The TRUTH Will Set You Free - The blog from - Page 67 of 164

Posted on March 17, 2021 by TonyMarch 31, 2021

Power amplifier turns the volume up way higher

Did you see that movie “This Is Spinal Tap” about a fictitious rock band in a fictitious rockumentary? If not, no great loss. I never saw the whole movie either. But I saw some funny clips. And one that stands out is one of the members of the band is asked why the knobs on his power amplifier go to 11 instead of the usual 10. And in a fictitious English accent he answers, “Well, it’s one louder isn’t it.”

Yeah, when your goal is to be the loudest band in the world, it makes total sense to have volume knobs that go to 11. Of course, that only works till somebody figures out they can have theirs go to 12.

Then, all bets are off. But they all lose.

Because my power amplifier goes to infinity (and beyond).

And back in 1977 I wrote some ethereal lyrics with an idea for a song. But it never materialized. And that doesn’t matter. Because the act of writing carries a writer along to eventually find the song. And that’s why I kept lots and lots of my non-song lyrics. Like this one…

The Power

If I sat down, and I took the time
To correct the lines and absorb them all,
I would sit in place for so long
That the hourglass would surely rust and fall.

But there is no need for me to worry.
I don’t need to see. And I don’t need to feel.
I might expect a change here and there,
But surely you must see, Or at least you can feel
The power is higher
And all we have to do is close our eyes.

If I stood still, and I counted days
And made up ways to collect them all.
I would never move
“˜Cause there are no ways
I can save them all and take the time.
But there’s no need for me to worry”

“˜Cause the power is higher
And all we have to do is close our eyes.

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Posted on March 16, 2021 by TonyMarch 31, 2021

Negotiation day isn't a million years away

I get regular emails from a guy who knows a thing or two about emails. And he often mentions another guy who the FBI describes as the most feared negotiator. So you’d probably want that guy on your team if you got into a hostage crisis. Or prisoner exchange. Or some sort of armed standoff. Yeah, I’m guessing that negotiation day would go more your way if this guy was on your team.

But, unfortunately, you can’t get this guy on your team.

Because he’s no longer here in the land of the living.

But I read the transcripts of an interview another guy did with this negotiator. And one of the questions the interviewer asked was “what are the stages you go through in a tough negotiation?” And here’s part of what the negotiator said…

Number one is you have to have a valid mission and purpose in place.

You have to absolutely have a clear vision of your long term and continuing and long-term task of responsibility. That”Ÿs step one and that step never leaves you.

In every engagement in every juncture you have to have that solidly in place, you have to own it, it has to be so clear to you that you see it clearly and the reason you have to have that is it will drive the decisions you make during the next stages of negotiation.

The second stage is as problems arise, or as problems exist in the beginning, they must be dealt with. They must be negotiated. You can”Ÿt allow an elephant to stay in the room with you while you work through hard negotiations; you got to solve problems day in and day out as they arrive.

The third step is you have to clear your mind of any opinions, assumptions, and expectations. All of that”Ÿs got to go away that’s the thing we teach called blank slate, we have got to blank our minds throughout the negotiation process.

Number four is we have got to pay close attention when the adversaries demonstrate their emotions, their baggage, their expectations. We have got to pay close attention to that and note that, we have to have that written down, we have to use that to deal with that, to create vision that solves that and then next to last, and this is the hardest part…”

That all sounds like great advice. And I like to refer to it when I need the info. It’s not like my business or daily to-do’s make for a serious negotiation day. But it’s good to be prepared.

But there’ll be one negotiation day that none of his advice will work.

Uh-oh…did you just feel a sharp right turn?

Yeah, you can become another one of the world’s most feared negotiators, and none of your skills will help you when you stand in front of Life’s CEO and Chairman of the Board.

Because opinions, assumptions, and expectations won’t matter. Your clear vision of where you’d like the negotiation to go won’t matter. And not even your amazing problem solving skills will help you.

Of course, I’m talking about your judgment day.

And if you’re gonna do any problem solving and vision building for your future, do it now. Because the choice you make today (right now would be great if you haven’t already) can affect your eternal future.

So, it’s really a big deal.
It’s not silly. It IS real.
Judgment Day is coming soon.
No one here will be immune.

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Posted on March 15, 2021 by TonyMarch 31, 2021

Blinded by the light of what's true and right

“Blinded by the light. Revved up like a deuce, you know a runner in the night.” I remember listening to Manfred Mann’s Earth Band sing that song way back in the 1970’s. And I didn’t learn, till later, it was written by Bruce Springsteen (I’m not one of his fans). But it’s one of those songs that partly sticks in your brain because of the catchy phrase…

Blinded by the light.

And the, in the 80’s, along came another song like that. “She blinded me with science.” I still quote parts of that song anytime Elgielene cleans up and moves things around. “She’s tidied up a bit, and I can’t find anything,” the lyrics added.

OK, so let’s get a little scientific.

Imagine a single cell in your own body. It’s about 1/100 of a millimeter in diameter. Keep in mind, a typical dust particle is about 1/10 of a millimeter in diameter. And now imagine that one, tiny cell contains 25,000 genes and somewhere around 50,000 proteins.

Wow, talk about feelin’ your Cheerios (oops, that reference might be too old for you).

Anyway…

Now, think about how YOU were once no more than that single, tiny cell. And that single cell eventually turned into 20-30 trillion other cells. And those cells formed all your working parts. Plus, every one of those cells have complex little “engines” working round the clock.

I’m just gettin’ started. The complexity gets to me.

And I wish it would get to everybody. But unfortunately, too many people bask in the evolutionary sun lamp and totally reject the Son who made the sun…which is way better than a sun lamp.

For example, consider this.

