support” those children in their quest to find their “gender identity,” actually will go as far as to pay to have their daughters’ breasts removed. Or their sons’ genitalia removed.

It sounds like a horror movie. But it’s a horror reality show. And it’s playing 24/7 right here in the so-called “greatest nation” on Earth. America has rapidly devolved into dark den of iniquity. And that’s just an old-fashioned way of saying it’s a freak show.

Ironically, AND shamefully, many parents who say they’d “never hit a child” have no problem paying for operation to help those children “transition” from a boy to a girl. Or from a girl to a boy.

But the idiotic part is, no person can transition from one gender to another. You and I are not dough. We’re human beings, created in the image and likeness of God. So, when you received the gametes, from your parents, that determined you’d either have XX Chromosomes or XY Chromosomes, your gender was unalterably created.

So, please celebrate the girl-ness of your girls. And the boy-ness of your boys. It takes both to make more humans. Regardless of how Frankensteinian future AI medical “marvels” get. They’ll still need male and female genetics.

Anything else IS, and always will be, a mutant.

And I don’t recommend being on that side of history. Don’t be a Play Duh!

Girls and Boys

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

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Posted in creation science, current events, The TRUTH Journal, theories of origin, Tony Funderburk | Tagged creation science, current events, male and female, play dough, rhyme and reason podcast
Tony Funderburk Posted on April 23, 2023 by TonyApril 23, 2023
Lovers and friends and how the truth mends

When I mention the phrase, lovers and friends, your reaction might be influenced by your age. For example, a younger generation might think of a music festival that features “nostalgic hip-hop and R&B.” And an older generation might remember lyrics from a Beatles song:

All these places have their moments.
With lovers and friends, I still can recall.
Some are dead and some are living.
In my life, I’ve loved them all.

Lovers and friends came to my mind, today, because of hatred.

I know how, at first glance, that sounds counterintuitive. But see if this makes sense to you.

Have you noticed how the world is obsessed with selfies? And money? And pleasure and leisure? Anyone who hasn’t  noticed, I wonder where you’ve been. Also, if you’ve paid attention to social media and so-called “news” reporters, you surely couldn’t have missed how much more brutal and unforgiving criminals have become.

I recently saw a video clip of some young guys who sneaked up behind an old lady and stole something from her. And after they grabbed what they wanted, they hit her in the head and knocked her to the ground. Sadly, that’s not an isolated incident. Young people are attacking older people, defenseless young women, and even kids at an alarming rate. And people of all colors, creeds, and countries despise what is actually good and wholesome.

And the vast majority of kids disobey to their parents. That’s if and when they even listen to them. Because they’re parents bargain with them. Or debate with them. And, as a result, kids are headstrong while parents are head weak. Plus, self-control is almost non-existent in humans of all ages.

Then, there are the “tolerant” beautiful people.

You know, the ones who love their money, influence, and power more than they love their neighbors. And the killers who shoot somebody, on camera, in a store, in the daytime. And they walk past their victim, who’s on the floor, and shoot them again on the way out of the store. Totally void of love, forgiveness, and a respect for right and wrong.

America is flooded with traitors and those who aid and abet them. This country is overflowing with brutal people who murder for the cost of a “fix.” Or even just to “see what it felt like.”

And maybe you’ve noticed the HUGE spike in human trafficking? Most of those who are abducted become work slaves or sex slaves. There seems to be no low level they won’t stoop to.

My observations are based on what I see in America, where I live and from what I read about what goes on in the rest of the world. We have technology that gives us access to information 24/7/365. And yet, with all that learning, very few ever reach the knowledge and value of truth. Actual validated, verified, and viable truth.

For Christians (at least those who read the Bible), this is horrible. But not surprising. Because Paul told us it would be like this. He described everything I just wrote about with incredible accuracy. It’s almost as though he got some inside information about the future. And Paul had some strong words for Christians. But I suggest you do NOT go read those words if you don’t appreciate masculine teaching.

