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Tony Funderburk

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Tony Funderburk Posted on October 27, 2024 by TonyOctober 29, 2024
American independence with oxidized resplendence

OK, a few years ago I shared a perspective on American independence that I connected with the political environment at the time. In case you hadn’t noticed, we’re in the throes of another political storm. So, I figured this would bear repeating. Here ya go.

First, a lot of people who lived in “the colonies” during the 1700’s noticed England’s increasing oppressive demands. Higher taxes. More production for less profit. Etc. And a significant number of colonists began to divide their views from those of the “mother country.”

Of course, I oversimplified the struggles for American independence. Because I’m not trying to write a history book for you. Just wanna highlight the general idea.

There still were colonists whose loyalties remained unified with England. But obviously (and thankfully) their feelings of continued unity didn’t win the day.

Now, let’s go from American Independence to the middle 1800’s.

Maybe you don’t remember those years. Well, that’s when America was divided over the idea and industry of slavery. So divided, as a matter of fact, that our country was split between “the North” and “the South.” And again, it’s more complicated than this. But “the North” opposed slavery. And “the South” wanted slavery to remain.

Which side would you choose? Because, back then, it would have been ludicrous to say something as inane as “America is an idea, that’s the uniqueness of who we are.” And you might have been tarred and feathered by either or both sides. Because people didn’t fight and die for American because it was “an idea.”

(by the way, some guy named Joe said that recently)

No, Americans from both sides took a stand. And we had a civil war that was anything but civil. More American soldiers died in that war than any foreign war. And why? Because enough people divided themselves from the insidious idea of owning other people. And they opposed it with such passion that many of them fought and died to end it once and for all.

OK, let’s fast forward again. To World War II. And again, I’m not gonna go through this in detail. Just an overview of worldviews. And just in case you’re not aware of who started the mess, it was Adolph Hitler in Germany. And Japan jumped in with their own ideas of world domination.

Germany was pretty solidly unified in its hatred for the Jews. After all, how else could Hitler and his henchmen murder so many Jews unless the people went along? Yeah, it was a serious case of “go along to get along.” But it’s still true, and despicable, how committed to “the Fatherland” most Germans were. But there WERE voices of division.

And thankfully a few like Dietrich Bonhoeffer stood in divided opposition.

If you haven’t read anything about his story, I highly recommend it. Because he showed how refusing to unite with tyrannical political ideologies is a wise choice.

But let’s take one more spin through the years.

In the late 1960’s and early 1970’s America took a drastic turn toward the dark side. A case went before the “supreme court” (hardly a proper name since that court is actually not on Earth). And you might recall it. Roe vs Wade. Also known as Roe v Wade. But whatever you call it, the point is, it “legalized” murder.

And that’s not the worst part. Because the worst part is how it “legalized” the murder of the most innocent Americans. Citizens who never committed a crime. People who never even stole a piece of candy.

And the vast majority of politicians, these days, want us all to stand together in unity and support these murders. Yeah, that includes democrats AND republicans. Both male AND female. Almost all senators, congressmen (and women), governors, and especially an airhead named Kamala, support these murders.

And they want you and me to support them as they support (and regulate) the killing.

But I don’t support them.

And I won’t. And I don’t care how much they redefine words like division and unity. Division is always good when it means you divide from evil ideas. And unity is always bad when it means you stand united with thieves and murderers. I declare my American independence from them all.

I know this isn’t my usual tone.
But I know I don’t stand here all alone.
I’m certain that more of you think this, too.
Don’t be afraid to speak up if you do.

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…

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Posted in choose life, politics, Rhyme and Reason, Tony Funderburk | Tagged american independence, Declaration of Independence, independence is an illusion
Tony Funderburk Posted on October 26, 2024 by TonyOctober 29, 2024
3000 hits club with hardly a flub

Pete Rose died recently. I’m sure you know he was a famous baseball player who committed the cardinal sin of betting on baseball even as he managed the Cincinnati Reds. And if you know that, maybe you also know that Pete was a member of the 3000 hits club.

There are only 33 baseball players in the 3000 hits club.

So, when you think of how baseball players there have been since baseball officially starting keeping stats, that’s not many members. My guess is, it’s more than a little difficult to achieve membership in the 3000 hits club.

Just FYI, Ty Cobb and Pete Rose are also members of the 4000 hits club. And Pete leads all others with over 4200 hits. You could say there’s someone else who’s hit more, but I’m an American, so I only count Americans who played in American games. So there.

