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Posted on May 3, 2020 by TonyMay 5, 2020

Heavy metals – no, not those long hair guys

Cue up Iron Man, movie and song, and let’s rock some heavy metals. Wait. Wait!. Stop the music! No, not heavy metal music, dude. I’m talking about those elements found in the galaxies. Far, far away. And not all that far. So, go back to bed Ozzy. This ain’t gonna be any interest to you.

Heavy metals shouldn’t be there, I tell you.

But they are.

“For cryin’ out loud, Tony. What in blue blazes are you talkin’ about?”

Easy there little buddy. I’m talkin’ about the so-called big bang again. And this time it’s what’s not supposed to be out there. Especially out in the far reaches of the universe. Heavy elements like iron and heavy hydrogen. Yeah, according to the silly big bang theory, there should only be light elements like hydrogen, helium, and lithium. (Check out my talk about the Sting of lithium.)

But guess what.

There’s a place in the universe, with the mass of 300 trillion suns. And it has a Merrimack (that’s a ship) load of iron. Maybe even lots more. But that shouldn’t happen if the big bang is true. And get this. “Heavy elements are even relatively abundant in nearly empty regions of space that are far from stars and galaxies.”

So “empty regions” of space contain heavy elements. But empty talking heads still choose to believe everything in the universe came from nothing. And then a “big bang” occurred.

Let’s recap.

First, there was nothing. Then, suddenly everything came from that nothing. And people see no problem with that.

And I’m considered a loon. Or unenlightened. Just because I say all the complex design in even a single human cell points, inextricably, to an even more complex designer. Sure, I’m the one living in a fairy tale illusion.

Heavy metals to flower petals,
Creation down the line.
Best conclusion; it’s no illusion,
It all came by design.

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Posted on May 2, 2020 by TonyMay 5, 2020

Geography history and a trouble making me

And now for a little geography history

Wait! Don’t leave! I know you might be thinking geography history sounds too boring. But I’m not talking about dried up dead stuff. Well, maybe a little dried up. But not dead. So, stick with me. Because I’m actually gonna talk a little bit about Sam Cooke first. Now, I know what you might be thinking. “Gosh, Tony. You just said you weren’t gonna talk about dead stuff. And then you bring up Sam Cooke. Plus, what in the world does Sam have to do with this?”

Sam Cooke sang about geography, history, and even math.

OK, I saw some quick hands shoot into the air with the question, “Who is Sam Cooke, anyway?” First of all…are you kidding me?! Second, you can use Google and look him up you know. Also, I sang some of Sam’s songs. Because they were, and still are, good.

But thanks for bringing it up. Sam was a very popular singer/songwriter back in the 50’s and 60’s. And one of his top hits was a song called “What a Wonderful World.” Here are some of the lyrics…

Don’t know much about geography,
And don’t know much trigonometry
Don’t know much about algebra,
Don’t know what a slide rule is for

Two lines, in that section, ring a bell with me. First, the slide rule. I know it’s part of the old stuff nobody uses anymore. But once upon a time, it was the calculator of choice. And I even took a slide rule class in high school. As an elective. It wasn’t required. But I got extra credits for it (and typing) and ended up with more credits than necessary for graduation.

Then, there’s the geography.

And that actually ended up being a touchy subject for me. Because I had a geography teacher who really liked me in his class. But I became a thorn in his side because of a little paper called the Weekly Reader. About once a week (Hey, could that be why it was called the Weekly Reader?) we’d get this little “news” paper and go over parts of it in class.

After a few times of going over articles about evolution as though they were factual, I took a paper home to show my Dad. And, of course, my Dad was no fan of evolution. But like any dad would, he just told me to shut up so he could watch the game. Right? No! My Dad scheduled a meeting and spoke before the school board.

Sometime later, the Weekly Reader was no longer an evolutionary resource in geography class.

And my geography teacher no longer liked me in his class. Apparently he found out about how it all happened. And since he preferred to stick with the whole evolution thing, I guess I became a nemesis rather than a friend.

Such is life.

I found out about geography.
Learned a bit about cartography.
Studied silly evolution too,
Going from the goo and zoo to you.
But it didn’t make a bit of sense,
And I couldn’t sit upon the fence.
And if everybody else could see,
What a wonderful world this would be.

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Posted on May 1, 2020 by TonyMay 5, 2020

Hate goes on and on until all hope is gone

And the hate goes on

Sing it to the tune of the old Sonny and Cher song. And The Hate Goes On. “Drums keep poundin’ rhythm to the brain. La de da de de, la de da de da.” And I’m not talkin’ about just any hate. I mean the vitriolic kind so many people have for God.

Hate for God goes on from schmucks whose brains are gone.

I’ll freely admit (and I have, more than once here on my website)…if God doesn’t exist, I’m a silly, hopeless fool. But the opposite is true, too. If God does exist (and He does), then anyone who hates Him is a silly hopeless fool. And that hopelessness is far more extensive and painful. Because it’ll never end.

The reason I bring this up is because I found a hate-filled comment on one of my articles this morning. And, of course, the hater couldn’t make a point without vile language straight from the gutter. So, he’ll have to find another platform to spew from.

One of the things this “person” said was how he’s glad if he can do anything to hurt God. Because my article said it’s possible for us to make God sad. And I said other terrible things, like:

“So, find good things to say to others. Show them you love them. Even if you have to tell them something they might not want to hear. When you say it with love, they might just listen”and change for the better.”

