Tony Funderburk Posted on by

I watched a video, yesterday, of a couple who were enjoying a walk through Clifton, Colorado. It’s more or less an extension of Grand Junction. And it sits between that city and Palisade, Colorado. (side note: if you’ve never had Palisade peaches, your life is not complete) The couple videoed the view as they talked about what they were enjoying along the way. They mentioned the Colorado River, which runs by those towns.

And I remembered a view of the Colorado River on Google maps.

But it’s not just a snapshot of the river. The view I’m talking about is a video of the “street view.” And I guess, when you think about it, rivers are kinda like streets. One-way streets, mostly, but they certainly get their share of traffic. Especially when they offer the exhilaration of challenging rapids.

Anyway…

The Google maps “street view” gives you the opportunity to challenge those rapids without ever getting your feet wet. I haven’t checked, lately, to see if Google still offers that view. But about eight years ago I shared the video that someone posted on YouTube. And I’ll share it with you, again, at the link below. But first, this river rhyme…

Down The River

Down the river there’s a ripple and a wake
That doesn’t seem to end like it does in a lake.
It doesn’t need a storm or a deep earthquake
To shimmer and shudder and shiver and shake.

Down the river there’s a mile-high sky
That changes real fast as the rocks roll by.
It doesn’t share a smile or a mournful sigh.
It darkens and lightens and closes one eye.

Down the river there’s a story to tell
That a few old-timers and their dogs know well.
A tale of woe when the river did swell…
And sent all the rafters to Heaven or Hell.

Down the river, where the rapids break free,
Is a place you’ll be glad that you got to see.
It’s where you’ll decide if you ever will be
Back down the river to the landing tree.

© 2014 Tony Funderburk

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According to one source I just read, it’s officially 50 years ago, today, since Elton John released Rocket Man. And I remember playing the album, Honky Chateau, over and over on one of my drives from Kansas to Texas. That could very well have had something to do with why so many people thought I sounded so much like Elton.

Of course, that’s where our similarities end. Because he and I couldn’t be more different if we tried.

And it’s so hard to believe it’s already 50 years ago.

Back then I’m sure I thought it would “be a long, long time” before I could say something like that. Because, back then, it would have seemed like I’d never “touch down” on this date in the future so quickly. And, at that time, I wouldn’t have dreamed I’d sing that song so many times for so many people.

But has Elton ever returned the favor? Even once? Of course not. What a ripoff.

Just kidding. I’m just razzing the rocket man a little. Because I’m sure he wouldn’t be caught within a radio wave’s distance of one of my songs. Especially the ones where I sing about God and Jesus and Truth.

So, I’ll cut Elton some slack. I know he needs the money. And playing my music wouldn’t make much of that. But you know who won’t cut Elton some slack? God. Well, at least not if Elton doesn’t ask for that slack before it’s too late.

Like I’ve mentioned several times, that doesn’t look likely.

But while he’s still here, no one has packed his bags, pre-flight. And zero hour isn’t necessarily 9 a.m. So, he could still avoid “burnin’ out a fuse” somewhere alone. But it’ll take humility. What do you think? Does he have that?

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When the going gets tough…you know the rest. Right? Yeah, the tough are nowhere to be found.

Just kidding (mostly).

When the going gets tough, the tough get going.

Once upon a time there was this world. And it was good. And beautiful. Pure. But fast forward about 6,000 years…and we have THIS world. And it’s not so good. It’s messed up. And purity is long gone.

All around us are stories of tragedy, catastrophe, and calamity. Thieves, liars, and murderers.

But what are you gonna do? There’s really not much you CAN do. Right?

Wrong!

If you’re a Christian, you certainly don’t need to throw your hands up in the air and give in. And you certainly shouldn’t leave the “fixing” to politicians who’d rather line their pockets from the wealth they redistribute. Speaking of stealing, I wrote a song called “Beat The World.” Hard to believe it was over 25 years ago. Here are some lyrics…

Every time you turn your back
There’s somebody there to pick your pockets.
And so you see there’s more to life,
More than love and rockets.
Deal with reality the best that you can.
Try to remember there’s a higher plan.
That’s the only way to beat the world at its own game.

That “higher plan” is Jesus’ eventual return to Earth to reclaim His kingdom. But until He does that, you and I should stand firmly on His word. And be courageous parts of His body in an increasingly rebellious world. Because this world is not the source of life. So, it can’t actually take yours. Or mine. It can only reposition you and me at best.

So, what do say we choose life, stand up, and fight back?

People who’ve signed up to get emails from me already know about the ways you can get the song that goes with those lyrics. So, take a second and join the growing body of believers who’ve already signed up for the TRUTH Journal. When you do, I’ll send you some music and a book for kids right away. Then, I’ll send you daily flashes of light from the faith, hope, and the power of God’s love.

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Tony Funderburk Posted on by

1975 was a very good year for The Eagles. Matter of fact, on this date, March 1, of that year, their song “Best of My Love became the first of five hit songs off their “On The Border” album. And I remember singing along with ’em. It wasn’t my favorite Eagles album, by far, but it was pretty good.

I guess I’d say “On The Border” was borderline.

But what’s not “pretty good” or borderline is the history of their most prolific member.