Like Paul, I’m an optimist.

With an optimism based on facts and promises. So, I don’t worry or live in fear of what’s going on in this world. In spite of its scarcity of true lovers and friends. Because, ultimately, this is where I live for just a little while.

In This World (but not of it)

I’m in this world but not of it.
I like this life but don’t love it.
My Savior rises above it.
I’m in this world but not of it.

This world can beat me up.
But this world is not my home.
I have a finer place where I will forever roam.

This world’s no easy street.
This world is not so nice.
It costs a lot to leave,
But my Father paid the price.

So…Chorus

This world has lots of love,
But this world is filled with hate.
One day it won’t be so,
And so I can hardly wait.

This world has moans and groans.
This world has aches and pain,
But soon even this shall pass,
Jesus the King will reign.

Chorus…inst…chorus 3 times

© 2008

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Posted in II Timothy, tolerance and diversity, Tony Funderburk, Words and Music | Tagged love and hate, lovers and friends, tolerance and diversity
Tony Funderburk Posted on April 22, 2023 by TonyApril 22, 2023
Believe a lie till it makes you die

They happen to the rich and poor, the beautiful and ugly. And to the short and tall, the fat and thin. Even the old AND young. I’m talking about issues of the day. Trouble is, most of America prefers to sleepwalk through them now. Because it’s easier to watch a TV program, or play a video game, or cheer on sports teams than it is to take a stand. It’s easier to believe a lie than it is to expose one.

But when you believe a lie, another one pops up.

And the next lie is usually a little bigger. Or more devilishly clever. And, after a few more fiendish layers are added, it becomes more difficult to discern truth from lies. Facts from fiction. It’s exactly how some guy, named Adolph, enticed an entire nation to go along with his crimes against humanity.

But, I don’t want your blood pressure to get too high. So, take a break from my opinionated recollection of history and listen to this awesome instrumental song.

Here’s the link, in case you don’t see the video automatically: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2rwfqsjimRM)

Sleepwalk, by Santo and Johnny is my favorite instrumental pop tune of all time.

My favorite composer is still Beethoven.

But, like I said, this is a pop tune. Far removed from long-hair classical music. And it’s such a classic, nostalgic piece of music for me. Every time I hear it, I’m transported back to a place and time where innocence still existed in most places. And most dreams hadn’t been squashed forever, yet.

I love the short story Dick Clark shares about how Santo and Johnny came up with the song. It’s almost as if a song called “Sleepwalk” was written because of a sleepwalk experience. And the song shows so much more emotion from a slide guitar than the typical country or island song with the same instrumentation.

Don’t you feel better now. I certainly do. I DO. I’m not lyin’. And, if I were, I’d just use ALL CAPS AND LOTS OF !!!!!! to get you to believe the lie. Then, I could control your mind. Even when you sleepwalk, deep in the middle of the night, after too many wild wings during your favorite sports team’s antics on their fields or floors of battle.

Stay tuned,

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Posted in current events, music history, Tony Funderburk, Truth Bombs | Tagged believe a lie, music history, what you believe
Tony Funderburk Posted on April 21, 2023 by TonyApril 21, 2023
Thinking ahead for parts that aren't dead

Imagine you’re a 5 year old girl. No, you’re NOT a trans freak 5 year old girl. An actual 5 year old girl. And imagine a doctor tells your parents you have sickle-cell anemia. Then, by age 11, you get so sick your parents move to another country just so you can get a bone transplant from your brother. And, at 13, doctors decide you’ll need chemotherapy. They know kids endure this treatment much better than adults. But they also know you show signs of puberty. And they know chemo has a high risk of damaging your ovaries. So, they start thinking ahead.

Now, imagine those doctors (with the consent of your parents) remove part of your right ovary and freeze it. Because they hope someone will be able to graft it back in when you mature.

Wow. That’s really thinking ahead.

And it’s very optimistic. Which I find almost non-existent in the medical community.