Yeah, I don’t know what comes over me sometimes. But things like that just flow out of me…a lot. I can’t help it. And when I get vulgar, hateful comments, like the one I saw this morning, it triggers something in me to open up the love gates to full capacity. I know. That’s so mean of me. But I am what I am.

And it’s all about tolerance and acceptance. Right?

Well, at least it is until you wanna share God’s love. Then, all bets are off. You just crossed the line, mister.

But I’ll be fine across that line
‘Cause the love of God is mine.
I’ll opine in the sunshine
‘Cause the joy of God is mine.
And I align with the new wine
‘Cause the life of God is mine.

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Posted on April 30, 2020 by TonyApril 30, 2020

End of April today and what's in store for May

Today is the end of April 2020

Yeah, now that the end of April is here, a third of this year is in the can. And a bunch of this year has ended up in the trash can. At least for a lot of people. Because human beings still don’t know how to be unselfish. As a general rule.

The way it’s gone through the end of April, what do you think May will be like?

My guess is, there will still be the positive people. And the negative people. Sort of like any other time in history. Right? But in these current circumstances, selfishness seems to have no limits. Fake news is everywhere. Even some of it that sounds great. But most of it sounds ridiculous, insidious, and nefarious.

So, who you gonna believe? And is there anyone you can believe?

Well, yeah. But you gotta be more diligent to listen. And watch. And discern. Because, odd as it might seem, there are sharks out there. Ready to swarm in and tear you to shreds. Financially, emotionally, mentally, and even spiritually. And whether they can count you as one of their victims or not depends on your ability to see them.

When May gets here tomorrow, be ready for the virus that was here long before this latest one. The virus of selfishness. Immunize yourself against it. And the only way to do that is to wrap your mind around as much wisdom as you can.

Positive thinking won’t do it. The so-called “law of attraction” won’t do it…and never could. And even those random acts of kindness won’t keep you ready.

Only wisdom can do it.

Good news is…you don’t have to climb to some guru aerie on top of the world. In fact, you don’t have to climb at all. But you DO have to look up. Because that’s where your hope is. Your only hope. And the only hope that takes you through forever.

But maybe you’re already too cool for school. Maybe you don’t need to look any further than your own amazing self for inspiration and motivation. But I wouldn’t bet my soul on it if I were you.

Where do you place your bet?
On a self we’ll all soon forget?
Or a hope who covers your debt?
Have you even decided yet?

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Posted on April 30, 2020 by TonyOctober 26, 2024

Your audio branding coach recommends the personalized approach.

Take the Personalized Approach

People have emailed me this question in various forms lately.

Why does audio need to be personalized?

Never fear. Your One-Man-Branding-Band is here with some info that should help. I’m not your typical (in more ways than one) copywriter or ad writer. A lot of my background is in the music business, audio commercials, and media production. And I use what I call the personalized approach to writing and producing for my clients. Here’s what I mean”

The internet is an ocean of possibility when you use the “personalized approach.”

For example; you might already know”

Most consumers start their searches online with keywords
Digital media can target specific consumers in regional markets
Online media’s effectiveness can be measured more precisely than print or broadcast

In those bullet points notice the words, “keywords, specific, and measured. They all relate to personalizing results. When you’re looking for tires, you don’t want information about how quickly an athlete “tires. And you certainly don’t wanna see results from across the country or around the world. Right?

You might also be aware of the huge effect social marketing is having on the way online business and brand awareness is presented. That’s why I create and produce easy-to-see-hear-read-and-watch content for online ears and eyeballs. And, using the personalized approach, with audio and video, the information goes through. both the “eye gate”and the “ear gate.” When that happens, it’s way more likely to stay there.

Research backs me up on this.

Don’t wait till your competitors are jumping out in front of you with their own catchy audio branding. Get to work on a winning sound with the personalized approach to keep ’em humming your tune and remembering your brand. If you’re ready and able to get started”

Let’s get to know each other better and stay connected. Join the growing body of believers who signed up for the TRUTH Journal. And receive daily, delightful dashes of salt and flashes of light from the power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

Posted on April 29, 2020 by TonyMay 5, 2020

Poetry in motion

Back in the 80’s music took a sharp, electronic turn. Synthesizers were ubiquitous in top 40. And even drums were digitized. A lot of it was cheesy. But there were plenty of songs I enjoyed, too. One of them popped into my head, early this morning. And I think it was because of one short line in it. “She’s poetry in motion.”

I’ve always loved that little phrase, poetry in motion.

And I guess it’s because poetry has always given me motion. I love the rhythm in the rhyme. And that’s a cool part of the gift God gave me in the world of music. Rhythm.

The whole world has a rhythm. It’s almost like there’s a designed purpose for our planet. And our solar system. Even the whole universe. You know…like it didn’t happen by accident. But, of course, that’s just silly talk from a poet and a songwriter. What do I know about science?

Hmm…science. That takes me back to the song I referenced with the poetry line in it. It was a song, written and performed by Thomas Dolby, called “She Blinded Me With Science.” Here’s the verse I mentioned…

But, it’s poetry in motion
And when she turned her eyes to me
As deep as any ocean
As sweet as any harmony

If you get a chance, click or tap on the link and check out the music video.

It’s kooky. He checks into the home for deranged scientists as the electronic beats churn out the song. And it plays almost like a Mel Brooks parody movie. But I won’t give it away. Enjoy it when you can.