Anyway…

I’m not a pro sports fan anymore. I used to follow football. And I’ve been to a few major league baseball games. Beyond that the leagues don’t stay in business because of me, for sure.

But I’m not sharing baseball stats today to impress you with my sports trivia “knowledge.” No, I just realized, as I started this post, that I created my own 3000 hits club yesterday. Yeah, yesterday marked my 3000th post here on TonyFunderburk.com

If you’re a stats kinda person, that equals a post every day for over 8 years. But this little website of mine has been around longer than that. So, naturally I didn’t always write something every day. I only started that in recent years.

And if you’ve been around for a while, Thank YOU.

I appreciate your support more than you know. By the way, if you’ve got a sec, be sure to share my little corner of the world wide web with someone else. Tell them to join the growing body of believers who signed up for the TRUTH Journal. And let ’em know how they’ll get daily, delightful dashes of salt and flashes of light from the power of God’s love.

Well the power of the Word takes an ordinary bird
And it gives him songs to sing and wings to soar.
With the power of the Word, even when your vision’s blurred,
All your dreams will be fulfilled forevermore.

Stay tuned…

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Posted in branding yourself, Christian Articles, Faith Hope and Love, hard work, imagination station, Rhymes, Tony Funderburk | Tagged 3000 hits club, good sport, stats, trivia
Tony Funderburk Posted on October 25, 2024 by TonyOctober 26, 2024
Jingles in advertising really work, it's not surprising

For several years I wrote a lot of short tunes that became jingles in advertising. And I wrote for all sorts of companies. If you lived in Colorado for any time during the past 20 years, and if you listened to radio, chances are you heard me at least once.

Most jingles in advertising tend to have a short life.

But not all of them.

In fact, one of those jingles I produced was for an auto repair shop in Lakewood, Colorado. And they used the catchy little tune for over 20 years.

I remember calling the shop to talk to someone about an issue I had with my Jeep. The receptionist put me on hold while she paged a service manager. And instantly I heard my own voice singing the jingle I wrote for them 10 years before that.

Then, over 10 more years passed. And by that time their repair shop had been handed down from one generation to the next generation of the same family. Their family history, in the auto repair and supply business, spanned over a hundred years. And that’s certainly not the norm these days.

But with a new generation you expect change. Right? Of course. Because each generation has to deal with a whole new generation of cars, too. So, it’s only natural the younger generation would probably see things a little differently from the previous generations. But even the new generation used the jingle I wrote for them in their on-hold music.

Wow, that’s a lot of generational talk.

Recently I discovered the owners finally sold their business to a large tire brand. So, I’m pretty sure you won’t hear me, anymore, if you call and get put on hold. But it was a great run. And you can still hear the catchy tune in one of the videos on their old Pickering’s Automotive YouTube channel.

It was an honor to be a part of their quality business for so long. Because Randy Pickering, the owner I worked with, was one of those guys who understood the value of jingles in advertising.

And that’s part of the reason why I wrote:

For great service and repair,
You need someone to care.
Look no more. Pick Pickering.

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…

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Posted in branding yourself, music for business, music news, singer songwriter, Tony Funderburk, video marketing, Words and Music | Tagged jingles, jingles in advertising, music for business
Tony Funderburk Posted on October 24, 2024 by TonyOctober 26, 2024
Moderation is key when taken moderately

For some reason I’ve seen several articles and memes, recently, with the same theme. Moderation is key. They seem to believe it’s the key to happiness.

But I say moderation is key if you take it moderately.

I know. Clever, Tony, but what does that mean for cryin’ out loud?

Well, stop cryin’ out loud and I’ll explain.

I don’t believe that moderation is key to every avenue of life. It isn’t universally axiomatic (I love that silver dollar word). What’s that you say? Provide examples? OK, here ya go.

You shouldn’t want murder, or stealing, or false accusations in moderation.

Sure, drinking in moderation is a good idea. Or shopping in moderation, certainly. But true, inalienable rights come from the Creator…otherwise they’re just policies…subject to subjectivism and/or the whims of a so-called “organic” government document.

Every person has the right to life, liberty (self-protection), and the pursuit of happiness. We can nullify our rights by violating the rights of others. But no person has the right to take those rights from an innocent person…no matter how big or small.

And here’s something that can help more than focusing on the “moderation is key” mantra. Fill yourself to overflowing with whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, and whatever things are just. Immerse yourself in whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report and have virtue and are praiseworthy.