Anyway…

Let’s say about 10 years later, when you’re 15, doctors DO graft four parts of that frozen ovarian tissue back into your remaining ovary. Sounds like something out of a Frankenstein movie. Right? So, do you think that patched-up, morphed ovary could begin growing eggs? And dven if it did, could that lead to pregnancy?

Would you believe me if I told you it happened?

Yep, what you’ve just read is from a true story. Not just an imaginary tale I dreamed up.

And when the young woman reached her middle twenties, she became pregnant. And gave birth to a baby boy who was healthy and almost 7 pounds. I’ve read a couple of articles about this event. And everyone is happy about how it turned out. But I’ve haven’t seen anyone mention how it’s an incredible display of God’s design. After all, this happened despite the fact that our human gene pool is so diluted and broken now.

So, I’ll say it.

You can’t take parts of a 13 year old girl’s ovary, and freeze them, then graft them back in about 10 years later, and witness them produce eggs, and the young woman gets pregnant, without design!

And not just any design. We’re talkin’ infinitely complex and wonderfully coded information. And only a loving God could or would do that. He created the very information found in each cell of our bodies. And from His Spirit, He poured life into that information. We humans have come a long way. So far, in fact, that we can now freeze embryos and body parts and put them back into use years later.

But we still can’t create Life…

We need to be (we should be and I am) grateful to the one true, living, loving God who encoded my cells with information. Information that said I’d have blue eyes, blond hair (well, it used to be), be a male, and have fingers and toes. And information that said my heart would beat on its own, my brain would interpret sensory experiences, and my eyes would encode and decode images in nanoseconds.

God’s information in our cells and our souls means we not only have life, but we can also be aware of our own existence. And He designed us to be fruitful and multiply.

So, let’s pass on that information boldly.

And share it with all the love we can muster.

I got a little bit from my mom
I got a little bit from my dad
I got my DNA from the great Yahweh
And it’s the only life I’ve had

Twenty-three plus twenty-three is one
Chromosomes were a mystery
But that mystery is gone.
Twenty-three plus twenty-three is one.
Until we learn to add it up…
The lesson must go on.

Stay tuned,

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Posted in choose life, life is beautiful, Rhymes, Tony Funderburk | Tagged creation science, life from life, thinking ahead
Tony Funderburk Posted on April 20, 2023 by TonyApril 20, 2023
Normal time ended up in this rhyme

When I was a kid, I lived part-time in Texas and part-time in Kansas. And my time in Texas was city life while my time in Kansas was in a rural town of about 1500 people. But because America’s states were still more “united” back then, I still experienced normal time year ’round. And, of course, I took it for granted.

Because normal time was…well…the norm.

Back then (granted, back then, for me, is pretty far back), during the waning days of normal time in America, I experienced the sheer, delightful thrill of riding a bike.

And when I was a full-time road musician, years later, I bought a fat tire mountain bike. I mounted it to the back of my Toyota pickup and took it all around America, wherever my bookings took me. And I loved the freedom I felt, on long rides, as the wind rushed through my long hair (remember, envy is a sin).

I really dived into the world of biking. And it was nothing for me to ride 20 miles a day. From the humid coastal areas to the arid mountain west. Unless the weather was prohibitive, I made time to get on my metal horse and ride.

There’s a term they use to describe that time you’re riding and it feels effortless. Even in high gear. It’s called freewheeling. Mostly that feeling comes after a long, difficult climb. But sometimes it’s just on a straight, flat run through the countryside. Where you can think back and connect to that normal time.

I wrote a song about it in 1988. And the original lyrics focused on the exhilarating feeling of freewheeling. But back in 2020 I updated the lyrics and instrumentation and recorded a new version. And that new composition focuses on the connection I make to God as I freewheel on a bike. Here are the lyrics. Hope they strike a chord with you.

Freewheel

It’s another day in the land of everything
It’s another day so full of expectation
I’m gonna grab my bike and head for the sunrise
Gonna give my mind a brand new elevation.