In the meantime…

When the world is waking up
And there’s coffee in my cup,
And my thoughts begin to gather into words,
I can start to see the way
I’ll be taking life today.
And my heart and mind embrace like two lovebirds.
As the sky turns orange and blue
I can see another view.
My perspective soon becomes a metaphor.
And it gives me joy to see
This life God has given me.
Because I know it goes on forevermore.

Stay tuned,

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Posted on April 28, 2020 by TonyMay 5, 2020

Hard work and dedication

It’s not the same thing to everyone. For example, farmers need a lot of physically demanding hard work and dedication to grow food. And there are guys who somehow manage to wrestle steel, glass, and concrete into skyscrapers. But it’s not just the guys. There are plenty of women doing amazing work every day. And let’s not forget the nose-to-the-grindstone musicians. (*sound effect: needle scratching across a vinyl record)

“Did he just include musicians in the hard work and dedication group?”

I know it sounds like crazy talk. But musicians who truly want to make a living with their gift and skills, work hard. Maybe not the same physically demanding type of work as other jobs and professions. But it takes a lot of work and sacrifice to be able to sing well and compose and produce music. Stop shaking your head. It does. I know. Because I put in way more than the 10,000 hours they talk about in motivation seminars.

But before you dump musicians into one box, let me share a little bit about the other work I’ve done.

At the tender age of 12 I took on two paper routes in Pasadena, Texas. And I delivered the Houston Chronicle…which was not a small paper. Each day, after school, my papers were delivered to my Dad’s house. And I’d roll ’em up, put ’em in the rack on the back of my bike, and deliver ’em before supper. Plus, the giant Sunday paper had to go out early each Sunday morning.

When I was 13, I was hired to tend to a family’s farm and livestock while they went on vacation for a month. That same summer I learned to drive a tractor equipped with a hay rake. All day long for days. In the hot Kansas summer sun. With no shade, except for the trees at the edge of the field when it was lunch time.

At 14 I started hauling hay for 12 to 18 hours a day…again, in that hot Kansas summer sun. Bucking bales onto the back of a flatbed truck. And then taking them to barns to be stacked inside. Two cents a bale. After two or three summers of that, I spent one more summer laying sod. Sweaty, dirty work.

And in high school I had after-school jobs that included sacking and stocking groceries, baling recyclables at Sears, and even helping fellow students with their homework.

After graduation, I worked at a lumber yard for a couple of years. Loading lumber, driving the lumber trucks and forklift, and carrying large loads of sheetrock, by hand, into new construction homes. But it certainly helped pump me up. Because I was able to even carry a 94 pound bag of cement on each shoulder from the trucks to the site.

“Yeah right, Tony. And what’s this got to do with musicians?”

Wait. I’m gettin’ to that. After almost 5 years in Kansas I returned to Houston because my Dad was diagnosed with “terminal kidney failure.” And I wanted to spend time with him. He lived another 9 years after the diagnosis, so I got to know him better. When I first got there, I got a job as a trim carpenter. It was learn-as-you-go. And I gotta tell you. Hand nailing base, casing, shelving, crown moulding, and more…in the heat and humidity Houston can throw at you…ain’t no picnic.

Each night, after work, my brother and I would work on learning and playing some popular songs. And eventually we started doing auditions around the city. So, carpentry by day. And music auditions in the evenings. We even entered talent shows and gong shows. For some reason those were popular back then.

And we were great. So great, in fact, that in one competition we lost out to a guy who could balance a lawnmower on his chin. And in another show, we lost out to a less-than-manly guy who disco danced on roller skates.

Finally, after tons of auditions, we landed a “sweet gig” in a very popular night spot on the West side of Houston. We were the happy hour duo. So, we got to play steadily for five nights a week. Every week. For a whole year. And from that nice venue, we were able to have other venue owners come see us instead of doing all those auditions. That got us some nice ongoing circuits. And were off to the races after that.

Because of all our hard work and dedication we were able to play music around a lot of America. And then I had some awesome traveling years as a solo performer, too.

And I remember, more than once actually, a guy…typically a drunk guy…telling me (in those colorful ways drunks tell you) that I had it made.

“You don’t know what REAL work is, dude!”

Then I’d get the story of his personal hell. Followed by, “Yeah, must be nice. Work 4 hours a night. Sleep all day. Hang out by the pool. Get all the girls you want. Yeah, you musicians wouldn’t know real work if it bit you in the…”

Or some rant like that.

Well, of course that’s the way it is. Because songs just magically fall into our brains. And we get hired right away since we already know every song that’s worth knowing. No rehearsals, scales, or vocal training required.

You know. Now, that I think about it…I almost feel guilty for having such an easy life.

Almost…

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Posted on April 27, 2020 by TonyApril 29, 2020

Check out my solo logo

Back in the olden days…the fourth quarter of the twentieth century…I played music for a living. And I was a member of duos, trios, and four piece combos (aka bands). That was fine, and it was even fun sometimes. But for much of my professional career I was a solo performer. And that’s how my solo logo originated.

If you’ve followed me for a while, you’ve seen my solo logo.

But you might not know it’s not just a snazzy graphic. Check out my signature at the end of this post. Or look at the top of my website. And you’ll see my full name. The “Tony” part, in blue cursive on a music scale, is a logo. It was designed by a friend of mine back in the 80’s.

As I already mentioned, it’s not just a design. It’s my actual signature. I asked my friend, a graphic designer, to come up with a logo for me. He said he noticed my “nice handwriting.” And he suggested I write my name on a piece of his design paper. Then he took my signature and came up with rest.

I thought (and still think) it was awesome. Because it truly does look just like my writing.