Don Henley, whose voice is heard on most of their biggest hits, is a guy whose soul might be jeopardy. Because, from what I’ve been able to discern, he’s spent most of his almost 75 years on the border of (and in the heart of) rebellion against God. Not a good decision.

And, if what I read is true, he’s made a lot of bad decisions. For example, his Wikipedia page says he’s a “lifelong supporter of the democratic party (and no, I won’t capitalize it). Big mistake (by the way, that’s not an endorsement of the republican party…and no, I won’t capitalize it). Worse than supporting the dems, Henley “endorsed Joe Biden in the 2020 presidential election.”

Are you kidding me?! For an intelligent man, Don is mighty stupid. And it brings me no pleasure to say that. Because  I’ve enjoyed his music for years. Even included some of them in my regular repertoire.

And Mr. Henley isn’t just a vocal supporter. According to the Washington Post (a so-called newspaper), he’s “donated over $680,000 to political candidates since 1978.” So, I give him credit for putting his money where his mouth is, at least.

But, on the other hand, he also pleaded no contest to a charge of delinquency of a minor. This was after calling 911 to report an incident at his house. And when the cops showed up, a naked teenage girl, on cocaine, ran out.

Not good. To say the least.

According to one article I read, Don wrote the lyrics to “Best of My Love” in “a booth in Dan Tana’s Restaurant” close to the Troubadour in West Hollywood. And the title makes it sound like a nice love song.

But the lyrics? Not so much.

Beautiful faces, loud empty places
Look at the way that we live.
Wastin’ our time on cheap talk and wine
Left us so little to give.

(OK, that’s just one verse. It gets better…right?)

But every morning’ I wake up and worry
What’s gonna happen today?
You see it your way and I see it mine,
But we both see it slippin’ away.

(Yeah, it’s not a strong relationship song.)

So, when he sings “You get the best of my love,” I have to wonder what his best would be. Especially when Mr. Henley doesn’t appear to even know what true love is.

And it makes me sad for him. Because he was given the gift of music from the absolute source of love. And his gift provided a lifestyle most musicians only dream of. But I don’t believe Don cares about the eternal torment he faces. I hope he does before it’s too late and he finds himself on the border of hell.

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A river runs through it. Connect the dots. The ties that bind. And it’s a small world. However you wanna say it, there are so many interweaving threads in human life. I’d like to share a bluer than blue story with you to show you what I mean. And maybe it won’t mean a thing to you. But, to me, it clearly illustrates what Paul told the Galatians.

First point. “Bluer Than Blue” was a hit song, in 1978, sung by Michael Johnson.

If you’ve never heard it, do yourself and favor and look it up. Very nice. Michael Johnson had, what one music critic described as, a “mellifluous voice.”

Second point. I met Michael Johnson in Aberdeen, South Dakota, back in 1990 or 91. He was sitting at the bar of a local establishment where I played music for a couple of weeks. This was back in my full-time road musician days.

When I took a break, Michael came over to me, introduced himself, and asked if we could talk for a bit. Of course, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to have a conversation with a fellow singer. Especially since he’d had some hits on the radio. And I’m still thankful I didn’t miss that opportunity.

Mr. Johnson asked me about one of the songs I’d played in that previous set. He said he’d never heard it and wondered if it might be mine. And I told him that it was. He said he enjoyed the way I used minor chords and keys to sing a positive, uplifting song.

Then, he asked if I had considered shopping my originals to music publishers. And I told him I’d sent some off to publishers and studios a few times and that the response was mostly lukewarm.

He chuckled and talked about how that’s “typical.”

And then he said, “You need to go to Nashville.” He said he thought it might go much better if I shopped my songs to publishers face to face. Well, of course, that was an ego boost, coming from a guy who had hits on the radio.

During the conversation, he mentioned why he happened to be in Aberdeen, South Dakota. He was actually the opening act for, and on tour with, Eddie Rabbitt and his band. And they were just there for the night. And he said he was glad he got to hear me and my song.

I never saw Michael Johnson again.

And here’s the reason this story popped up in my head, today. I noticed Eddie Rabbitt’s song, “I Love A Rainy Night” was number 1 on the pop chart on this day (February 28) back in 1981.

And that made me think of Michael. So, I did a search and discovered he died in 2017. I had no idea.

I hope he was a Christian. Because he seemed like a mighty nice guy. And I’d enjoy the opportunity to sing with him one day in Heaven. Hopefully he’d feel the same.

Anyway…

There you go. Maybe this story is only interesting to me. But I thought you might enjoy a journey down one of those interweaving threads I mentioned earlier. And maybe it’ll help you remember to love your neighbor as yourself. Because this life passes quickly. And I’d hate to think you end up bluer than blue.

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I’m not a fan of Ukraine. Or any other country in the world, at this time, for that matter. But I read a short article about how Ukrainian music is being used to pump up the people. And I listened to a couple of clips.

The Ukrainian music I heard certainly sounded strong.

I don’t know what the words said. But the harmonies were tight. And the voices sounded strong and determined. Also, the crowds who listened (and joined in…somewhat) seemed to be glad the music was booming out over loudspeakers across the squares.

The article included a quick interview with someone identified as “Ukrainian musician, Sofia Yatsyuk, 26.”  And she shared her concern for her family and friends in Ukraine.