When I spin my wheels, it’s just like makin’ music.
I can hear the song of life play inside my ears.
Ain’t got no time to live an ordinary day
Yeah, I’m lookin’ up because that’s where hope appears.

I’m gonna freewheel back to my own free will
I’m gonna pedal away at the speed of light
‘Cause when you freewheel back to your own free will
It’s so easy to see life don’t have to squeeze so tight
Freewheel!

I can feel the weight of my life just float away
Then I feel the sun melt down the cold frustration
And so I point my bike to pick up a tailwhind
And sail down the road to my brand new destination 

chorus

Freewheelin’ don’t give me all of the answers
But questions don’t bother me out here at all.
Reality helps me diminish illusions
And I get a second wind to break through the wall.

chorus…inst…chorus…to end

© 1988-2023

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Posted in music history, road stories, Tony Funderburk, Words and Music | Tagged mountain bike, normal time, nostalgic memories
Tony Funderburk Posted on April 19, 2023 by TonyApril 19, 2023
Birthday cakes that no one bakes

89. Seems strange to think. But that’s how old my Dad would be, today, if he was still around to celebrate his birthday here on Earth. But if birthdays are still celebrated in Heaven, that’s where he has celebrated the last 38 of his. Because he only had 51 birthday cakes on Earth.

My guess is, Dad hasn’t missed birthday cakes.

Of course, he misses me. Because, duh. Who wouldn’t? But he knows we’ll see each other again.

Both my parents are now in Heaven. And I find great comfort in knowing that. And I feel sorry for all the billions of people on the planet who don’t have that hope and joy and comfort. Especially those who ridiculously believe when you die, it’s all darkness. Over. Because, for them, time on Earth is just not enough. And they do whatever they can to make up for the loss of hope.

Sadly, there’s nothing you or I or anyone can do to rustle up hope if there’s nothing after this life. That just means there’s an “eternity” of nothingness to face and endure.

I’d rather live in hope and expectation that I’ll live forever in paradise with God. Where no gold, silver, or even birthday cakes can compare with the Truth who’s there.

And where I’ll dance on…

Fandango Street

Dwight was a boy anybody would employ
‘Cause he worked his fingers to the bone.
But he said he had to fly, get a piece of the sky.
So he took off for the great unknown.
Everybody said no, no, no.
But he still had to go
To make his whole life complete
And look for Fandango Street.

He took himself a wife as he made the change of life
And the boy became a regular man.
They had a couple kids just like everybody did.
But it really wasn’t in the plan.
And his spirit said no, no, no.
That’s not the way you should go.
Should be pointing your feet
On up to Fandango Street.

Oh, but somewhere the world took over
And left him thirsting for more.
Where was the milk and the honey
He had dreamed of all those years before?

He was moving right along feeling permanently strong
Thinking all he had to do was behave.
But a terminal disease slowly drove him to his knees.
And it took him to an early grave.
And his family said no, no, no.
But he still had to go
To make the journey complete
And look for Fandango Street.

And to this day I say no, no, no.
But I know he had to go.
To make the journey complete
And look for Fandango Street.
I hear him tapping his feet…up on Fandango Street.
And so his life is complete…he dance on Fandango Street!

© 1992

Happy Birthday Dad!

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Posted in Tony Funderburk, Words and Music | Tagged birthday cakes, moms and dads
Tony Funderburk Posted on April 17, 2023 by TonyMay 7, 2023
Rant and rave and misbehave

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I’m gonna rant and rave. And, although I can’t speak for him (especially since he’s got other things on his mind besides music, these days) I think Buddy Holly would back me up on this. If you’ve never heard of Buddy Holly, or don’t know any of his music, that reference is gonna be way over your ears.

Anyway…

My rant and rave is about your rants and raves.

Well, you’re included if you’ve posted anything, on social media (or elsewhere) about the sad state of “contemporary Christian music. And praise and worship music. I’ve read lots of comments about how the music offered up in churches, and on the radio, is “repetitive” and “empty” and “repetitive.”