Yeah, meditate on those things. And then get wisdom and…

Understanding

It isn’t always easy.
It isn’t always hard.
The choice is yours to play
The winning or losing card.
It isn’t always visible.
It isn’t always hidden.
There is a light so beautiful,
You’ll think that it’s forbidden.

Oh, I believe in understanding
In understanding each other.
Sooner or later we’ll find the key,
The key to the heart of our brother.

It isn’t always peaceful.
It isn’t always loud.
Sometimes you find yourself alone.
Sometimes you’re in a crowd.
It isn’t always happy.
It isn’t always sad,
And with a little understanding…
It isn’t always bad.

© 1978

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…

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Posted in Faith Hope and Love, Rhymes, Thankful Thursday, Tony Funderburk | Tagged meditate on these things, moderation is key, pure place
Tony Funderburk Posted on October 23, 2024 by TonyOctober 26, 2024
One out of three and I'm glad it's not me

A Harvard Health Publishing report from back in 2011 said “one out of three senior citizens suffers at least one fall during the course of a year.”

I know you’re too young to be the one out of three.

But someone you know might be that particular one out of three. So, if you care about their well-being, I suggest you keep reading to see what you can do to help.

That same Harvard report included a little bit of interesting and encouraging information about music and movement. Fortunately I don’t have to be concerned with this for at least another few seconds. But I’m a concerned citizen, so that makes me interested.

Evidently the connection between music and movement isn’t all in your head.

I’ve already shared information about how music, and even the vibrations from it, can do amazing things. Especially for your mental well-being. But better mental and emotional health aren’t the only benefits of more music in your life. It might also keep you from falling.

According to the Harvard report, there was a study of “134 men and women 65 and older who were at risk of falling.” And keep in mind, these were people who didn’t have any major issues with walking. Half the volunteers were taught how to walk and move to the rhythm of songs. And the other half went through their regular routines.

After only six months the music movers could move around better and had better balance than the people who hadn’t changed their routines. And apparently the music group fell 54% fewer times.

So, the tough truth is that there were still some falling.

But a lot less than the more sedentary group. And a side benefit of music and movement was that it apparently improved the mobility of people dealing with Parkinson’s disease.

I’m a lifelong musician. So I love to learn about the hidden (and potential) benefits to listening to, playing, and moving around to music. But it’s sad how the researchers publish studies and reports that repeatedly say things like:

  • “We’re not sure why this is happening?”
  • “Science is only scratching the surface on how this could occur.”
  • “Did our evolutionary ancestors know about dancing and health?”

Music is like the rest of human existence. It’s part of an amazingly complex design from an infinitely brilliant Designer. And If that’s not true, then I’m just a big fool who might be that one out of three who’s gonna fall down any minute.

But if it IS true (and it is)…

I’ll be dancing and singing forever
In the place where all music began.
And even with a crown, I’m never falling down.
Trusting God is in my masterplan.

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…

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Posted in music and health, Rhymes, Tony Funderburk | Tagged music and health, one out of three
Tony Funderburk Posted on October 22, 2024 by TonyNovember 19, 2024
Dead duck perspective and what's more effective

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Your government’s budget (and every other part) is NOT operating on or in a just and wise system. And if you ran your household like politicians run this country, you’d be a dead duck already.

Dead duck. That’s kind of a weird thing to say when you think about it.

I read, somewhere, that Andrew Jackson first used the expression, dead duck, in the 1840’s to describe a political opponent. And I don’t know if that’s true. But, based on other things I’ve read about that former president, it sounds plausible.

Anyway…

Yeah, your household couldn’t, and wouldn’t survive, the kind of deficits your country has. Here’s something I wrote, years ago, about how reasonable taxation could help you be more creative.

~ If we took enough from every taxpayer (say about 5%) and spent it on only those things that benefit the country, we’d have beautiful bridges, smooth roads, and strong defense against all enemies. And lots more time for creative endeavors and innovations. ~

Can you imagine how much nicer (and budget friendly) it would be to drive on smooth roads all the time? And how much safer you’d be if all our bridges were maintained they way they should be? Not to mention (be here I go mentioning) how much safer we’d all be if our enemies knew they’d be a dead duck to try to stand up to our strength.

But THAT good ol’ USA went away.

A long time ago. It didn’t just happen in the last four years. Sure, the last four years have been some of the most disastrous in American history. But the system that got us here started over 100 years ago.