“My whole family are musicians,” she said. “And they’re all obviously panicking and afraid. Until today, this still all seemed somewhat hypothetical. I think people were just going about their normal lives and still hoping that war could be prevented. But obviously, today, it’s all changed.”

Yeah, the citizens of Ukraine definitely can’t sing their way out of the war that’s been thrust upon them.

And to say it’s been thrust upon them is more or less a guess.

Because it’s difficult to impossible to know who’s telling the truth and who’s lying in any of the governments around the world.

But this much isn’t a guess. Bombing people (and countries) just for disagreeing with you is almost always a disastrous idea. And those actions ALWAYS have eternal consequences. But for people who hate God, most of the people in the world, it’s just another thing to do. Another thing to try.

I read where well-known Ukrainian baritone, Yuriy Yurchuk, sang a protest song outside the residence of Britain’s prime minister. And in another part of that article it said, “Pop musicians from both Ukraine and Russia are also publicly condemning President Putin’s invasion of Ukraine across their personal social media channels.”

Now, I hope Ukrainian music can make a true and lasting difference for the people of that country. But my recommendation, for them, is that they make sure they’re right with God. Because only He has all the right notes.

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You know what I’d like to see? Everybody has to work for free and everything is free. Wouldn’t that solve a lot of problems? Or maybe all of them?

Or should it be just the goofy singer songwriters and other artists who should work for free? Call me crazy (yeah, crazy like a porcupine), but that doesn’t seem balanced, fair, equitable, or even sustainable to singer songwriters and other artists.

When I started singing, as a little boy, I dreamed that one day I’d be able to pursue a career in music and never need money. Because I knew enough about freedom to know it means everything is free.

And what could be better than doing what you love as you work for free?

So, as I practiced and rehearsed, I’d repeat, over and over to myself: “free free free.” Then, a few more la la la’s and then repeat “free free free.” It didn’t matter that I was six. I knew if I could envision it, I could make it happen. Because I loved my freedom. So, I knew I’d love the whole free concept.

I spent tens of thousands of hours of my life singing and practicing and learning music theory, scales, sight-reading. Then, I spent lots of my time on drums, harmonicas, keyboards, percussion, and recorders.

Why?

Because it was all free. Didn’t cost me anything.

And if you believe this story so far, you don’t know me at all.

Because you know I realize there’s nothing more valuable than life and time. So, of course, I paid an enormous “fee” to learn how to sing and play instruments. But certainly not because I figured one day I could play for free.

No, I spent that gigantic amount of my time because of my gigantic love for music.

Music has been a constant companion and friend to me for as long as I can remember. And during my years as a full-time musician I had a few brushes with fame and fortune. But I didn’t take that path. And, as it turns out, I’m pretty glad I didn’t.

But fast forward to now. And many people say all music (and almost everything else, too, for that matter) should be free. That’s frustrating. To say the least. But that hasn’t made me turn my back on singing and songwriting. And if you explore my website, you’ll discover plenty of free music available.

But I wonder if you’ve noticed something I have.

Even in this day and age it still takes money to buy…

  • groceries, and
  • gas, and
  • cars, and
  • clothes, and
  • housing, and…well…just about everything.

 

So, what’s up with that?

My musical journey proves I don’t live for the love of money (which is the root of all evil). But I do live…in a society/culture where money is necessary to live.

So…call me crazy again (actually stop doing that), but I still work to create and provide musical and reading enjoyment to as many as will listen and read. And I still sell (*gasp*) my products. That way I can afford to keep up on the gear and resources to create, produce, and provide more.

What do you think? Should I give it all away?
Should I listen to the masses and do what they say?
Or is there maybe, just maybe, another better way
To make a living from music and books today?

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Let’s say, for the sake of argument (<< figure of speech), that you feel like the whole world is closing in on you. And let’s say that you listen to and watch “news,” but the more you see and hear, the more confusing it is. And, finally, let’s say it all makes you feel generally cast down in this world.

Here’s how a couple of dictionaries describe “cast down.”

One simply says it means “depressed.” Another says 1. to throw something to the ground…and 2. to lower something. OK, those all make sense, depending on what you’re talking about. And when you feel confused and like the whole world is closing in on you, it can probably feel like you’re cast down to the ground. Right?

But here’s the thing…

Those feelings can either crush you or help you to look for powerful help. The kind of help that can remove despair and hopelessness. And the kind of help with the promise of perfection. That sure beats getting crushed.

In 2 Corinthians 4:7-15 the apostle Paul talks about how “we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us”. The earthen vessels he’s talking about are our bodies. But what’s the treasure? Well, he mentioned it a little earlier in his letter.

“For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.”

Yeah, that’s right.

The knowledge of the glory of God is a huge treasure. Because it means you and I can live forever, if we choose.

And Paul points out how we’re “hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed, we are perplexed, but not in despair…persecuted, but not forsaken, struck down (aka cast down), but not destroyed”. That describes what mentioned in the “for the sake of argument” section, before.

Did you get that last part? It means just because you’re down doesn’t mean you’re out. Because Jesus provided Grace. So, you’re in control of your own life. And you have freedom to choose life or death.

When you put your faith in the love and life of Jesus, your body might still be pounded down to the ground. But your actual life will not be destroyed.