And the reason I bring it up is because someone recently mentioned how much they like it. That’s happened a lot, over the years. So, the cool design still attracts attention. It stood the test of time, so to speak.

I wish I could say the same about my friendship with the guy who designed it. But he always stood his ground on his agnostic or atheistic worldview. And back in the late 90’s I guess he decided my Christian worldview would be too much of a barrier. So, at some point, I just never heard from him again.

And that’s too bad. Because I certainly enjoyed our “intellectual” conversations. Even our debates.

But at least one good thing, from our friendship, still remains. Is it a sign? No. It’s a logo. 🙂

Stay tuned,

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Posted on April 26, 2020 by TonyMay 5, 2020

Beware the Back Stabbers

“They smile in your face…All the time they want to take your place…The back stabbers.” Yeah, the Ojays song was telling guys to watch out. Because there are other guys out there who wanna take your woman. And they’ll act like your friend. But they’ve got sinister plans. So, you best beware.

And there a lots of different kinds of back stabbers out there.

In case you haven’t noticed (and if you haven’t, what planet have you been on?) there’s no end to human beings hate and contempt for one another. As a friend of mine likes to say, “there’s no bottom to that abyss.”

And back when the Ojays sang that song, it was mostly men doing all the worst things in life. But these days you gotta watch out for the women. In the name of “feminism” a lot of the so-called “weaker sex” have proved they can back stab with the best (um…worst) of ’em. All while smiling in your face.

So, what’s the answer to all this hating your neighbor stuff?

Hmm…there oughta be a law. Wait! There are literally already so many “laws” you’re probably breaking one or more just by reading (or listening to) this. And those “lawmakers” are some of the most prolific back stabbers. Because they’re not truly looking out for your best interest. They don’t love their neighbor. They’re too busy reaching into their neighbor’s pocket for money to buy votes from other neighbors.

And, by the way, that’s evil.

But what’s a little evil among friends, right? What does it matter? It’s just how the game is played. Right?

Well, only if you don’t care about (or believe in) what happens after you leave planet Earth.

Because your Creator won’t tolerate bad behavior indefinitely. And He’s very “black and white” when it comes to love and justice. And there won’t be appeals and plea bargains in His court.

So, it’s a good idea (translate: eternally consequential) to focus on what’s truly important in life. And it ain’t your stuff, your neighbor’s stuff, or anything that eventually turns to dust. The important stuff lasts forever. And that includes you. You’re gonna live, or merely exist, forever. And where that will be is up to you. Now.

Don’t be smilin’ in my face
With a knife in your hand
Ready to take my place.
You don’t understand…
How your sealin’ your fate
Unless you change your mind
Before it’s too late.

And you’re one breath away from too late.

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Posted on April 25, 2020 by TonyMay 2, 2020

Stir it up, buttercup - that gift in your grace cup

Maybe it’s time to stir it up

Back in days of musicians getting paid like they were actually providing a good service, I used to sing that song. A Bob Marley song called, Stir It Up. And it was real crowd pleaser. Other songs of his were, too. Jammin’ – Is This Love – No Woman No Cry – and the list goes on. The cool reggae beats, the easy lyrics. What’s not to like? Unless you don’t like reggae, of course. (say it isn’t so) And I can still belt ’em out by the way. If and when I’m stirred up enough. (slight pun intended)

But the Stir It Up song isn’t what I’m talking about right now.

I’m talking about your gift. You know, that special something you have. And don’t tell me you don’t know what it is. Because you do, right? And I know you do because that gift comes from God. He wants you and me to be able to do wonderful things. Especially if we remember Him and mention Him when we do. And that’s not too much to ask, is it?

A lot of Christians, me included, like to spread the message found in 2 Timothy 1:7. And it’s a great message. Because it reminds you how God gave you a powerful brain and love. Plus, it helps you see any fear you might have didn’t come from Him. Great thought tools.

But just one verse before 2 Timothy 1:7 is another reminder. And it’s Paul reminding Timothy (and us) to take action. Paul says “to stir up the gift of God which is in you.” Yeah, you gotta stir it up.

Stir up your gift or it’ll stagnate.

And the Bible is replete with verses and chapters where God encourages and even requires us to take action. He created us with wonderful, powerful brains. And He loves to see what we can do with them and His help.

But God didn’t build automaton robots. You and I are sentient beings with one amazing gift in common. An independent will. In other words, you can choose to use your brain. And you can choose to love. Or you can choose to ignore it all. But God didn’t predetermine whether you would or wouldn’t. He took a risk.

Because you and I can choose…and because we live in a broken, fallen world…we make a lot of bad choices. I know I have. And, if you’re honest, you know you have, too.

So, it’s crucial to lean on the infinite wisdom of your Creator instead of your own. And that choice will help you “stir up the gift of God” in you. But what if you don’t know what your gift is? And how do you stir it up?

Well, if you’re a Christian, I encourage you to go through Paul’s writings in the New Testament. Just in case you didn’t already know this…Paul is the only apostle to the gentiles. In other words, everyone who isn’t a Jew. And that probably describes you. Right?

I dare you to read Paul’s writings and not feel something stirred up inside you. See what he went through just to share the incredible message, and gift of Grace, paid for by Jesus. Read Paul’s letters with your powerful brain open to amazing grace and love.

I believe you’ll be stirred up.

Power and love and a well built brain
Can help you avoid a lot of pain.
But you’ve got to stir it up each day
To push all those doubts and fears away.
Trust in the One who can set you free.
You’ll be glad you did. Just wait and see.