Years ago I described what we now have like this:

~ Instead we have a tax system that only the trained professionals and lawyers can understand. And it makes for “class” envy, fraud, and political skimming. Not to mention that our tax system has become a Robin Hood money laundering machine. Take from those who work hard and give to those who don’t or can’t or won’t. You can call it whatever you want. But if private citizens did that, it would be called stealing. Just because the government has made laws and given the tax system involved and caring (yeah, right) names doesn’t change the fact that it’s stealing. ~

It’s ironic how many “conservatives” and “republicans” declare how they’ll fight to be sure America never becomes a socialist nation. Ironic because we’ve been a socialist nation for a long time. And those same Americans say how much they despise the people who say “you’ll own nothing and like it.” But that’s where we ARE. You and I effectively own nothing.

And, from what I can see, most people seem to like it.

For the record, I hate it.

Sometimes this world brings my bad side out.
I get so mad I could scream.
I wonder why can’t we all be friends;
Live and let live and share the dream.
So much depending on tomorrow.”
Heaven only knows where tomorrow goes.
Why must we beg and steal and borrow?
It’s a temporary fix; an empty bag of tricks. © 1989

(from my song, Never Neverland)

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…

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Posted in current events, Faith Hope and Love, The TRUTH Journal, Tony Funderburk, Words and Music | Tagged dead duck, debt relief, The Power of God's Love Podcast, worst enemy
Tony Funderburk Posted on October 21, 2024 by TonyOctober 21, 2024
Part of the plan? Stop sayin' that, man.

Love when you can, cry when you have to.
Be who you must, that’s a part of the plan.
Await your arrival with simple survival.
And one day we’ll all understand.
One day we’ll all understand.

Those are lyrics from Dan Fogelberg’s song, Part of the Plan.

I included several of Dan’s songs in my regular repertoire when I made my living as a musician. And he wrote some mighty fine music. So, those songs were almost always audience favorites.

And that chorus pops into my head just about every time someone talks about how everything is part of God’s plan. To quote popular (but silly) slang, that’s “so cringe.”

As you think about that, consider this. A headline that reads, Rejoice: Rapture Almost Here

Of course, the rapture is eventually part of the plan for “whoever believes” in Jesus. So, since it’s almost here, do you have your affairs in order? If so, that means you sold all your belongings, gave to the poor, and gathered together your women, children, and families. And you’re ready to go.

Now, are you looking up in anticipation? If not, you should be. Especially if you believe everything is part of God’s plan. Because the King James version of the Bible is mighty clear about it. I shared this information about 8 years ago. And it’s gotta be even more true now.

Here’s what I said then:

~ Check out this passage in Paul’s 1st letter to the Corinthians. In it he mentions the current Republican candidate for U.S. president by name. Paul says “at the last Trump” Christians will be caught up in the air in the twinkling of an eye. I can’t imagine there being another Trump of any significance in our history, so “the Donald” must surely be the last. I mean, c’mon, this is so blatantly obvious. Isn’t it? Can’t we all simply read between the lines and acknowledge what we’re being told? ~

Well, in case you hadn’t noticed, since Trump was denied his second term, he’s running again. And presidents don’t serve more than two terms. So, this has GOT to be the last Trump scenario. Right?

OK, I’m sure you caught my tongue-in-cheek editorial or Biblical exposition.

But I’m not just kidding around. Because too many Christians don’t seem to realize the potentially irreparable damage they do when they attribute everything to “God’s plan.”

Yes, the vast majority of what goes on in this world is part of the plan by the “ruler of this world.” But that ruler is NOT (currently) God. Jesus will be the ruler of this world. But He’s not right now. And THAT’S (to quote a Kim Carnes song) where the trouble lies.

So, whether we’re about to hear the “last Trump” or not, make it part of your plan to be ready.

My Dream

Thought I woke up one dark night
With yellow wings prepared for flight.
A sword of silver, polished steel
To keep me ready, keep me real.
I yelled to see who’d come with me
And celebrate sweet victory.
But no one heard my rising call.
|Guess I was not awake at all.
I’m losing the balance on this beam.
Will no one believe in my dream?

© 8/17/2000

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…

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Posted in current events, I Corinthians, John, Rhymes, Tony Funderburk, Words and Music | Tagged God's plan, last trump, part of the plan
Tony Funderburk Posted on October 20, 2024 by TonyOctober 20, 2024
Our world is a mess but it'll end with a yes

I doesn’t matter what I wish. What matters is what’s actually doable, possible, and true. And that’s not to say I’ll never wish for better things for our world. Because I’m sure I will. In fact, I have. Many times.