Researchers studied “the transcripts (copies of RNA produced from the DNA) of just 1% of the human genome. And they discovered…

About 93% of the genome is transcribed (not 3%, as expected). Further study with more wide-ranging methods may raise this figure to 100%. Because much energy and coordination is required for transcription this means that probably the whole genome is used by the cell and there is no such thing as “˜junk DNA’.
Exons are not gene-specific but are modules that can be joined to many different RNA transcripts. One exon (i.e. one part of one gene) can be used in combination with up to 33 different genes located on 14 different chromosomes. This means that one exon can specify one part shared in common by many different proteins.
There is no “˜beads on a string’ linear arrangement of genes, but rather an interleaved structure of overlapping segments, with typically 5, 7, 9 or more transcripts coming from the one “˜gene’.
Not just one strand, but both strands (sense and anti-sense) of the DNA are fully transcribed.
Transcription proceeds not just one way but both backwards and forwards.
Transcription factors can be tens or hundreds of thousands of base-pairs away from the gene that they control, even on different chromosomes.
There is not just one START site, but many, in each particular gene region.
There is not just one transcription triggering (switching) system for each region, but many.”

And you can sum all that up in 3 words (which are actually 2 words with one repeated once)…

Complexity begets complexity.

And the only way you can look at the tiniest cell, see all that complexity, and still say it all came from nothing is because you choose to be blinded by the light.

You can disagree with me all you want. Millions do. But it’s your eternity at risk. You good with that?

In awe of all creation and how it all could be
The fairy tale illusions increase with every year.
The wrinkled plans expand…exponentially
Until one day, perhaps, a duck becomes a deer. (yeah, right)

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Posted on March 14, 2021 by TonyMarch 29, 2021

A few years ago I felt like a man of dust. Because I did some handyman work in addition to my ad writing, copywriting, and website building business. I was getting established in a new city after living in another city for over 20 years. And the client connections didn’t materialize fast enough for me to rely on what I’d been doing for a long time. So, being the handy kinda guy, I booked residential appointments to fix stuff.

But unfortunately, like I said, I became that man of dust.

The settled dust in houses where owners neglected to clean often enough…if at all. And sawdust from woodworking projects. But worst of all, sheetrock dust.

And I believe the sheetrock dust, in addition to exposure to mold (in those houses that owners neglected to clean properly) proved to be my arch enemy, as far as my overall health.

Yeah, in January of 2018, I woke up one morning with what I thought was a head cold. But a couple of weeks passed, and my “head cold” was still there. Not like me at all. Because I’ve always had a great immune system. And most illnesses, in my life, never lasted long.

But I kept getting up and going to work. Back to those houses filled with dust. And back to those woodworking and sheetrocking projects. And the “head cold” went from weeks to months.

I finally had to break down and admit something more than a “cold” had a hold on me. And Elgielene said if I didn’t go to the doctor and find out what was going on, she’d have to put me out of my (her) misery.

So, I went.

And through steroid prescriptions and rescue inhalers I was able to sort of “control” the breathing issues. But I could tell the root cause wasn’t being addressed. And I eventually went through a sinus surgery to move things around and open sinus areas.

Then, I had to see a pulmonary specialist because the sinus surgery didn’t open my lungs. And the pulmonary guy got me on some strong steroids and it helped clear my lungs much more. But my breathing issues still persist (over 3 years later), even though they’re on a much better level. And I’m hopeful a better solution is in the near future.

But I didn’t share all that with you so I could throw a pity party.

I shared the story because it reminded me of how Paul said a human is a “man of dust.” And I found it ironic how we’re essentially made of dust, but we don’t tolerate dust very well.

And that connects to how there won’t be any of that “dust” in Heaven. Not the normal settled dust you have to clean off your furniture. And none of that dust from dusty humans either.

Because dust is synonymous with corruption. And that dust won’t be tolerated in Heaven. And like Paul said, “this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible has put on incorruption, and this mortal has put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written:

“Death is swallowed up in victory.”

And that’s why I consider myself highly blessed, even during these past 3 years of dealing with dusty lungs and sinuses. Because that dust only corrupted my physical health. It didn’t corrupt my heart. Because that was permanently healed when I trusted Jesus to save me.

Yeah, that’s right. I turned a handyman story into heart-healing story.

But that’s how it is when you sprinkle the dust with Living Water.

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Posted on March 13, 2021 by TonyMarch 28, 2021

Someday is gonna happen, so keep your fingers snappin'

Yesterday was that day. Today is that day. And tomorrow will be that day. And by “that day” I mean the day somebody was talkin’ about when they said they’d do, be, or try something. You’ve said it. I’ve said it. Most everybody has. Does it sound familiar? “Someday I wanna try (fill in the blank). Or how about, “Someday he/she will be sorry.” Yeah, you know what I’m talkin’ about. And I’m here to tell you someday is gonna happen.

I remember talking to someone, way way back in the 1970’s, about having a positive attitude. Because I remember the person feeling more than just a little down in the dumps. And the conversation was more than a little on the dreary side.

So, I mentioned all the positive things I could think of at the time. And I said something like, “You’ve got great things all around you in your life. You just need to turn your eyes on so you can see the light shining in.”

And I think my advice helped. But our paths diverged not long after, and I have no idea where that person is anymore.

But I remember making my way to a piano, at some point, with an idea for a song. It all started with the line:

Turn your eyes on. Someday is gonna happen.

Turn Your Eyes On

You’ve got a soul but you don’t know where it is.
And you’ve got a heart that’s almost breaking.
You’ve got a mind to end it all and start again
And maybe lose that awful aching…
But it’s an awful chance you’re taking.

I think the brightest days are somewhere up ahead.
I think the time will be worth waiting.
And I know it’s hard to see beyond the way you feel,
But you must stop your senseless hating
And look ahead anticipating.