Stay tuned,

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Posted on April 24, 2020 by TonyAugust 3, 2024

“There is no God”

Says the fool. Only a fool could or would dare to make the claim that there is no God. Because it’s a self-refuting assertion. In order to say it so absolutely, you’d have to know everything there is to know about everything in and around the universe. And in order to know all that, you’d have to BE God. Which would mean your argument would sound foolish.

If you believe there is no God, I’ll bet I know something else about you.

You either went to public school, or you were raised in a household of narrow-minded so-called intellectuals.

“Ouch, Tony. That’s harsh.”

Yeah, it is a little harsh. But it’s also just about guaranteed to be true. And I know how those “intellectuals” like to think only Christians can be narrow-minded (which is fundamentally true, by the way). But there’s nothing more narrow-minded than believing your worldview doesn’t even have to be defended.

Yeah, I remember, quite a few years back, a discussion I had with an atheist friend of mine. (He chose to end our friendship because of my Christian worldview…not narrow-minded at all.) Anyway, he said my assertion, that God exists, is the argument the one that requires proof.

He said a negative position, like God does not exist, doesn’t have to be defended. Of course, it’s been a long time, so I know I’m not quoting him verbatim. But that was the gist of it.

According to an atheistic perspective, the fact that “no one has seen God” is proof He doesn’t exist. Since He’s invisible, not in control of the world, and showing no signs of omnipotence, He must be imaginary.

And I can’t imagine how that provides any comfort.

Yes, I’m narrow-minded enough to believe there’s only one way to eternal life with God. And I’m narrow-minded enough to believe that one way is found only in the Christian faith. But I don’t believe it simply because it was force-fed to me by family or school or even church.

I’ve examined a lot of evidence. And I’ve seen how the whole world is full of evidence for the existence of my Creator. And it brings me an enormous amount of comfort to know life in this filthy, fallen world is not the end.

I’m living on when I die.
I will live forever in that sweet by and by.
And it brings me joy, that this world cannot destroy,
To know I won’t die when I die.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind The TRUTH today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book…good stuff.

And share with everyone you know. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.

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Posted on April 23, 2020 by TonyApril 28, 2020

Can music change your mood? Maybe, with the right attitude.

Hmm…can music change your mood?

Spoiler, and short answer…no. Apparently a lot of people use that search phase, can music change your mood, on Google. Because Google serves up a lot of results for the question. But it’s really simple. Music cannot truly change your mood. And I’m not just saying this to start an argument, by the way.

If you ask, can music change your mood, you don’t know how moods work.

Moods are choices.

“Oh brother, Tony. You just really don’t care about people and their feelings, do you?”

Well…yes and no. Because I know you can choose your attitude. And you’re not gonna tell me you don’t know how to control yourself, are you? I hope you realize how much control over yourself is available to you. You’re not AI. And you’re not a robot, android, or some other form of automaton. You’re a designed human being. With a lot of potential for intelligence and discernment.

So, you should be able to choose a good attitude even if you have no access to your electronic devices filled with music.

Now, I wouldn’t go so far as to say music plays no part in emotions. Far from it. Of course, music can make a ton of difference in your day. But only if you let it. Right? Because when you’re determined to be ticked off about something, do you really think Mr. Rock Star or Miss Pop Star are gonna turn it all around for you?

And if you think they can, I have to wonder what you’re smoking.

For example, maybe what I’m saying strikes a wrong chord with you. So what. That just means you disagree. And you can play your personal top forty over and over again, and I doubt it’ll change your mind. And that’s OK. You can be wrong and get through life.

But I encourage you to choose your attitude even better than you choose your music.

Choose joy and life and love
Because they’re yours to choose.
Drop angry ugly moods.
What do you have to lose?

Well, you could lose your soul
Forever to the dark
Recesses of despair,
Where anguish makes its mark.

So sing those kinds of songs
That show the attitude
Reflected in your heart
Filled up with gratitude.

Stay tuned,

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Or how about some music for kids

Posted on April 22, 2020 by TonyJuly 13, 2023

Why do I write rhymes for you?

Well, first off…maybe I don’t. After all, you might not like my style of writing. Or rhyming. And you almost certainly won’t like what I write about. At least not all (or most) of the time. But the reason I bring it up is because somebody recently asked me why I write so many rhymes for you, my readers and listeners. Simple…

Yeah, I write lots of rhymes for you because it’s my thang.

And we all gotta have our thang. Right? And I started writing rhymes way, way, way back in high school. So, it must be my thang because I’m still at it all these thousands of years later.

But, all seriousness aside…my brain seems sort of hardwired to think in rhymes. My wife will tell you about (or rather ask you to save her from) my daily rhyme talk. She’s been with me over 30 years. And somehow she’s managed to stay sane, even in the wake of all my iambic pentameter insanity.

And a lot of brand experts will tell you how you need people to either love you or hate you. Because then you know you stand for something. And then you know the ones who choose to follow you, or hit the like button, or give you thumbs up, truly know what they’re getting. So, here’s one of the ways I CHOOSE to do that with my rhymes. (Fair notice…this is pro life stuff)

The Choice You’re Making Now

You’re standing on the edge of a decision.
You’re hiding from the eyes of future dreams.
You think you’re facing cold hearts and derision,
But this life isn’t always what it seems.

You’re drowning in the murky mass opinion.
You’re gasping for a breath of fresher air.
Denial of the truth makes you a minion,
Denial of a life means you don’t care.