But I don’t wish for stuff with any kind of it-might-actually-come-true-if-I-wish-hard-enough sort of silliness. More of a “wouldn’t-it-be-great-if” kind of attitude. And when I “wish” for better things, I remember how there WILL BE better things. Eventually.

And I know that because I’ve read the bestselling book of all time. Wow! Talk about hero-saves-the-day ending. Marvel and DC only wish they could tell such an amazing story. But even their best special effects are pale shadows compared to the struggle between good and evil found in the Bible.

So, when I think about what a mess our world is in, I make sure to remember even Earth gets a makeover one day. Because that’s how much God loves us. So, I keep that in mind as I share…

What I Wish

There are people of the past
And people of today…
They’re standing in lines,
And they’re passing away.
But let’s not talk about that.
Let’s go and find some fun,
Burn our candles at both ends,
Let our wild sides run.

We don’t wanna hear it.
We don’t wanna know why.
‘Cause then maybe we’ll feel near it,
And we’ll break down and cry.

Oh, I wish our world was better.
I wish our world was fair.
I wish we’d get together
And end the grief out there.
I wish our world was perfect.
And I wish our world was sane.
I wish there was no hatred
Or lust for earthly gain.
That’s what I wish.

There are innocent children
Who were living on dreams.
Now their dreams have exploded
Blown apart at the seams.
And they look to their mothers
And their fathers for help.
But their parents won’t help them
‘Cause they can’t help themselves.

We don’t want to hear it.
We don’t want to know where.
Just as long as it’s not us,
Who are we to care?

Oh, I wish our world was better.
I wish our world was fair.
I wish we’d get together
And end the grief out there.
I wish our world was perfect.
And I wish our world was sane.
I wish there was no hatred
Or lust for earthly gain…
That’s what I wish.

© 1988

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…

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Posted in Count your blessings, Faith Hope and Love, Rhymes, Tony Funderburk | Tagged better world, change the world, our world
Tony Funderburk Posted on October 19, 2024 by TonyOctober 19, 2024
Listening to music when this old world makes you sick

A huge amount of people (maybe the majority), on social media, aren’t listening to music. Well, maybe that’s not the best place for research. Even though social media IS the source of all truth. But here’s why I mentioned it.

Because listening to music is supposed to help your cognitive function.

Could that possibly be true? Uh, yeah. Or else I wouldn’t’ve even brought it up. But, as I said, that might lead you to deduce (if deducing is your thang) that people on social media don’t listen to music.

Because the function, there, mostly stops at the cog. Forget the nitive part.

Anyway…

What is cognitive function? Basically it’s your brain’s capacity for tasks like learning, thinking, reasoning, remembering, and problem solving. And some researchers at the University of California, Irvine, studied what they call the “Mozart Effect” on a person’s brain.

Because they discovered that I have amazing mathematical abilities.

Well, they observed how many musicians have “unusual mathematical abilities.” So, same difference.

Those researchers did a test on three groups of empty-headed people. Some might call them college students. First, they tested their IQ. And they did a comparison. One group had spent 10 minutes in silence before the test. Another spent that time listening to a relaxation tape. And the third group listened to a Mozart piano sonata.

Wanna guess how that went?

You don’t have to. I’ll tell you. The Mozart listeners were the winners. And their scores consistently went up when compared to the others. Holy Amadeus, Batman! That’s pretty cool. And they did other comparisons. But each time Mozart’s music won.

So, the researchers theorize that listening to music “helps organize the firing of nerve cells in the right half of the cerebral cortex.”

I happen to believe that listening to more complex music gives your brain a much better workout. And that’s probably why I have, oops, I mean, so many musicians have those “unusual mathematical abilities.” You could say it all adds up. But you won’t have to. Because I just did.

Now, just to be clear, this ain’t a brain repair thing.

In other words, you can’t just listen to Mozart and become brilliant. The research also showed the effect might be somewhat temporary. But you certainly won’t be stupider. And the benefits of exercise are always temporary. That’s why you gotta keep exercising. Right?

So, if you’re looking for a way to build up your brain muscles, consider a little Mozart muscle music. Or even better, try some music from my favorite composer.

And maybe I’ll see you at the musical gym sometime.

Workin’ out my brain as I sing a song’s refrain
Makes me smarter or at least that’s how it seems.
So, I’ll just sing my tunes mornings, evenings, afternoons,
And I’ll solve some math equations in my dreams.