Turn your eyes on…face the world around you.
Turn your eyes on…don’t let your dreams surround you.
And turn your eyes on…keep your fingers snappin’.
Turn your eyes on…someday is gonna happen.

The time will come when you’ll look at this and laugh.
You’ll wonder just what you were thinking.
But now you gotta get a grip and face the world
And keep your better side from shrinking…
And keep your puzzle pieces linking.

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Posted on March 12, 2021 by TonyMarch 14, 2021

Admit it. It can be so hard to admit it.

Remember that time you got into an argument with that certain someone? And remember how you recalled something one way, and they recalled it another? Then you both took a firm stand and neither of you would budge. And you just knew you could figure out that one thing to say so they could see where they got it wrong. But then they said something that proved you wrong. And you had to admit it. Remember that time or those times?

Yeah, me neither.

Because, when you’re wrong, it can be so difficult to admit it.

But humility can be (and should be) your greatest strength. So, why do think it’s so hard to be humble?

Maybe it’s because you think more like the lyrics in that old Mac Davis song. “Oh Lord, it’s hard to be humble. When you’re perfect in every way. I can’t wait to look in the mirror…’cause I get better looking each day.” Sure, Mac was using facetious humor. But it’s funny because there’s a lot of truth in it.

And it’s important to see life from the right perspective. You and I are not “all that and a bag of chips,” when compared to Creator of the universe. Think about it. When was the last time you thought about something, and spoke some words, and what you thought about appeared?

A: it happens all the time. Or B: uh…never

Yeah. Me too.

That brilliant guy named Paul, who wrote to all us gentiles, thought it was crucial to be patient and humble. But he showed us how it’s important so we can teach and correct others. Yep, even correct them. He said:

“And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition…”

But admit it. That’s more than a little difficult sometimes. Right?

And that’s where the strength of humility comes in.

When you can admit that, on your own merits, you’re not worthy of eternal life, you can help others understand that about themselves, too.

But who cares? Why even bother with what others choose for their lives?

Because if you don’t, it shows how much you hate them. Sure, that sounds harsh. But it’s true. If you don’t care what happens to others when they die, you certainly can’t call that brotherly love.

And your Creator wants you to tell other people He’s got eternal life waiting for them. But they need to know they haven’t done a thing in the world to deserve it. And they need to be able to admit it’s true. Yeah, it’s tougher for some than others. But no pain, no gain.

Can I get an Amen
From the people who know
How to get to Heaven,
When it’s time to go?

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Posted on March 11, 2021 by TonyMarch 21, 2021

Some guy named Joe is puttin' on a good show

Ever since the Donald left the white house, some guy named Joe has been there. And he’s doin’ a good job. A mighty good job. So, I just wanted to touch base with you and let in on the latest political news. See ya later.

(*needle scratch sound) Yeah, you know what’s dripping, don’t you?

But I’m only being a little sarcastic. Mostly I mean it. Some guy named Joe, who pops up every now and then and pretends to know what’s going on, is actually doing a good job.

Well, I guess I should clarify.

Old Joe whatshisname is doing a good job of carrying out the anti-God agenda that leftists thinkers (and that’s an oxymoron) have up their virus-laden sleeves. Trouble is…at least for Joe…is he probably doesn’t even realize most of it.

But I’m sure he wouldn’t care even if he DID realize what’s going on.

Because people who wanna be kings and queens (and that goes for boys or girls) don’t want the whole issue of right and wrong bogging things down. It’s not a matter of what’s TRULY right or wrong. It’s all in how you FEEL about it.

And as long as it makes you feel good to steal from hard-working people and give that money to people who won’t work, illegal immigrants, and anybody else who’ll vote for you, then do it.

But the sad irony is how minuscule their little reigns of power will seem to them in the final analysis (aka White Throne Judgment). And I know that sounds like a lot of hooey to people who’d rather believe in aliens and that nothing created everything. But it’s still true.

And as far as some guy named Joe, in Washington, is concerned…

A nod is as good as a wink to a blind horse.
And a feeling is as good as logic, of course.
And who cares what might happen because he’s immune,
To the dire consequences, inside his cocoon.
So, three cheers for the guy who says he’ll unify
All of us who are ready to nod and comply.
I believe he means what he’s saying. How ’bout you?
Could he say it all, if it just wasn’t true?

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Posted on March 10, 2021 by TonyMarch 21, 2021

Divisive, decisive, and delightfully incisive

Mountain goats. Awesome animals that live high in the mountains most of the time. Mountain Goats…a stupid band from North Carolina who probably wouldn’t know truth if it zapped through their instruments, traveled up their fingers, and stimulated whatever brain cells they have left. But I don’t know them. So, maybe I shouldn’t get started on what I really think. Besides, I’m a white supremacist, racist, bigot, homophobic (and all other “woke” phobics) singer/songwriter. What do I know about truth and music? And I don’t wanna be divisive or anything.

But wait. Isn’t it divisive to call someone a racist?

I mean, if you start name-calling as you blast out expletives, how many huggy hug hugs are you gonna pile up. And ain’t that some of the rewards of inclusion? Huggy hug hugs.

But it’s “all good” when you’re bleepin’ away for a leftist cause. Virtue signaling for a platform where God and truth aren’t welcome, appreciated, or tolerated.

Case and point?

The Mountain Goats (band) verbally attacked Eric Clapton and Van Morrison on social media (where all the brave soy boys thrive). Yeah, apparently Clapton and Morrison dared to write and perform protest songs. But not against the accepted targets. No, they’re protesting lockdowns.

Say it ain’t so, Layla!

Yeah, Clapton and Morrison recorded a song that Van wrote called “Stand and Deliver.” And Mr. Morrison released three other protest songs. “No More Lockdown” and “As I Walked Out” and “Born to be Free.”