Caught in a whirlwind, swimming in flames”
Counting the faces without any names,
And it’s the choice you might make now that blames
You.

You tell yourself it’s sweet emancipation.
But, sadly, you will just become a slave
To nightmares, lies, and selfish adoration
Of ideas reaching far beyond the grave.

Before erasing someone else’s chances
For life and liberty and happiness,
See how you get to choose your circumstances.
Why would you want them having any less?

Caught in a whirlwind, swimming in flames”
Counting the faces without any names,
And it’s the choice you might make now that blames
You.

Stay tuned,

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Posted on April 21, 2020 by TonyApril 21, 2020

Since you’re not doing anything right now,
got any ideas for a song?

I’m kidding. Well, about the “not doing anything” part. But not about the ideas for a song. I’m in the process of writing, composing, recording, mixing, and mastering 12 tracks for a very important music project. And I’m down to the last two tracks. So, I’m tossing this out to readers (and listeners)…

Yeah, if you’ve ever thought you had some good ideas for a song…

…here’s an opportunity to see one of your ideas put to music. But there’s a deadline. Because I’m working on a deadline, so you’ll have to have one, too. So, if you have ideas…you know, a title, theme, maybe a line you think sounds good, share ’em with me. You can email me using that form on the side. Or you can listen to my The Power of God’s Love Podcast and in some of the episodes I include my direct email address.

The main thing is…you gotta get your ideas to me before Saturday, April 25, 2020. And if I use your idea, you’ll get a secret link to a free download of the song. Oh yeah. A couple more details. Your ideas have to be about getting, being, living, or staying strong. Like the theme to Rocky movies. I’m not doing that style of music. But that music has the right “strong” theme. Maybe you have another favorite movie that inspires you. Use that.

I’m looking forward to seeing what you come up with. And I hope somebody has something I can work with. Of course, I won’t be sitting on my hands waiting. Because I realize since you’re not getting paid in American smackeroos, you might not jump in fast. But I figured I’d see who’d like to get involved. And by the way, I’ll mention you and your idea. But you won’t get songwriter credits. Just so you know

OK, that’s all. Thanks, in advance, and…

Stay tuned,

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Posted on April 20, 2020 by TonyApril 28, 2020

Redshift ideas don't explain the origin of our earthly domain

Redshift ideas have consequences

If you’ve never heard of or looked into the redshift of light from distant stars, or the cosmic microwave background radiation (aka CMB), and the amount of helium in the universe, don’t feel bad. Because it’s not exactly typical dinner conversation. But it’s all pretty important…since it all contradicts the big bang theory.

Redshift and the “Lithium Sunset”

I’m a big fan of Sting’s music. You remember him, right? The former lead singer of “The Police.” What?! You’ve never heard of them either? Well, take my word for it. They were a highly successful band from the 80’s. And Sting is still popular, and going strong, these days.

Anyway…

Sting wrote a song called “Lithium Sunset.” And it’s another one of his tunes of angst that uses educational sounding lyrics to convey an emotion. Trouble is…it sounds like more of his personal, confused reality. And that’s a shame. Because, like I said, I enjoy his music. Just not many of his messages. For example, here’s a stanza of lyrics from the song I mentioned…

Take this heartache
Of obsidian darkness
And fold my darkness
Into your yellow light

See what I mean?

Three references to darkness. Two instances of the word itself. And an obsidian added for oomph I suppose. By the way, obsidian is just a piece of volcanic rock that looks like black glass.

“OK, Tony. But what in the world does Sting’s song have to do with the whole redshift thingy?”

Well, only a little bit, actually. As in a little bit of lithium. Literally. According to big bang predictions, there should be loads of lithium in and around our galaxy. But there’s only a little. And lithium is only one of the elemental problems with the big bang theory. There are also serious discrepancies with helium, antimatter, CMB (mentioned above), and more.

But many of the big bang problems go away when scientists look at the complex design in the universe and approach it with a designer perspective. So much falls into place and makes sense. Trouble is…the whole designer idea means God might actually exist. And evolutionists, who have problems with absolutes, believe God absolutely cannot exist. To say He does makes ’em see red.

I hope they experience a redshift before they leave the planet for good.

Explain to me, you redshift rowdies,
The speeding starlight velocities,
And how quasars stick with galaxies
Contradicting big bang theories.

I’m sure, somehow, it makes sense to you.
But only because you want it to.
And your agenda is so see-through.
And most still buy your worldview voodoo.

Your thoughts will have a doppler effect.
Your understanding will be perfect.
If you can admit you’re incorrect,
You and your soul can still resurrect.

Stay tuned,

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Posted on April 19, 2020 by TonyFebruary 5, 2023

What advantage do fear and worry give you?

Spoiler. It’s a trick question. Because typical fear and worry, the kind you see all around you right now, give you absolutely no advantage. In business, creative endeavors, or any other part of life for that matter. But maybe you say you just “can’t help it.” With all the doubt and misinformation floating around, what’s a poor, hardworking, taxpaying citizen to do? Well, for starters, don’t take on that silly sounding identity. But I have an even better idea.

Who’s the best life coach when it comes to fear and worry?

I’ll give you a couple of hints. It ain’t some overgrown, overblown, well-known motivational speaker. And it sure as shootin’ ain’t some so-called “political leader.” Yuck. Makes me nauseous to even put those two words together. And here’s some cold water splashed in the faces of most churchgoers. The best life coach doesn’t stand behind the pulpit in your church. (*Gasp!* This Tony guy’s horrible.)