But, in spite of all those commentaries from the bleachers, I still see most church goers still going to those churches. And still enduring those syrupy, up and down, namby-pamby, limp-wristed “love songs” week after week. And then going back home to post a rant about it on Spacebook.

Plus, most of those church goers still buy (on those rare times when they actually buy) music from those celebrity christians. Instead of seeking out singer-songwriters who add meat to the musical message.

And I think it’s because it’s easier to listen to (and buy from) the status quo, that doesn’t judge you and make you feel guilty. And it’s uncomfortable, sometimes, to listen to (and buy from) singer-songwriters who deliver up God’s word in a way similar to the Apostle Paul.

Of course it’s self-serving of me to rant and rave this way.

Because, yes, I consider myself to be a singer-songwriter from the meat market side of Christian music. But I absolutely don’t want you to buy my music or books or anything if you prefer today’s sugar-coated christianity. Because you might hurt your “teeth.”

And I absolutely don’t want you buy anything from me until you see if what I say lines up with the Bible. Because, despite what stupid people, like Andy Stanley, say, it’s still God’s word. So, if what I say or sing doesn’t sync with the Bible, then what I say or sing is wrong. Period.

OK. As you can see, I do have a rather hot-blooded opinion about this. But I wrote a rhyme five years ago that kind of expounds on why. Hope I didn’t write it about YOU.

Invisible Song Machines

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

© 2019

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Posted in Contemporary Christian music, The TRUTH Journal, Tony Funderburk, Truth Bombs, Words and Music | Tagged contemporary Christian music, rant and rave, rhyme and reason podcast
Tony Funderburk Posted on April 16, 2023 by TonyApril 16, 2023
Inside my soul this can make me whole

I’ve known, for a long time, at least somewhere way down inside my soul, that there really aren’t any good guys. But that’s because I discovered the ongoing double standard for what makes a good guy. For example, there’s the white hat standard. ‘Scuse me while I tell you a story about it.

I can remember when you could still tell who the “good guys” were. All you had to do was check what they wore. Because old westerns seemed to portray the good guy cowboys as clean-cut-save-the-damsel-in-distress types. With big white hats. In fact, I remember Dodge dealerships, in Texas, that used that as their marketing slogan. “See the Dodge Boys today. You can tell they’re good guys. They all wear white hats.”

Sure, that’s the southern, good ol’ boy version, or the distant past of America standard for what makes a good guy. Just doin’ good deeds. And wearin’ the right hat and jeans.

But, thankfully, inside my soul, I wanted a better standard.

As a boy, I lived a double life. Part of the year in Texas and part of it in Kansas. And my time in Texas was in a large city while my time in Kansas was in a rural town of about 1500 people. But because America’s states were still more “united” back then, I still experienced a thread of normalcy year ’round.

And I remember, in both households, we watched the same kind of TV shows. Similar music was played. English was the common language. Imagine that. And church played a part in both homes, too. And THAT’S where I discovered the other standard for what a good guy is.

Turns out, as I said earlier, there are NO good guys.

But that’s not because so much of America turned into a cesspool of depravity. It has. But that’s not why there aren’t any good guys. Actually there never were any. Not here. Not in “old country.” And not anywhere on the planet.

Fortunately, there was one good guy. And, thankfully, that one was enough. And also, thankfully, that one good guy was so intensely filled with love, He bailed me out of jail. Not the kind of jail those good guy cowboys used to throw the bad guys into. No, I’m talkin’ about the torment of eternal separation jail.

I didn’t get off “scott free” as they say.

Because I do have to be separated from my body one day. So, death, one way or another, is in my future. But not eternal separation from THE source of life. Because that life is inside my soul. Eternal paradise is in my future. And all that’s required of me is to love. But even that’s a challenge, when I know most people don’t wanna hear me talk about it.

And I won’t go on about it now. I’ll just leave you with lyrics to a song that reflects how I feel about what’s been done for me. And what I’ve been given.