I’ve been a Van fan for a long time. Now, I might have to look at these songs more closely and see if his thinkin’ ain’t stinkin’. And my guess is, it ain’t. Because an article I read said the songs “portray the coronavirus lockdowns as ‘fascist’ and also hit Hollywood celebs for telling us what we’re supposed to feel.”

Bam! Left jab and a right cross (subtle double entendre intended)

I love it when basically anybody decides to choose right over popular. But it’s particularly satisfying to see popular music icons land on the right side of issues. And I say “land” because so often they got there due to economic concerns or other self-interests. And not from wisdom.

But regardless of how they got there, it’s awesome to see well-known celebrities buck the virtue politics trends.

And, in the music biz, you don’t get much more well-known than Eric Clapton and Van Morrison. 20 Grammys between them. And tons of other music awards for each of them. I’ve played (and continue to play) several of their songs throughout my years as a singer/performer. And those songs are some of most popular I’ve had in my repertoire.

But now, with the so-called “cancel culture”, these two famous singer/songwriters are experiencing effects of social justice “warriors” who preach inclusion but practice hate. And it’s simply because they ask to see the science for lockdowns and mandates. Plus, they dare to stand for freedom and free enterprise. How divisive of them!

Oh, da noive.

Van Morrison’s lyrics include a jab at celebrities for “telling us what we’re supposed to feel.” And he asks “Is this a sovereign nation or a police state?” He even mentions “our God-given rights.” And Clapton said he’s glad Van is standing up for musicians who are struggling or broke because of the lockdowns.

In fact, the proceeds from Morrison’s songs and performances are going to those musicians.

But, ironically, both famous guys now have to deal with the idiotic social media “outrage.” And many of the mindless twits, who spew their self-righteous and stagnate commentary, are the kinds of “musicians” Morrison and Clapton are trying to help.

I saw where one such dude, on Twitter, wrote “all of Clapton’s racism wouldn’t fit in one screenshot.” Yeah, Eric Clapton is a racist. Because he’s performed with scores of singers and songwriters whose skin is of the more mocha or dark chocolate tones. Yeah, that makes sense.

So, once again, it doesn’t matter what’s true.

What matters is how you FEEL. And if it FEELS right to you, then it IS right. Right?

Wrong. Truth is always gonna be true. And Truth is always gonna seem like hate to those who hate the Truth. So, by default, it’s always gonna be divisive. But that’s eventually a good thing.

And knowing that even Eric Clapton and Van Morrison understand that, in this case, inspires me to focus even more of my singer/songwriter skills on standing for Truth. Because when it comes to getting a point across, there’s almost nothing more magically effective than music.

Stay true to what’s true.
Keep it living in you.
Stand up for what stands
From the work of God’s hands.

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Posted on March 9, 2021 by TonyMarch 21, 2021

Ask yourself these questions by someone's suggestions

Even if you’re not familiar with the world of copywriting, you probably read some every day. Because copywriting is the act of using words to sell. That’s the simple definition. And a guy I’ve been following for over 30 years, Bob Bly, wrote the book on copywriting. Several books to be more accurate. He and I connected on a business social network. And this morning I saw a post, he wrote, that said you should ask yourself these 3 questions before you criticize or argue.

Does this need to be said?
Does this need to be said by me?
And does this need to be said by me right now?

And I agree. Those are good questions to ask yourself.

But I left him a comment that said “They’re also great questions to ask yourself to avoid apathy.”

Especially if you live your life with an eternal perspective. Because when you have security in the knowledge you’re gonna live forever with the Creator of Heaven, Earth, and every living thing, you shouldn’t keep that to yourself. That’s apathy. And apathy is a form of hate.

Hate says, “I don’t care if you hurt others or hurt yourself.” And hate says, “I don’t care if you live forever in Heaven or die forever in hell.”

So, if you hate your fellow man (which includes women, by the way), then don’t consider whether you should tell them about Jesus or not. And don’t consider whether they need to hear it from you or not. And certainly forget about whether they should hear it from you right now or not.

Just live your life.

In The House Of The Lord

Father God,
You never leave me You never forsake me.
And Your Word…”¨Gives me courage to go where you take me.
You are with me through each dire upheaval.
With You in me I will fear no evil.
As I walk through the shadow of death…”¨I will sing till my very last breath…

Green pastures, still waters…
Goodness and mercy for your sons and daughters…
True love dwells in the House of the LORD.
Each person, each nation…
Can be renewed through Your sweet restoration…
True love dwells in the House of the LORD.

Father God,
You made a Way for my total redemption.
I believe…”¨Jesus died to provide that exemption.
He’s my shepherd through thorns and thru clover.
He’s my new wine, and my cup runs over.
As I walk through the shadow of death…
I will sing till my very last breath…

Chorus

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Posted on March 8, 2021 by TonyMarch 21, 2021

No politics or religion makes you a silly pigeon

“Alright. We ain’t talkin’ no politics or religion around here. See? And I better not catch you playin’ the stool pigeon, or you’ll be wearin’ a pine overcoat. See?”

Yeah, those gangsters, from the movies of the 30’s and 40’s really knew how to get their points across. And that’s back when men could be manly in movies, and audiences ate it up. But, wow. Look at how much times have changed.

Now, so-called “men” demand no politics and religion.

Yeah, guys who appear to be of the male persuasion, running companies that produce essentially nothing of lasting value, will censor your media if you disagree. Because they’re ridiculously ill-equipped to present a lucid, thoughtful counterpoint.

So, they come up with the idea that if nobody is allowed to talk about politics or religion, conversations will stay civil, nice, and respectful.

Don’t know about you, but I haven’t seen an increase in civility, niceness, or respect online. In fact, it appears to be quite the opposite. Even to the point of people who call themselves Christians dropping f-bombs all over social media.

I’m not saying they’re not Christians. But I AM saying that sort of behavior belies the claim.