Because you will live forever.

But it’s crucial to realize that you might not have years left to find out if the Christian claims of eternal life are true. And you might not have months left to determine whether or not the Christian God is real. You might not have days left to decide to trust in the Creator of the universe. And you might not even have hours left to ponder whether true love exists and where it came from.

But while there is still breath in you, you DO have time to choose where you’ll be forever.

You can’t run away from real truth.
And every word of truth is a knife.
A captivating voice might pigeonhole your choice.
Cut free…and choose life.

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Some people think there are many mysteries of life. Those people never seem to find satisfactory answers to their burning questions. I have. And it brings me everlasting comfort.

Maybe you think talk about everlasting comfort is just wishful thinking.

But maybe it isn’t.

And when I say “maybe it isn’t,” I mean, it isn’t.

I hope you’re not one of those who says true science never really finds the answers. Because seeking and processing new information can lead to answers. Not just endless questions.

But you won’t be able to make sense of anything, if you can’t know that you can know.

In fact, if you can’t truly know anything, you might even begin to question your own existence. And that’s a self-defeating whirlpool of thought. And so pointless. (real people actually do that, by the way)

If you can read this, you can think new thoughts. And if you can form pictures in your mind based on words, you can communicate. And even if you can only communicate questions, you exist. I promise.

More importantly, you’re not here accidentally. You’re a created being. Created by the living, loving God who created everything. He is the answer to all the mysteries of life. And He loves you if you’ll let Him. I recommend it. Because when you do, you’ll experience that everlasting comfort I mentioned earlier. Because He is the…

Everlasting Everywhere

I want the Everlasting Work Of Art;
Not just on canvas, but engraved in the heart
I need the Everlasting Scale Of Worth.
That’s the only Way to perfect peace on earth

Everlasting and everywhere…
He’s Everlasting and everywhere

I look for Everlasting holy clues
To steel myself through all this negative news
I dream the Everlasting wide-eyed stuff,
But I’m still aware that dreaming’s never enough

Chorus

You seek the answers to the mysteries of life
But how much truth can you handle
And as for me, well, there is only One Fire
That lights the flame on my candle

Chorus

I look to the Everlasting Guiding Star
To make my path straight as I travel so far
I sing the Everlasting song of man;
Teach us to understand our place in the plan

Chorus…inst…chorus…bridge…chorus…

modulate up and repeat

2 verses and choruses to end

© 1992 Tony Funderburk

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OK, here’s my one step plan to a longer, richer life. Ready? Got a pen and paper or computer handy? Here goes. Love God and live longer.

Whew! Are you tuckered out? Yeah, I know…it’s a pretty grueling regimen. But you know what they say…no pain, no gain. So, if you truly wanna live a longer life, you’re gonna need to open your heart and let your love flow to God. That might be more painful for some than others.

But here’s the payoff, when you follow this one step plan…

…eternal life.

And here’s a key point I wanna make.

As I always say, you get to choose.

Exercising your body keeps you healthier, but you have to decide to do it. You choose. And, in fact, until you choose, you won’t see any positive results. It’s completely up to you. And eternal life with God in His Heavenly paradise is completely up to you, too.

But maybe you don’t think the God I’m talking about even exists. Or maybe you think He doesn’t love you. And maybe you think you couldn’t love a god who would allow you to have the unfulfilled life you’re living. Or maybe you have some other stubborn reason for choosing yourself over God.

I recommend you get over yourself and give up those reasons.

Give up the need to BE a god. And give up the desire to be served and start looking for ways to serve.

Maybe you could start by simply serving your family or friends. You might be surprised at how much better you’ll feel when you take the focus off you. And I wouldn’t be at all surprised to hear that you decided to take your love to the next level. In fact, I’ll rejoice with the angels when I hear you decided to follow this one step plan and live forever.

When you do, let me know. I mean it.

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World peace doesn’t happen because of touchy feely laws.

History proves this over and over again. It doesn’t happen by taking away a person’s right to self protection. It doesn’t happen because somebody imprisons all those who disagree. And it sure doesn’t happen because some so-called “body of power” legislates it.

World peace can only happen one of two ways.

Everyone (yes, that’s everyone with a capital E) has to give up selfishness. And since that doesn’t seem to have a snowball’s chance in Hades of happening, then world peace is just a…

Cliché

We want the answers to all of our questions.
And we want the world in the palm of our hand
We want to rise up; rise up and conquer
Let all the world know just where we stand

We want to live in a fat-free environment, and
We want to make sure the ozone is intact,
And so we watch all those service commercials, and
It’s just so easy to sit back and react.

Is it just melodrama…for me to feel this way?
I wonder…is it just me,
Or does it all sound so cliché?
Does it sound that way…so cliché?

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

We train ourselves and prepare for the future, but
Each day the future takes on a new look.
We might do better to look inside our own hearts, and
We might discover it’s not in some law book!

Is it just melodrama for me to feel this way?
I wonder…is it just me, or does it all sound so cliché?

Does it sound that way…so cliché?

© 1996 Tony Funderburk

Did you think I forgot about the second way peace can come to the whole world?

Nope. I didn’t.

And the second way is the most likely way. Because that way is THE Way. The Prince of Peace. The one who will rule this world with absolutely NO touchy feely laws. And it’s so cliché to say you don’t believe in Him.