OK. So those guys aren’t the best. But who is?

“Yeah, Tony, get to the point already.”

Fine. Your best source for understanding, and dealing with your fears and worries is your Creator. In fact, I guarantee, if you’re scared and full of doubt about what’s going on in the world right now, you’re not trusting God. Because He, and His word, are on the total opposite end of the spectrum of fear.

Fact is…when you believe and trust in God, He gives you a spirit of power. And love. And a sound mind. By the way sound, in that context, describes a mind based on reason, sense, or judgment. Full of competence and security. When you feel the opposite of that description, you’ve moved away from, or you’ve forgotten what God says about you.

But don’t worry.

That doesn’t mean you’re doomed. If it did, you and I and everybody else would be doomed. Instead of throwing your hands up in despair or frustration, turn around and ask God for more wisdom. He loves to give it to those who love Him.

Get Wise

Don’t drink the wine of violence
Or eat the bread of hate.
You might just get away with it.
Can you afford to wait?

Don’t push and shove the simple.
Seek knowledge just like gold.
And in so doing you’ll lay up
Your treasures manifold.

A word to the confounded”
Pour light into your eyes.
If you expect more than neglect,
Get wisdom; yeah get wise.

Get wise to the deceiver.
Don’t harken to his lies.
Keep commanding understanding.
Get wisdom; yeah get wise.

Don’t walk, you, with the wicked.
Beware the scornful tongue.
Let never part your loving heart
And live forever young.

Stay tuned,

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

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

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

Get digital Bible stuff from the same company I do.

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Posted on April 18, 2020 by TonyApril 28, 2020

Free money fast while free supplies last

Get your free money fast

And get it “while the gittin’s good.” Because if you’ve got any sense left in your brain, heart, and soul, you know it can’t last. Right? Or can it? Maybe I’m just an aging, yet naive, so-n-so who don’t understand the powers of higher economics. (And I know it’s doesn’t instead of don’t…but I’m waxing colloquial.) If that’s the case, then by all means point me to the line where I can get a lifetime of free money fast. After all, who wants to work when they’re giving away money? Wait…could that be a potential problem? Hmm…

And notice how everybody wants free money fast?

I mean, when was the last time you heard anybody say this? “I sure wish I could get some free money slow.” Yeah, never. And I think it’s because even knuckleheaded public skool grajits (of which I’m one) know in their hearts it’s a limited time offer. Because it just ain’t real. And reality tends to roll back around…well, at least most of the time, whether anybody admits it or not.

I’m sure, by now, you know I’m referencing those benevolent deposits and checks our federal government has been sending out lately. And I’ll bet you can guess how I feel about it. Right?

Yeah, the money should never have been stolen from us in the first place. That’s right. I said “stolen.” Because when a government taxes its people even 10%, it’s tyrannical. And all the rest of those taxes our government burdens working people with fall under the “thou shalt not steal” category.

So, do I recommend not taking the money if and when you get it from the government?

Certainly not! It was yours first. At least if you’re a productive individual who provides goods and services for payment. And the less of our money politicians have, the less they can spend to buy votes and power. So, get yours back. And invest in yourself and a business.

You’re currently still able to create and produce information, products, and services for your fellow man. But don’t think for a moment there aren’t politicians, powers, and principalities looking for ways to take most or all of that away from you.

So build and serve others today
Before it’s all taken away.
The end could be closer than your local grocer,
And you might be left here to pay.

Stay tuned,

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Posted on April 17, 2020 by TonyApril 28, 2020

Challenges people face bring triumph or disgrace

Yeah, challenges people face are real

Who knew? I can’t remember where I read it. But I recently saw where somebody wrote that as a headline. Or subhead, or something like that. Anyway…they probably thought they were saying something profound. But, of course, challenges people face are real. At least…until they’re not.

Yeah, and some challenges people face are fake.

Or they’re blown up in a fake way to make them seem real. But they’re still fake. And you might wonder why anyone would make up a challenge where one didn’t exist before.

It’s because most people don’t have (and don’t want) an eternal connection to reality. In fact, they’re happy (so they think) living out their lives in quiet, or sometimes obnoxiously loud, desperation. But you were designed with a calculating and problem solving brain. You need to be challenged.

Because you need to rise to the challenges.

And even when you face an invisible foe, like this current virus problem, you shouldn’t make things up. Especially to use them as scare tactics to manipulate the masses.

You and I are gonna face viruses, bacteria, and all kinds of germs our entire lives. And we’ve already been dealing with them our entire lives. There’s no getting out of it, short of going to Heaven. But our bodies can do an excellent job of fighting them off. Because we’re designed with an immune system. Keep it strong, and your body will fight strong. But keep it compromised with poor eating and unhealthy lifestyle choices, and your time on earth might not be as long as you’d like.

So, you’re challenge, today, is…are you going to Heaven?

If yes, you can stop reading (or listening to) this and go about your day. If no, you’ve got a decision to make.

Keep going the way you’re going. And decide to live in fear and confusion (or rebellion) every time life throws curveballs. Or get yourself some serious salvation. The choice is yours. And so are the consequences.

Decide that you’ll deal with reality.
Do it with precise punctuality.
There’s a still, small voice pointing out the best choice,
Unless your mind is still too blind to see.

Stay tuned,

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Posted on April 16, 2020 by TonyApril 28, 2020

Rising sun essential and it's also providential

Is the rising sun essential?