And if you wanna continue to enjoy free speech and meaty discussions, even about politics and religion, don’t be pulled into the ways of the world. Hey…I think there’s a reference to that in the Bible. Let’s see. How did that go?

If I could only remember. It’s something about not jumping off the cliff or into the fire just because everyone else does. No, that’s not it. Hmm…something like…everything old is new again. No. Oh forget it.

But wait…

No. Well, never mind. Just know you should not talk about no politics and religion (double negative equals?) Because most everything else is for everyone else.

And until next time remember: A healthy lifestyle is the slowest way to die. And the only difference between a rut and a grave is the depth.

So eat up and lie down and enjoy life.

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Posted on March 7, 2021 by TonyAugust 3, 2024

Mask mandate, let's be straight, is so full of hate

Hate is push-button easy these days. And the mask mandate, that somebody named Polis living in the governor’s mansion in Colorado keeps extending, is proof of this.

First, here’s why a mask mandate is a form of hate.

If you love your fellow human beings, are you gonna force them to breathe bad air? No. And if you love your fellow human beings, do you want them to deal with extra fatigue, headaches, and loss of concentration on a daily basis? No.

At least I hope your answer is no. Mine is.

The only justification you can have for forcing people to wear a mask, when the science is clear that they’re not necessary, is that you don’t care about them or their health. And anyone who would continue such behavior is a control freak with a power/superiority complex.

For example, the person, named Polis, who’s living in the Colorado governor’s mansion. And it appears Polis has found a way to extend the mandate by simply pushing a button. Polis found this nifty little feature on the Colorado government website, and said…

“I just found this feature. I should’ve done it months ago,”Polis admits. “Everyone knows I’m going to keep extending the mandate, but this way I don’t even have to think about it, it just happens.”

Don’t even have to think about it.

Yeah, that sums up the willfully ignorant, leftist thought process. And I use the term “thought process” loosely.

Those who are in rebellion against God, against truth, and against logic and reason, are deep diving into a bottomless whirlpool of fire. And they’ll eventually discover the endless mandate they imposed on themselves.

And they’ll hate it. Guaranteed.

Singin’ songs before the magistrate…
Songs about the mandate and the hate…
It’s important that my songs run straight
To the Truth that will emancipate.

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Posted on March 6, 2021 by TonyMarch 21, 2021

Peace or liberty, if I can choose just one for me.

Which is more important? More essential? And more vital to human endeavors? Peace or liberty? If you chose peace, go sit down in the back of the class and think about what you just did Mr. Man. Or Missy Miss. Because when, in the course of all human events, did peace throw off the shackles of tyranny?

Now, it would certainly be primo if we didn’t have to choose between peace and liberty.

But, just in case you hadn’t noticed, we don’t live in a perfect world. And there has, so far, been no rapture. So, there’s a whole lot of non-peace stuff going on. Even right here in the good ol’ so-called U S of A.

And I say “so-called” because America is anything but united. But guess what? In a Way, that’s a mighty good thing.

“What?! Division is a good thing?! What kind of crazy talk is this?!”

It’s the kind of “crazy talk” your Creator talked about. Yeah, He backs me up on this whole peace or liberty thing. And you don’t have to take my word for it. Because it’s in His word. He actually said He didn’t come to Earth to bring peace. In fact, He said He came to bring a sword.

But not because God doesn’t want you and me to have peace. But because He requires us to choose. And the Truth of His word (aka His sword) can divide fathers and sons, mothers and daughters, friends from friends. The Truth does that.

I wrote a song about it, which is included on my Amen collection of songs, and gave His sword another name. Not because I think it’s better. But because it fit the rest of the lyrics to…

The Master’s Knife

Don’t be thirsty;
drink from the Living Water
Don’t be hungry;
eat from the Bread Of Life
Don’t be weary;
you’re stronger when you serve
Don’t be defenseless;
carry the Master’s Knife
(repeat)

Even when days last forever
And when the nights bring no comfort
Know that the One who created
Lived and then died for your hurt

repeat chorus twice

Anguish won’t end,
if you trust your own hearts
What matters most
is who’s living within
Turning your backs on the facts is a farce
Give up your life
to the One who became your sin!”¨* Jesus *

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Posted on March 5, 2021 by TonyMarch 5, 2021

A digital publishing company did a virtual interview with me a few years ago when I started publishing some of my kids books there. And it was sort of a get-to-know you kind of thing. Since you might not know some of these things, and I know your inner curiosity cat wants to find out, here it is. I’ll put the questions in bold font…

What do you read for pleasure?

I love the fiction of writers such as C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. I also thoroughly enjoy reading creation science material.

What is your e-reading device of choice?
Currently I use my iPhone and MacBook with reading apps for almost all my e-reading.

What book marketing techniques have been most effective for you?
Word-of-mouth is still the most effective tool. Of course, word-of-mouth has a much farther reach thanks to social media.

Describe your desk
My desk serves two functions…my word writing and my music production. So, I have three laptops with multiple back-up hard drives, and a WiFi printer. Then I have my micro studio mixer attached to two raised studio monitors via a breakout cable. In addition my studio mic is on a boom, there’s a turntable and old cassette player (just in case), my WiFi hub, and oh yeah…my Bamboo drawing tablet for all my digital illustration. (much of that is updated now)

Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
My parents split up when I was a small boy, so my younger brother and I spent 9 months a year in Texas during school. And we spent 3 months a year in Kansas during summer vacation. I think this instilled a sense of travel adventure in me, and this has always been an influence on my writing. Also…I’m sure it influenced my conservative worldview.

When did you first start writing?

When I was about 16, I found that my ability to write “poems on demand” got me attention from girls that was normally reserved for the sports guys. I couldn’t play sports in school because of my yearly split schedule between Texas and Kansas. But that didn’t stop me from writing year ’round. And, of course, once I found out girls loved poetry, well what else could I do but take up writing?!