Because I Can Love

What made You think
That I was worth the risk You took?
What made You take the time
To write Your Holy Book?
I don’t believe I’d give myself a second look,
But You did because You love.

You made a world
That was as perfect as could be,
But then I broke it
When You gave it all to me…
By going through the gate You made to set me free.
This You did because You love…me.

Because You love me so,
In spite of all You know.
Because You did the most that You could ever do…
Because I clearly see
Evidence of You in me.
Because I can love, I do love…
You!

You put a life
And a will inside my soul.
You knew true love
Would be to give me full control.
But knowing You is all that ever makes me whole.
I trust You because You love…me.

Yeah, I can live because You live!
I can love because You love!

© 2010

Get this song and 11 more in a unique journal. Yeah, you get a book you can keep your study notes in. AND you get access to all 11 songs. With one purchase. Be one of the good guys and get it today.

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Posted in I Timothy, praise and worship, songbook journal, Tony Funderburk, Words and Music | Tagged eternal souls, free to love, inside my soul, words and music
Tony Funderburk Posted on April 15, 2023 by TonyApril 15, 2023
Catch on before you’re gone

Many years ago I called on singer-songwriters, particularly those who call themselves Christians, to embrace the sanctity of life from the womb to the tomb. And, sadly, that idea didn’t catch on all that well.

Evidently pro life ideas don’t catch on these days.

Now, when I say that, don’t misunderstand. I’m not saying there aren’t lots and lots of pro life people in the world. Because there are. But the problem is, the world is increasingly hostile toward those of us who openly express our pro life and abortion abolition opinions.

So, I’d like to encourage you again. Especially if you’re young. Because you’re possibly gonna be in this world, experiencing its downward spiral, for a lot longer than me. So, it’s crucial to be armed with Truth and Hope.

If you’re reading this, you’re a person.

And you’ve been a person your whole life. And your whole life began at (wait for it) the beginning. And even if you can’t say for sure when that beginning was, you know without a doubt your personhood, or the body you live in, right now, had a beginning.

This should be the simplest and easiest logic in the world to follow.

I would think anyone could wrap their brain around it and agree. Amazingly, though, tens of millions of people can’t bring themselves to say they began at the beginning. So, tens of millions of other people have died in the name of “choice.” They were denied the same basic freedoms everyone of us hopes to enjoy.

It’s a cryin’ shame.

Former President, Ronald Reagan, is quoted as saying something like: “I notice everybody that is for abortion has already been born.” Unfortunately President Reagan made some poor decisions when it came to abortion, but I think he regretted them. I’m sure he does now. But the main point is…yeah, you’ve already been born. Why not let others enjoy that right to life?

Those who support abortion are ridiculously selfish. A full-grown person, outside the womb is not more important or special than those people who are being killed every day, inside their mother‘s womb.

Here’s a “crazy” idea. Let’s make “choice” a beautiful word again. Choice for every person to enjoy the benefits of personhood. And to live and at least have a chance at this life. Sure, it can be tough, but it can be immensely and eternally rewarding.

Choose life. And #AbolishAbortion Now that’s what I call a PRO CHOICE.

Help it catch on. Start now.
Before you’re gone. Here’s how.
Choose life and use YOUR voice.
Truth will not lose. Rejoice!

this planet and can do nothing about it.

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Posted in Abolish abortion, Pro Life, Rhymes, Tony Funderburk | Tagged abolish abortion, abortion abolition, pro life
Tony Funderburk Posted on April 13, 2023 by TonyApril 13, 2023
Kinetic art, a perpetual start

Poetry in motion. “She blinded me with science.” And I’m about to dazzle you with distraction. Yeah, I figure I can mix the magic, media, and metaphors and still be back at the kitchen table in time for breakfast. Kids, don’t try this at home. Now, let’s dive into the wonderful world of kinetic art.

First, what’s so great about kinetic art?