As I was doing a little research for my daily writing idea, I looked up how essential sunlight is for good health. Keep in mind, I don’t always use keywords the typical way. Because I’m also looking for poetic, creative solutions and ideas. So, I typed in my keyword choice and came up with a “rising sun essential”suggestion, from Google. And, of course, I had to check out some of the results.

Rising sun essential brings up some essential oil businesses.

What are the odds, right? And I did a quick, cursory look at the websites. And, as I figured, they’re sort of on the new age side of it. But I didn’t check “˜em out. Because I wasn’t looking for essential oils. I wanted to talk about sunlight.

Think about this for a second or two. Sunlight connects with a part of the retina in your eyes. And that connection triggers the release of a mood-lifting hormone called serotonin. Now, if you can read that and still believe evolution can sufficiently explain how we got here, you have a whole lot more blind faith than I ever will.

But, back to the point. You and your body need serotonin in order to stay UP. And, as it “just so happens”, the rising sun can help your body manufacture it.

Sounds pretty darn essential to me.

And I think it’s also immensely important to know how everything in our world, and in the universe, came together better than fine Swiss clockwork. By design. Because there’s far too much information in even a single cell for it to be there accidentally.

Good news is…it weren’t no accident.

The entire universe, and every living thing in it, were designed and wound up by THE Designer. And if you don’t believe that right now, then you can just thank yourself for the morning sunlight.

But I promise you…that kind of thinking leads to eternal serotonin depletion.

The sun rose again, today.
And I was here to see.
The bright light lit up the life
Unfolding just for me.
So I soaked it in, and then
I breathed a breath of hope.
It’s beauty and truth, each day,
That help me more than cope
With these daily trials by fire
Brought on by all our sins.
And that’s why it’s crucial to
Make sure each day begins
In love and in thankfulness
For what’s already done.
Give thanks for the rising sun,
And for the Risen Son.

Stay tuned,

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Posted on April 15, 2020 by TonyApril 28, 2020

Catch The Moon

You can’t actually catch the moon. You might catch it or capture it in a photograph or video. But you might have noticed, in TV shows and other videos…the moon is big. And mighty far away. Oh yeah, it’s also not falling or being tossed. So you can’t catch it. All that being said, I wrote a song called “Catch The Moon”. Here it is…

Catch The Moon

See the ball of light
In the deep blue night.
Shines like a big white whole note
On a musical flight
Floating through space and through time
Like a hot air balloon

Feel the cool night air
Dancing through your hair.
Laugh right out loud and then watch
Stars light up everywhere
Look up with your arms open wide,
And you will Catch The Moon.

Catch The Moon”repeat twice

(Bridge/Chorus…Repeat Chorus)

Music fills the skies
As you harmonize.
Lyrics line up and fall down
And they land in your eyes.
Look up with your arms open wide,
And you will catch the moon.

This song is part of a collection of new songs I’ve been composing for more than just “fun.” So, be sure to check back regularly. Because there’ll be more soon. And, my hope and goal is to keep adding to this list until I’m unable to remember what a keyboard or a computer are. With any luck…or better yet, blessings from above…that’s a long way off.

Stay tuned,

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Heavy metals – no, not those long hair guys

Heavy metals shouldn’t be there, I tell you.

Let’s recap.

And now for a little geography history

Sam Cooke sang about geography, history, and even math.

Then, there’s the geography.

Sometime later, the Weekly Reader was no longer an evolutionary resource in geography class.

And the hate goes on

Hate for God goes on from schmucks whose brains are gone.

And it’s all about tolerance and acceptance. Right?

Today is the end of April 2020

The way it’s gone through the end of April, what do you think May will be like?

Only wisdom can do it.

Take the Personalized Approach

The internet is an ocean of possibility when you use the “personalized approach.”

Research backs me up on this.

Poetry in motion

I’ve always loved that little phrase, poetry in motion.

If you get a chance, click or tap on the link and check out the music video.

Hard work and dedication

“Did he just include musicians in the hard work and dedication group?”

“Yeah right, Tony. And what’s this got to do with musicians?”

“You don’t know what REAL work is, dude!”

Check out my solo logo

If you’ve followed me for a while, you’ve seen my solo logo.

Beware the Back Stabbers

And there a lots of different kinds of back stabbers out there.

And, by the way, that’s evil.

Maybe it’s time to stir it up

But the Stir It Up song isn’t what I’m talking about right now.

Stir up your gift or it’ll stagnate.

I believe you’ll be stirred up.

“There is no God”

If you believe there is no God, I’ll bet I know something else about you.

And I can’t imagine how that provides any comfort.

Hmm…can music change your mood?

If you ask, can music change your mood, you don’t know how moods work.

But I encourage you to choose your attitude even better than you choose your music.

Why do I write rhymes for you?

Yeah, I write lots of rhymes for you because it’s my thang.

The Choice You’re Making Now

Since you’re not doing anything right now, got any ideas for a song?

Yeah, if you’ve ever thought you had some good ideas for a song…

Redshift ideas have consequences

Redshift and the “Lithium Sunset”

See what I mean?

Who’s the best life coach when it comes to fear and worry?

But don’t worry.

Get your free money fast

And notice how everybody wants free money fast?

Yeah, challenges people face are real

Yeah, and some challenges people face are fake.

So, you’re challenge, today, is…are you going to Heaven?

Is the rising sun essential?

Rising sun essential brings up some essential oil businesses.

Sounds pretty darn essential to me.

Catch The Moon

Catch The Moon

Since you’re not doing anything right now,
got any ideas for a song?