What’s the story behind your latest book?
I can’t say what the story behind my latest book is because I’m still prepping it for publishing. But my next-to-the-latest book is an imaginary adventure that takes place in one night. Some animals and the wind find themselves in a position to save the world from being stuck in “tween”. Twin girls apparently have the power over day and night, and they prefer time to stand still.

What motivated you to become an indie author?
The time and effort required of an author to just maybe get the attention of a traditional publisher is much better spent actually publishing. When you consider that only a fraction of traditionally published authors receive the actual support and backing of the publishers, it only makes sense to cut out the “middle man”.

Also, since you have to do your own marketing either way…again, cut out the “middle man”. With self-publishing I can choose when the book is ready and put it out there. I pick myself instead of waiting for a traditional publisher who’s typically wrong about 95% of the time.

How has Smashwords contributed to your success?
Smashwords has given me the extra distribution power I need without me having to personally figure out and implement multiple formatting models. They make it easy to publish once and distribute virtually everywhere.

What is the greatest joy of writing for you?

Word pictures. Simple as that. Words paint a completely different picture for every reader. It’s fun dipping into the grammar palette.

What do your fans mean to you?
I’m always humbled by someone finding my work interesting enough to pay for it. I’ll never take that for granted. Without anyone else to read my writing it’s just words I dumped out of my brain to make room for the next. Nothing grows. Nothing blooms.

Well, there you go. If you read this far, I owe you a refreshing beverage. And you can put it on my running tab.

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Posted on March 4, 2021 by TonyMarch 16, 2021

One of my biggest honors was sharing the stage, at a pro-life event in Denver, Colorado, with Alan Keyes. In case you’re not familiar with him, he’s the former ambassador to the UN under former president, Ronald Reagan. Mr. Keyes gave his speech through my Bose sound system. And I sang some original music before and after the dinner.

Yes, meeting him was one of my biggest honors.

But not the biggest of that night.

Even more importantly I was honored to be asked to sing for that group of hard-working abortion abolitionists. And it was an honor to sing for all those little ones who never got the chance to make their voice heard here on our little, blue planet.

And then, a side benefit came to me in the form of a conversation at the side of the stage after the event. I was tearing down my keyboard, mic, and sound system. And one of the guys from the audience came up to talk to me as I worked.

We both mentioned how much we enjoyed listening to Alan Keyes (he’s an awesome orator). And we talked about the overall message and how important it was (and still is). Then, we noticed a song playing in the background, and the guy made a comment about it. I don’t remember the comment. But we both liked the song. And I said something about how much more influence that singer had than me.

And the guy told me something like, “Yeah, but Tony your songs are echoing in the halls of Heaven.”

Wow. That’s one of the nicest compliments anybody ever gave me. I’d like to think it could be true. But regardless, his words stuck with me. And it helped me realize that even when you think you’re just a tiny cog in the wheel, it doesn’t mean your cog isn’t important to that wheel.

So, I encourage you to go forth and cog it up.

And here’s a song it was one of my biggest honors to sing that night.

Personhood

You should thank your Mom cause she thought of you as a person.
From the very start she was calling you her daughter or her son.
And though life isn’t easy; our Moms still believed we would make it.
Now some call life a choice, but it’s still a precious life.
We can’t take it.
We can’t forsake it!

Give an unborn baby personhood
There’s nothing more important we can do!
Give an unborn baby personhood.
50 Million persons beg us to…they beg us to! (much more now)

We can read all the judgements, and continue to build our big plans.
But there are lives in the balance, and the choice is right in our hands.
So do we sit idle? Or is there a way we can stand tall?
Can’t we stand for life? Or do we really stand for nothing at all?
And let the innocent fall?

If human life is just sown by chance, then
Nothing we know could be bad or be good.
If we’re just embryonic particulate matter,
Then we could know there is no personhood…
But we hope and we pray
And we live for the day,
When our love becomes broad
In the image of God…

~ Chorus ~

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Posted on March 3, 2021 by TonyMarch 16, 2021

Freedom is a right But not without a fight.

Freedom is a right. That should be self-evident (as somebody once wrote). But apparently, for a lot of knuckleheads, that information just can’t make it past the knuckles in those heads. So, they toss freedoms out just like they toss their fast-food trash out their car windows.

And that means freedom is a right you gotta fight for.

Uh-oh…did I just end a sentence with a preposition. Well, that’s OK. Because I believe in the preposition that all men (and even some women, too) are created equal. In value. So, that gives me the freedom to end a sentence with for. Bam! I did it again.

Anyway…

I’ve written on the subject of freedom over 80 times here on TonyFunderburk.com. And one of those times I talked about how you gotta keep fighting for freedom since there are so many willing to just give it up. Just like they give up being real men and real women.

Here’s some of what I said, about the struggle, just four years ago…

(…too many people believe only the government can take care of everybody. Too many people are willing to give up freedoms in order to be given something they didn’t earn. And in order for the government to be able to give anything to certain people, it must first take from other people. Don’t know if you know it, but government doesn’t make money. It can only spend what it takes from its citizens. For infrastructure and the defense of its people that’s perfectly logical and reasonable. But to simply take money from some and give it to others is”stealing.

And stealing from hard workers is NEVER justifiable.

At the heart of a successful society is FREEDOM.

And all nations crumble when they remove freedom. Or limit it to the so-called “elite.”

America will be no exception to that rule. This country can only avoid that crumbling fate when the exceptional, liberty-loving citizens refuse to be victims of tyranny.

Open up, America.
Freedom loves this land.
Give yourself a fighting chance
And a helping hand.
You should be the beacon
To the world in chains.
Shine out from the mountain tops
And across the plains.
They can’t lockdown liberty,
If you fight for it.
Open up America.
Time to recommit.