Stay tuned…

Tony

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In case you don’t know, or don’t remember, Frank Sinatra sang a song called “My Way.”

That song starts with this line: “And now, the end is near and so I face the final curtain.”

I’ll bet, when Frank sang those lyrics, he wasn’t actually seriously considering the end of his own life. Because, from what I’ve been able to see in his life, he didn’t talk much about life after death and consequences for choices.

The first verse of the song ends with “I did it my way.”

And then the second verse starts out with “Regrets, I’ve had a few. But then again, too few to mention.”

The lyricist, Paul Anka (and Mr. Sinatra, by musical proxy) takes full credit for his life. No mention of any source of strength outside himself. That selfishness shines through in the lines that say, “To think I did all that, and may I say, not in a shy way. Oh no, oh no, not me. I did it my way.”

And the bridge of the song is maybe the most selfish part. In fact, it’s totally egocentric when it says,

“For what is a man? What has he got? If not himself, then he has naught.
To say the things he truly feels, and not the words of one who kneels.”

If what you’ve got is YOU, then you have naught. Because the you who lives here and now is not gonna be that same you forever. There will come a time when you you “face the final curtain.” And whether you end up in eternal torment or eternal paradise depends on whether you chose your way or The Way.

That hit song, by Frank Sinatra, ends with…

“The record shows I took the blows and did it my way.
Yes, it was my way.”

If that’s truly what the record showed for Frank, then he might have to endure the torment of those lyrics echoing in his mind for all eternity. If he never humble himself and kneeled down and asked for God’s love and forgiveness, he discovered how horrendously wrong his way was. And he’s paying, dearly, for his selfishness right now.

I hope, for Mr. Sinatra’s sake, that’s not the case. But as far as I can see, the record shows he took the blows and did it his way instead of trusting in the The Way.

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On February 17, 2000 there was an auction for John Lennon’s Steinway piano. But it wasn’t just a Steinway. It was also the one he used to compose his song, “Imagine.” That vacuous, ridiculous, and delusional dive into nothingness.

I think even the Steinway piano had more intelligence.

“Gee whiz, Tony. Why don’t you say what you really think?”

OK. John Lennon was a stupid, selfish narcissist whose so-called imagination was overly influenced by drugs and ego. Is that plain enough?

And his song, “Imagine,” reveals Mr. Lennon’s hypocrisy and self-centric worldview. He said to imagine no Heaven or hell. And he said “it’s easy if you try.”  Then he said to imagine there’s only sky above us. But to believe there’s nothing more than that leads to hopelessness.

In the second verse John said to imagine no countries. And he said to imagine “nothing to kill or die for.” Can you imagine not defending your family? Even to the point of killing someone who’d harm your loved ones? Or taking a bullet for them if it came to that? Can you imagine that? Yeah, me neither.

How about no religion? Do you think that’s the answer to “all the people living life in peace?” Hardly. If there’s no God, there can be no peace. And certainly no hope. Billions of people will NEVER all reach some sort of utopian harmony on their own. Without an absolute standard, there’s only chaos, confusion, and opinions.

And that nullifies Mr. Lennon’s claim, that if we all become dreamers like him, “the world will be as one.”

Then, the lyrics to “Imagine” really get dim-witted. John said to “imagine no possessions.” And he wondered if you even can. Keep in mind, he wrote this song on HIS Steinway piano. And he recorded much of it in HIS home studio. In his Tittenhurst Park estate in Ascot, Berkshire, England which he bought for £145,000. That equals over £1 million in today’s money.

But who’s counting?

If John Lennon really believed what he wrote, then why didn’t he spread his wealth around to as many people as possible? After all, if truly believed there’s a brotherhood of man, why wouldn’t he do that? Why wouldn’t he lead by example? And stop acquiring stuff so that the brotherhood of man shared “all the world?”

Because he was vacuous, ridiculous, hypocrite.

But it’s still a terrible loss that he was murdered. Not a loss for the world. But a loss of yet another soul who will have to pay his own sin debt. And I can’t even imagine how horrible that must be for him now.

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Pssst…hey you. Yeah, you. C’mere. I got some valuable information…a code…and I need someone I can trust with it just in case I’m not around to get it into the right hands. Yeah, some earth-shattering things might happen real soon. And just in case they do, maybe you can use this code to help yourself and some others get out of a jam.

Even if it doesn’t seem like it, now, it WILL be valuable information.

Maybe you’ve heard the expression, “don’t take any wooden nickels”. That just means be careful in your endeavors, rendezvous, and dealings. Because there’s always somebody out there ready to sell you a load of fertilizer. And if what I’m about to tell you isn’t true, then it falls under that same fertilizer category. And you can feel free to disregard and go about your merry way.

However; the code I’m talking about is true and profitable.

And when I say profitable, I don’t mean wooden nickels, solid silver nickels, or even gold doubloons. I mean the kind of profitable where you’ll be “rich” forever.

I’m absolutely not kidding.

The fountain of youth IS a real thing. It doesn’t exist here in this space/time continuum. But it does exist. And the code I have for you can show you where to go to drink from that fountain.

Here’s an important detail, though.