Well, here’s a description I found to help understand what it is: “Broadly, any piece of art that revolves around a fascination with movement can be considered Kinetic art. Kinetic artists offer us an artistic expression of the growing modern age with its technological intersections and philosophies. Kinetic artists explored art that could extend into both space and time and artworks that morphed with viewer interaction. Mechanized sculptures that change their appearance over a cycle of time seem to capture the fast-paced evolution of the modern age.”

Sounds simple enough. Right? (I’m seriously tongue-in-cheek right now)

Yeah, the so-called “art world aficionados” love to pontificate. But the gist of what that paragraph said is this. People love to watch things move. So, when artists incorporate motion into their works, people tend to love the added dimension. Seems reasonable to me.

I watched a guy give a Pop Tech Talk about his creations. And even though he was from California and spoke like a guy who had a close relationship with cannabis, his art was mesmerizing.

But that’s how design and motion are. Mesmerizing.

And when you capture motion with raw materials, it can be magical.

The Pop Tech Talk guy I watched used wood and string. And lights. And metal tubing. He said he never attended art school. But he did go to a couple of painting schools in Italy. He mentioned some of his memorable experiences there and at another art class in Russia. And when he got to the Russian part, he shared how the world is made up of two perspectives.

First, there’s the beauty side. Dawns and dusks. Sparkling lights. Rainbows and butterflies. But then, he said, there’s this “sort of structured” side. And he said he wasn’t sure if the structure is about waves and sines. But he was certain of the structure. Just not what to do with it other than “try to reach out and touch it. Or let it touch you.”

Of course, there’s another thing you can do with it.

Appreciate the complexity of design. And then appreciate how important it is for complex design to have a designer. And because that’s true for wood and string and lights and metal tubing, it’s even way more important for you and me. Because you and I are kinetic, eternal beings. We’ll exist forever.

I’ve been fascinated by kinetic and potential energy since I first learned about them in my high school science class. And I’ve understood, for most of my life, that those forces didn’t come from nowhere and nothing. So, naturally (and maybe even a little bit supernaturally) I decided to write and sing about ’em.

Kinetic Love

I got dreams like the sand on the shore.
And I got plans formulating inside.
I got hopes just waiting for an open door.
And I got a system true and tried.

I got a force deeper than a heartbeat.
And I got a strength more potent than a storm.
I got a love that’s music for my dancing feet.
And I got a place that’s always warm

I got kinetic love…I got potential love.
And there’s a kingdom come waiting down the line.
I got a lavish love…and I got a simple love.
And I gotta share this love ‘cause it ain’t just mine.

I got songs married to my mind.
And I got art no one else can see.
I got roads just waiting to be driven down.
I got a Truth that sets me free.

I got a gold you can’t measure on earth.
And I got jewels in the sparkling dew.
I got a wealth that doesn’t have a mortal worth.
And The Living God who gets me through.

© 1990 Tony Funderburk

Stay tuned,

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Posted in creation science, Tony Funderburk, Words and Music | Tagged kinetic art, kinetic energy, original lyrics
Tony Funderburk Posted on April 12, 2023 by TonyMay 6, 2023
Life is short. Now, what's your retort?

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If you’re old enough to remember back to the 60’s, or maybe even 50’s, you know full well that life is short. Right? I mean, how could it already have been this many years since then? If your memory goes back that far, you probably remember life being a lot simpler. And nicer. And sensibler (I know that’s not a word, but I wanted to make it fit in. So there.)

But if you’ve grown up in more recent decades, you probably have a whole ‘nother perspective. And you might even think older people don’t recall things so well because they’re…well…old.

Yeah, I remember thinking similar thoughts about my Grandmother. Because she’d talk about how one day I’d be grown and people I had loved wouldn’t be around anymore. And she’d say something like, “Love them while you can. Because one day you’ll wish you could see them, but they’ll be gone for good.”

Yes, life is short.

Because her words came to pass a long time ago. And with each passing year or decade more of those people are gone.