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Posted on March 2, 2021 by TonyMarch 16, 2021

Horse songs tend to have catchy rhythms. I guess it’s because of the hoofbeats. *rimshot* Thanks folks. I’ll be here all week. Be sure to tip your bartender and waitresses. Yes, I said waitresses. Don’t git yer stirrups all tangled up, pawtnuh.

So, here’s the reason I brung up horse songs.

Yesterday, Elgielene and I watched a video of Kristi Noem speaking. Regardless of how you feel about the Governor of South Dakota’s political views, she told a touching tale about her dad and his ranch. She said her dad, who died in a freak accident on the ranch, was a true cowboy. And we liked the story she told about his pickup.

She said you can find out just about all you need to know, about a cowboy, by looking in his pickup.

And she shared the story of how she and her family weren’t sure, at first, what to do when they were hit with a large “death” tax when he died. But at some point, she went to her dad’s pickup to clean it out. And, in it, she found several of his typical “essentials.” A pair of pliers. A Baby Ruth candy bar. Notebooks, pens, and other tools.

And then she found a little cassette from a dictation recorder.

She said her dad dictated notes about his actions, ideas, and observations on the ranch. Then, she found a bunch of other cassettes. And she said she discovered a lot of the answers about how to run the ranch. Answers she had been searching for but didn’t know before that.

Old timers used to call that information her dad recorded “horse sense.” And Kristi was able to take her dad’s “horse sense” (ranching wisdom) and help save the family business.

It’s that kind of story that inspired me to write a song about a horse a few years back. And, of course, I tied the message into how anybody can get answers to life’s problems by talking to our Father. By the way, He left a recording for us, too. If you “pickup” around your house, you might even find it. The label will say something like “Holy Bible.”

Now, check out these lyrics, cowpoke…

My Horse

Heaven holds a place for my horse
Standin’ straight and strong and tall.
All the trails we’ve taken; even when her legs were achin
She never lets me down at all.

God was great when He made my horse…
Perfect since she was a foal.
Ranchin’ skills to master; no horse learned “˜em faster
There’s a bonfire in her soul.

So, Lord don’t take my horse too early
We’ve got lots of work to do.
Chasin’ cattle, lots of ropin’, and it’s silly but I’m hopin’
I can ride her all the way to You.

I’m at home when I’m on my horse.
Across the prairies we will fly.
With her nostrils flarin’ and the people starin’
We could race into the sky.

Chorus…instrumental…chorus twice to end

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Posted on March 1, 2021 by TonyMarch 2, 2021

Back in 2001 my wife and I started a sideline music business focused, at first, on personalized music for kids. And stores that carried my CD’s (remember those?) asked if we had other music for kids, too. So, I wrote and produced a collection of songs that included the names of the stores as titles for songs. I wrote a doodles song for the first store we worked with. It was called Monkey Doodles. But another store used that as part of their name, too.

So, I wrote another doodles song for them.

I’ve always noticed how, for some silly reason, kids have fun making messes. So, I wrote a fun song all about the messes they make. And on my website, I said these are messes “you won’t have to clean up.”

To come up with the lyrics, all I had to do was remember some of the messes I’d seen kids make over the years. Sometimes they’re creative. But most times they’re just dirty, sticky, sloppy, yucky messes. And kids never seem to mind gettin’ the gunk all over ’em. Have you ever noticed that?

Well, the reason I brought it up is because somebody told me, the other day, what a kick they got out one of doodles song. I asked which one, and they said it was…

Apple Doodles

Hey silly kid silly smile on your face
When you draw silly circles all around the silly place
AppleDoodles…oh that’s AppleDoodles
When you make the ketchup squirt
When you’re playin in the dirt
AppleDoodles.
Smear peanut butter and jelly on your pants
And you do it all again when you get a second chance
AppleDoodles…oh that’s AppleDoodles
You can’t help it if you’re cute
Dancin in your birthday suit
AppleDoodles.
Bubblegum stuck in your best friend’s hair
But you’re blowing colored bubbles like you just don’t care
AppleDoodles…yeah that’s AppleDoodles
When you’re the only one
Who thinks your water gun is fun.
AppleDoodles.

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Posted on February 28, 2021 by TonyMarch 16, 2021

Opinions count. Not all of them, of course. But the ones that are tantamount to truth…those count. And, sadly, there are fewer and fewer of those kinds. Because there’s an assault on truth the likes of which America has never seen before. And people who are in rebellion against God attempt to blur facts and figures as often as they stir the synthetic cream into their coffee.

But Truth will not be blurred or squelched forever.

Because opinions count, for good, when they line up with Truth.

And I’m talking about the Truth that has always been. And always will be. The only Truth that will set you free. The Truth that blots out false knowledge and provides eternal life. Everything else is just idle babblings and contradictions. And those are just small-minded opinions. And…

Everybody’s Got One

Jesse says he wants equality; says we’ve got goals to reach.
Jimmy’s war is with iniquity; says he’s got souls to teach.
Norma claims that it’s her right to make her own decision.
Nancy wildly disagrees; they’re on a one-way collision.
Every time you know you’re right
Your opinion’s like a stick of dynamite
And everybody’s got one!

Danny says he wants respect; says he’s got a job to do.
But David jabs and pokes his fun; just the same as me and you.
Pat declares we all should pay to clean up our environment.
And Joan believes it’s federal; so leave it to the government.
Every time you know you’re right
Your opinion’s like a stick of dynamite
And everybody’s got one…everybody’s got one.

Everybody’s got one
Sometimes it’s right, but sometimes we put it in the wrong place.
Everybody’s got one
Sometimes we should hold back,
And those times we end up with egg on our face.
It’s our right, but we’re not always right…not always right,
But everybody’s got one.