And this is crucial to understand. You’ll have to be very careful with this code. You won’t be able to share it with just anyone. But I hope you’ll share it with as many as you can.

You should know this ahead of time. If this valuable information falls into the wrong hands, it could be curtains for you. But there will be quite a few people who will want to know what I’m gonna share. It’ll be your duty to give it to them.

Are you up for it? Think, carefully, before you answer…

OK…here’s the secret link.

Click or tap on it when you’re alone. Read the information you find there. You’ll find the code completely revealed with no crazy questions to answer, no forms to fill out, no places where you’ll be required to sign up for anything.

Let me know if you have any questions. Hopefully I’ll still be around to help you out.

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Wow. I found this description of a waning crescent moon on a university website.

“John the Baptist is sometimes connected with the waning moon (Baptisry of Östr Hoby, Sweden, 12c) to explicate his role as the last prophet of the waning Old Testament which is regarded, simultaneously, as a promise of the New Testament. The moon contrasts here the sun as symbol of fulfillment, in other words, the New Testament, more specifically Jesus Christ himself, the sol invictus. The same contrast is used to signify ecclesia and synagoga. The latter is identified with the symbol of the waning moon.”

That oughta make you look at a waning crescent moon a little differently.

But the most interesting part of that description is, as I said, that I found it on a university website. And, as far as I can tell, it’s not a Christian university. So, pretty incredible.

Anyway…

People write about the crescent moon. And they use it as a logo. It has a lot of symbolic meaning for a lot of different people. But it’s technically just the sliver of light you can see on the moon as it goes through a certain monthly phase. Waxing and waning. And half and whole. You get the idea.

But poets, philosophers, and those wacky songwriters, down through the centuries don’t see it from such a technical perspective. No, they’re always trying to transform that sliver of light into something magical. Something mystical. Something almost alive and with its own personality.

And I’ve been guilty of it, too.

About 40 years ago I wrote a little song called “Crescent Moon”, and it was about that same sliver of light. Only that time I was describing a common feeling I shared with someone else, and the moon was a good way to tie it together. After all…no matter where you are in the world, you see the same moon I see. Right?

Well, here are the lyrics about that waning

Crescent Moon

I know how well you love the crescent moon.
I remember things like that,
Yes, I do remember things that make you happy.
For if anyone can say the magic words
To draw a smile on your face…
I hope that you say I can.
I know how much you love to swim in the ocean.
And I can almost see the surf splashing on your back
Making you look so dizzy.
We think so much alike, we surely must be one…
Inseparable as the sun and the dawn.
I know how well you love to plant roses
And watch them grow, and see them bloom,
And see them glow under the crescent moon.

© 1974 Tony Funderburk  (July 1)

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I love a samba beat with soft nylon-stringed guitar and congas and smooth bass lines. And I deeply appreciate when a singer/songwriter focuses more intently on vocal performance and recording than just about anything else. So, I certainly tuned into a song that came out, back in 1975, that met all that criteria. From a young woman who sang about getting no valentines when she was a teenager.

Sounds sad, right? No valentines.

But that’s part of what she lamented as she sang about being seventeen. In these lyrics…

“The valentines I never knew
The Friday night charades of youth
Were spent on one more beautiful
At seventeen I learned the truth.”

Yeah, there’s nothing like the anguish of a seventeen year old girl. Absolutely NO pain in the world can compare. But a couple years after that song came out (1977) Janis Ian got 461 Valentine’s day cards from fans. So, happiness recaptured, time lost became time gained, and redemption rolled in at last.

Well, not so quick.

As it turns out, Janis claims to have a wife. Yes, Janis is a she. So, it’s not reality to say she has a wife. But that’s what she claims. So, who am I to judge. Well, I’m me. So I judge. But don’t judge me for judging. OK?

Anyway…

That’s one strike against her. But she also decided to keep swingin’ and wrote a song, for her last album, about people who are confused. People who don’t know if they’re a boy or a girl. I read this blurb online…

“The heartfelt new song “Perfect Little Girl” was written for a friend of Ian’s who is a transgender man, but the song could speak to anyone who feels boxed-in by restrictive gender norms.”

And when I say “last album,” I mean the last one she’ll record. Because that’s what she’s saying about it. And, at almost 71, that’s a pretty big deal. I don’t know if she’s seen the symmetry in that number.

But I digress.

The main thing I want to point out is how yet another talented singer songwriter would rather be the center of the universe than acknowledge our Creator. She wouldn’t describe it that way. But it’s true. Because when you thumb your nose at your Creator, you decide your eternal fate away from Him.

Janis seems like a pleasant, soft-spoken person. But that’s not a ticket to paradise.

No valentines will pull you through
When your full life depends on you.
So, focus past your misspent youth
And trust The Way, The Life, The Truth.

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Lay Lady Lay? Are you kidding me? Bob Dylan is one of those people who was very fortunate to have been born in America. (psst…I am, too. But for much different reasons) Because with that voice, and some of those songs, he might have been imprisoned for crimes against the state in other countries.

Mr. Dylan recorded Lay Lady Lay on this date back in 1969.

And I read that it was supposed to be a song for the movie, “Midnight Cowboy.” There’s the first red flag. Because that movie was despicable. Thankfully I never saw it. But I’ve read about it. Yuck.