OK, that’s nostalgic and all. But it only skims the surface on why each day is a precious gift. And that’s what makes the incredibly screwed up condition of our world so important.

I remember a phone conversation with my Mom (who has since become one of those people who’s gone for good) about how messed up America is. And she said, “I’m scared for my grandkids and great-grandkids. I hate to think about what they’re gonna face in this world as they turn into adults.”

I saw several videos, this morning as I sipped my coffee, that showed real life violence in what used to be ordinary daily experiences. And I mean violence where people hit each other in the face. Repeatedly. And even a video where one guy calmly pulled out a pistol from his sweatshirt and shot another guy in the head. Point blank. And then walked past the guy he shot and calmly shot him again. Then, robbed him.

So, Mom was right. Her grandkids and great-grandkids are growing up in a horrible time. Innocence is lost. Common sense is lost. And “Love Your Neighbor” is definitely lost.

So, all hope is lost. Right?

Yes. That IS right. If your definition of hope is based on a feeling. And if you’re just hoping the bad stuff will go away. But real hope is NOT lost. And I mean the kind of hope that propels you forward. Gives you strength. Energizes your love. Fuels your dreams. That hope is still here. Available 24/7/365.

But it WILL disappear when the whole world turns its back on God.

Thankfully, that hasn’t happened yet. But it sure seems imminent now.

And the clock is ticking. Time is running out. You can laugh and say, “Not me. I’m still young.” But in a few short moments (and it will seem like that), you’ll face your own mortality. And don’t be surprised when you hear yourself say, “Life is short.” Especially if you’re a person who ponders truth and its implications.

It’s crucial to your long-term health to choose hope. And choose life. The Life your Creator provides.

If you’ve already done that, share that with those you love before they’re gone for good. Because that time is coming at us all, like a rocket ship in zero gravity.

I got dreams like the sand on the shore.
And I got plans formulating inside.
I got hopes just waiting for an open door.
And I got a system true and tried.  (from my song “Kinetic Love”)

Stay tuned,

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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 in current events, Galatians, life is beautiful, The TRUTH Journal, Tony Funderburk | Tagged life is beautiful, life is short, rhyme and reason podcast
Tony Funderburk Posted on April 11, 2023 by TonyApril 11, 2023
Tuesday morning sky and a warmongering guy

Morning, afternoon, and evening salutations. And hope you have/had a wonderful Germanic god of the sky and war day. Yep, here we are on Tiu’s day again (the aforementioned god of the sky and war dude). It’s around 4 o’clock, Tuesday morning, as I type these words. And I’ve been up since about 2. Bleary-eyed, but thankful.

And, on this early Tuesday morning, I ran across Tiu.

No because I tried tiu…uh…to. And not because I had to. But simply because I was curious how this day of the week originated. Etymology can be very enlightening. Even when it leads to ancient mythological gods.

Yeah, those ancient people could sure come up with some doozies. They were so dense. And so superstitious. Not like us more evolved, sophisticated intellectuals these days. Because we have the advantages of technology to help us see life more clearly. More real. Uh-huh. We can subsidize our brains with artificial intelligence.

And it don’t get realer than that. No sir.

So, on this Tuesday morning (or whatever day and time it is where you are), I hope you rise and shine. With the added knowledge (you’re welcome) of the superstitious origin of Tuesday. All this talk about the day reminded me of a complex, artificial intelligence subsidized rhyme I wrote about it years ago. Get Ready for some…

Tuesday Weather

We’re gonna have Tuesday weather
Whether you like it or not.
Because today is Tuesday,
And we’ve got the weather we’ve got.

We’re gonna have Tuesday weather
From the morning till midnight
Because Tuesday is all day…
Between Monday and Wednesday, right?

We’re gonna have Tuesday weather
So go out and soak some in,
Maybe I’ll see you out there.
I’ll be the one with the big grin.

Stay tuned,

Tony Funderburk signature logo

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 in current events, Rhymes, Tony Funderburk | Tagged summer weather, tuesday morning, words mean things

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