Scott insists that we evolved; that Darwin proved it years ago.
But Tony’s faith is with his God; the Holy Spirit tells him so.
And Sue defends the life she leads; calls herself a working girl.
But Kathy says she sold her soul, and that’s the problem with the world.

Every time you know you’re right,
Your opinion’s like a stick of dynamite
And everybody’s got one…everybody’s got one

Chorus…inst…chorus to end

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Posted on February 27, 2021 by TonyMarch 16, 2021

I’m a word nerd. And I’m certain I was born that way. So, you need to just love and understand me. And accept me for the identification I choose for myself. OK, now that I’ve gotten that heated rant off my chest…I only brought it up because of an online dictionary. I just got off the Merriam-Webster website where I found the word of the day. And I wasn’t even looking for it.

I was actually there to compare a definition of a word I had just looked up on my computer’s dictionary app. But when I tapped into Merriam-Webster’s site, right there at the top, it said:

Word of the Day and Words At Play

No, I’m not kidding. They rhymed their links. And that’s not all. Just a little further down the page, they had a link that said, “Word nerds! Save words plus keep track of all your lookups.”

But why am I making such a big deal out of this? And who cares what a dictionary website says anyway? Right? Well, it’s like your computer and devices know almost as much about you as you know yourself these days. And they serve up stuff you thought you only thought about. And because your mind was already on the subject, you click the links.

It’s digitally freaky is what it is.

Of course, I’m kidding (mostly) about the Merriam-Webster website. Because they’re a dictionary. So, naturally they’d be all about words. Even the word of the day. And words at play. And word nerds.

But there’s a whole lot of that behind-the-scenes “listening” going on. If you think not, then either you don’t have a smartphone or computer connected to the internet, or you just haven’t noticed it yet.

And the “listening” part got me thinking about the difference between human listening and God listening. And that difference boils down to one word.

Grace.

That word sums up the glory of God and the shortcomings and failures of man.

Because God hears what we humans say, every day, and He still offers the Grace of eternal life to anyone with the humility to ask for it. You and I have done nothing, and never do anything, to deserve it.

But God doesn’t listen to you with an agenda to trip you up or sell you something. He hears with a pure heart. And He wants us to have that, too. So, the only commandment He makes, during this dispensation of time is to love.

Wow, who’d have thunk that my dictionary lookup, of an entirely different word, would lead to this short message about Grace and Love?

No other doctrine or fable, no genealogy
Compares to creation, with love, cosmology.
So, I turn to the Lord of all understanding
With the goal to do this one thing He’s commanding.

Love.

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Posted on February 26, 2021 by TonyMarch 27, 2024

Stand up straight on the count of eight.

When I was somewhere around 5 years old, I went on a long walk with my Grandmother. And we left her house totally out of sight as we journeyed to the grocery store. In my mind it was easily a walk between countries. Or at least to another state. But, as it turned out, the little mom and pop grocery store was only about 4 blocks away. And I remember my Grandmother telling me to stand up straight or I’d grow up to be a hunchback.

If anyone knew how to stand up straight, it was Grandmother.

She came from a family of straight standers. And tall, too. My oldest uncle (her oldest son) was around 6’4″. So, obviously he must’ve listened to his mom when they went walking.

What made me remember all this was a bit of information I read about singing and posture. It mentioned how, when you sing, you “naturally” sit up or stand up straighter. Of course, you’ll see exceptions to that rule. But the best singers know you have to keep your diaphragm open. And good posture is the best way to do that.

And singing with good posture helps you take better care of your lungs. So, there’s that added benefit, too. Plus, there are groups of muscles called the intercostal muscles that run in between your ribs to help your chest move when you breathe. And when you sing, you give those muscles a nice little workout.

Another side benefit of singing is how it exercises your facial muscles. So, you’ll be able to smile bigger or frown with more intensity. (choose smiling, you’ll look much better)

Wow. I never realized how much Grandmother was preparing me for a career in music. Yeah, there’s a lot of sneaky wisdom in old people…if you care to listen.

Now, stand up straight and sing a song.
Even if nobody sings along.
I’m sure it’s the funnest exercise
To help you grow older, well, and wise.

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Because my power amplifier goes to infinity (and beyond).

The Power

Number one is you have to have a valid mission and purpose in place.

But there’ll be one negotiation day that none of his advice will work.

Blinded by the light.

For example, consider this.

Complexity begets complexity.

But unfortunately, like I said, I became that man of dust.

So, I went.

“Death is swallowed up in victory.”

Turn Your Eyes On

Because, when you’re wrong, it can be so difficult to admit it.

And that’s where the strength of humility comes in.

(*needle scratch sound) Yeah, you know what’s dripping, don’t you?

And as far as some guy named Joe, in Washington, is concerned…

But wait. Isn’t it divisive to call someone a racist?

Bam! Left jab and a right cross (subtle double entendre intended)

So, once again, it doesn’t matter what’s true.

And I agree. Those are good questions to ask yourself.

In The House Of The Lord

Now, so-called “men” demand no politics and religion.

But wait…

First, here’s why a mask mandate is a form of hate.

Don’t even have to think about it.

Now, it would certainly be primo if we didn’t have to choose between peace and liberty.

The Master’s Knife

What do you read for pleasure?

When did you first start writing?

What is the greatest joy of writing for you?

Yes, meeting him was one of my biggest honors.

Personhood

And that means freedom is a right you gotta fight for.

At the heart of a successful society is FREEDOM.

So, here’s the reason I brung up horse songs.

My Horse

So, I wrote another doodles song for them.

Apple Doodles

Because opinions count, for good, when they line up with Truth.

Everybody’s Got One

Word of the Day and Words At Play

Grace.

If anyone knew how to stand up straight, it was Grandmother.

“Death is swallowed up in victory.”