Anyway, Bob’s song wasn’t submitted in time to be included in the movie. But somehow it was still released to the public. And I say it that way because it’s such an inane song. I mean, check out the lyrics to the “first verse.”

Lay, lady, lay
Lay across my big brass bed
Yeah, Lay, lady, lay
Lay across my big brass bed
Whatever colors you have in your mind
I’ll show them to you and you’ll see them shine

Yeah, the first nine words are so profound, that Mr. Dylan felt the need to repeat ’em.

And the next 17 words sound like somebody who’s smokin’ or snortin’ somethin’.

Side note:

The main song, “Everybody’s Talkin” from the movie, sung by Harry Nillson, is one of my all-time favorites. And when it was a popular song on the radio, I had no clue it was included in such a creepy movie. Check out the lyrics to the chorus…

I’m going where the sun keeps shinin’
Through the pouring rain
Going where the weather suits my clothes
Banking off of the northeast winds
Sailing on a summer breeze
And skipping over the ocean like a stone

(The songwriter, Fred Neil, does a really nice job on that song, too)

Anyway…

I only brought all this up because I saw the February 13th connection.

There’s no hidden, deeper meaning or reason for me taking Bob Dylan’s song to task. I’ve never been a Dylan fan. His voice is like fingernails on a chalkboard to me. And the fact that a song called “Lay Lady Lay” could have ever been a hit is yet another negative commentary on the state of music in the world.

Other than that, I will leave you with this…
Don’t let good music fall down the abyss.
Listen for words that can lift up your eyes,
Messages made that can help you be wise.

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(Dateline: February 12, 2022) OK, I’m gonna share a little circular vs linear logic with you. And to illustrate (sort of) the point, let’s travel back in time, almost 30 years, to the release of “The Lion King.” Stay with me, and I’ll explain why I’m bringing it up.

That movie is clueless about the importance of circular vs linear logic.

And that’s not surprising, when you consider it’s from Disney…a clueless corporation. Not to mention (but I am), the main players involved in the making of that movie.

One of them was a guy I just talked about a few days ago, Elton John.

Elton took the words, written by a guy named Tim Rice, and composed a hit song for the movie. The chorus to the lyrics say…

“In the circle of life
It’s the wheel of fortune
It’s the leap of faith
And it’s the band of hope
Till we find our place
On the path unwinding
In the circle, the circle of life”

On the surface, it appears innocent enough. Especially when you hear words like “faith” and “hope.” And the movie uses cute, cuddly, funny, and strong animals to tell the story. So, what’s not to love?

For the record, I don’t have a problem with anybody using cute, cuddly, funny, and strong animals to tell a story.

I just prefer they don’t perpetuate lies.

Especially lies that highlight false “faith” and false “hope.”

The ratio of birth to death, on planet Earth, has always been 1:1. So, if you were born (or hatched, as the case might be), you’ll have to experience death eventually. And here’s where it gets real up in here. You’re not coming back. Not even as a cute, cuddly, funny, or strong animal.

Don’t feel bad. Neither is anybody else.

Why?

Because life is linear. Not circular. And that’s because time is linear. Not circular.

Today…all of past history…will NEVER be repeated. Sure, “Groundhog Day” was a funny movie. But it was a movie! Make believe! Not real! Have I made my point so I can quit yelling?

Every day you live takes you closer to that day when your body will finally run out of energy and fall down for the last time. So, every day leads you somewhere. But it never takes you back where you’ve been. And it never will. And, after you fall down for the last time, time will continue to move in the same direction. You’ll go with it. But…

You won’t be here. You’ll be in the place you chose while you were here. And it will be a permanent choice. So the place you chose will be permanent, too.

Sure, you can disagree with me. But that’s a risk I hope you don’t take.

You won’t be circling back here to planet Earth to get another chance. I know you’ve watched more than one movie where somebody had to save the day and you heard, “We’ve only got once shot at this…” Right? Then, they had to cut the green or red wire. Or they had to make a seemingly impossible jump across a canyon.

Yeah, that’s all symbolic of the very real scenario you and I have to face in life. And that’s why it’s crucial to understand the circular vs linear explanation of life. Because, just like choosing the wrong wire would destroy the hero of the movie, choosing the wrong eternal destination will destroy your chance for eternal happiness.

So, don’t do that.

And the reason I thought about all this today is how February 11th and 12th are connected in a weird way for Elgielene and me. I posted how my mom died on February 11th of last year, 2021. And Elgielene’s mom was born on February 12th, almost a century before that. (She’s gone, too.)

Some might mention the so-called “circle of life” when they hear of things like that. But they’d be wrong. Or, at the very least, confused.

Here’s the linear view, from my song “Carry The Dream”

Someday is comin’ at me like a meteor.
Tomorrow flew by me a few days ago.
I don’t have the time to waste that I used to.
Now I see there may be some things I will never know.

You get once chance. And I encourage you to choose the green wire of life. Make that leap across the deep canyon. And there’s only One Way to be able to do that.

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She was born in the late 1930’s. A time when America was in the worst depression it had ever seen (at least up to that point). And she witnessed a lot of changes in the American life during her lifetime. Not to mention all the technology…which she DID mention fairly often. She told me she didn’t necessarily like where the changes seemed to be leading this country. And the reason I’m thinkin’ about that right now is because she died one year ago today.

It sounds uncanny to even say “one year ago today.”

My brother and I discussed it last night. How we both used to wonder (when we were still young and naive) why “old people” always talked about how time flies. But now we actually SEE it with our own eyes. And it’s a blur.

And it appeared that Mom was fortunate enough to die in her sleep. I think if you ask a thousand people how they’d prefer to die, it would be close to a thousand who’d say “die in my sleep.”

But here’s a harsh fact. Most people, who peacefully die in their sleep, discover it was the final peaceful experience they’ll ever have. Because when that last breath left their body, they ran out of time. For the most important decision any person on Earth could ever make. Life. Or death.

And there’s no doubt about it, despite what a Calvinist might tell you, the decision is yours.

And that decision is: Where do you want to spend eternity?

The choice IS yours. And there are only two options. Live forever, with God, in paradise forever. Or die forever, on your own, separated from God, the source of life.

Fortunately, Mom chose wisely.

Long before her final night in bed here on Earth she decided to accept the gift of Grace freely handed to her by Jesus. And I feel sorry for other people and the lack of peace they must feel not knowing where loved ones go when they die. There’s a verse from an old Christian hymn that says,

Perfect submission, all is at rest.
I, in my Savior, am happy and blessed.
I’m watching and waiting, I’m looking above,
Filled with His goodness and lost in his love.

I hope that Blessed Assurance is yours. If not, don’t wait till it’s too late.

(And Happy First Anniversary in Heaven, Mom!)

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I’m not sure I would have left my love for the drums if he hadn’t existed. Because, I’ve always really loved playing the drums. But then I heard some catchy hit songs on the radio. And then my brother gave me an album as a high school graduation gift. And suddenly my musical desires marched to a different drum.

And that different drum was a piano.

Those catchy hit songs were from an obscure piano player. You’ve probably never heard of him. Reginald Dwight. But wait. Maybe you’ve heard of his stage name. Elton John.

Yeah, Mr. John…or should it be Mr. Dwight? Come to think of it, neither one sounds right. Those are both first names. Oh, whatever. Who cares? That’s not the point I’m trying to make anyway.

It was on this date (as I write this), February 10, that Elton had his first No. 1 album in England (aka the UK). The album was “Don’t Shoot Me I’m Only The Piano Player.” And it was No.1 for six weeks. And maybe you’ve heard a couple of his catchy hit songs from that collection. “Daniel” and “Crocodile Rock.”

I read an article that said the title for the album happened as a result of something Elton said when he met Groucho Marx. Groucho called him John Elton, as he pointed his first two fingers (in the shape of a gun), at “Mr. John.” And Elton held up his hands and said (you guessed it) “Don’t shoot me. I’m only the piano player.”

And I like those kinds of stories. Because they give you a glimpse of the historical connections each generation has. But something occurred to me when I read that article.

Elton sure marched to a different drum from Groucho.

If you watch Mr. Marx’s movies, or his old TV show that ran from 1950-1961, you see his fondness for the opposite sex. And he made it blatantly obvious on many occasions.

Contrast that with Elton John’s fondness for “being” the opposite sex.

Both guys focused their lives and careers on that base level. And they were/are both wrong for doing that. But, at least Groucho clearly understood his natural role as a man. Elton is clueless about the damage he does to himself.

And in spite of my strong, negative opinion of Elton John’s real life and lifestyle I still give him credit for influencing me to play the piano instead of the drums. I’m mighty glad he composed the kinds of songs he did. And I’m mighty glad he was successful in a time when guitar bands were all the rage. Because he showed me the power of piano.

No one ever asked me to play a new drumbeat. Or a new song I covered on the drums. Yeah, I know it’s crazy. But on one ever stuck around for long during my drum solos. Not because they were bad. Because they were drums.

Drums aren’t melodic.

And I can’t think of one example where a singer songwriter had a hit with just his voice and a set of drums. Maybe there’s somebody who did it. But I’ve never heard of it.

Anyway…

I always liked Elton John’s songs. Well, not the ones where he went disco or sugary pop. But the ones from albums like “Don’t Shoot Me…” and “Madman Across The Water.” And “Honky Chateau.” And “Tumbleweed Connection.” I appreciate Elton’s ability to put a melody to catchy, clever, and concentrated lyrics.

But I wish he would realize the damage he’s done, and is still doing, to his soul. It’s permanent damage. In fact, it’s potentially eternal damage. And it would be such a waste for him to spend eternity in torment. Thinking about what he did to himself and others. Because I know how miserably sad he’s gonna be if and when that time comes.

I’m grateful for his influence, though. Because the hundreds of songs I’ve written might never have seen the light of day if it weren’t for him. And there’s an odd sort of connection between my lyrics and those of Elton’s songwriting partner, Bernie Taupin. We both talk about God. And Jesus.

But to Bernie and Elton, those seem to be just regular names to use.

And to me, they’re the names above ALL names.

So, while I love their music, I despise their nonchalant disregard for the One who made them. And I despise how much damage they’ve done in the world as they’ve attempted to glorify perversion.

You might think I’m wrong because of my contempt for their lifestyle.

But, hey…don’t shoot me, I’m only the piano player.

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