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…

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Posted in healthy habits, music and health, Rhymes, sound healing, Tony Funderburk | Tagged listening to music, music and health, sound healing
Tony Funderburk Posted on October 18, 2024 by TonyOctober 22, 2024
Safe haven is found when your feet leave the ground

There’s no safe haven on Earth.

”Uh, gee Wally. Why you gotta be such a Donnie Downer?”

Look. I’m just sayin’.

This planet ain’t no safe haven.

Sure, there ARE safer spots than others when it comes to crimes like murder and stealing. But planet Earth is wicked. And I know that’s an old-fashioned word. But it fits better than just about any other word. In fact, there was only one time in history when it was worser (which is even worse than worse). And that’s when God was sorry He even made human beings. So, He broke the planet and killed all but 8 people. Yikes! Kinda harsh, right?

And that was really for the sake of only ONE of those people.

And that was because God is the most brilliant “big picture” thinker.

Since He has that kind of perspective, it’s vitally important to have a better understanding of that big picture. And I’m sure you know this.

But for someone who just happened to find my little corner of the internet as they looked for answers, here’s how it goes. You WILL exist forever somewhere. One of two places. You can live in the fullness of life with your Creator in paradise. Or you can exist totally separate from Him, forever.

Option 1, God’s Kingdom. The only safe haven. Filled with life and love.

Option 2, your “kingdom.” Consisting of one miserable soul.

But you DO get to choose. Because God loves you so much He won’t even force you into paradise if you don’t wanna go there. My recommendation is: Choose Option 2.

Safe And Sound

Down on our luck but not out of the game
We both go the distance and cover some ground.
And still our love is safe and sound.
We learned to be part of each other’s dreams.
Some time was lost but look what we found,
Knowing our love is safe and sound.

We laugh like there’s no tomorrow.
We’re touched by the hand of God.
So what if there’s no new sunrise.
So what if the world won’t spin around.
We’re safe and sound.

Miles have gone by; we dared to go see
The wide open space and seldom we frowned.
Look how our love is safe and sound.
Deep in our hearts and inside our minds.
We capture the words and they keep us bound,
Saying our love is safe and sound.

We laugh like there’s no tomorrow.
We’re touched by the hand of God.
So what if there’s no new sunrise.
So what if the world won’t spin around.
We’re safe and sound.

So many give up when one knee is down.
But we’re down on both and now we’re safe and sound.

© 1993 Tony

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…

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Posted in Tony Funderburk, Words and Music | Tagged safe and loved, safe and secure, safe and sound, safe haven
Tony Funderburk Posted on October 17, 2024 by TonyOctober 17, 2024
6 days of giving made a land of the living

A lot of people, especially Christians, feel that Christmas is a time for giving. And I’m not here to tell you anything different. But if giving is the (or even a) measure of giving, then think about what an amazing Christmas those first 6 days of creation were.

Because during those very first six days God gave us the universe.

Not to mention, but I’m gonna, everything you and I need to live. And to live abundantly.

As you know, all the abundance of life there is, on our beautiful blue planet, was created during those 6 twenty-four hour days. And that’s not impossible for God. Because, well, He’s God.

Just FYI, if you have kids, or you know someone who does, I wrote and illustrated a rhyming book all about the first six days of creation. And, coincidentally, it’s called “The Very First 6 Days.”

I know. Brilliant, out-of-the-blue title.

Anyway…

Here’s a short clip from the book. It’s from the very first day:

Before there were created things, and darkness filled the air,
No world or human beings were existing anywhere.
Then God created earth and sea and all the heavens too.
There was no sun, no moon, no stars, and only God shone through.

He looked down at the waters and the dark face of the deep.
The earth was still and quiet just as we are when we sleep.
He said, “Let there be light” the way a perfect, true God could,
And then He saw the brand new light and knew that it was good.

Then God divided light and dark, and darkness He called Night.
The light would be called Day, and it was pleasing in His sight.
That evening and that morning wouldn’t be the total sum.
No, that was just the very first day. Five were yet to come.

OK, I suppose that’s enough shameless self-promotion for one day. So, share this info with everyone you know so I can keep eating for another week. You don’t wanna see me waste away, do you? Well, you can make sure that doesn’t happen by getting my book, or a t-shirt or even by sending me cookies.  🙂

You don’t even have to visit my website to stay connected. I’ll send you daily, delightful dashes of salt and flashes of light from the power of God’s love when you sign up for the TRUTH Journal.

Stay tuned…

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Posted in Bible study, Christian books for kids, creation science, ebooks for kids, Tony Funderburk | Tagged 6 days, creation week, The Very First 6 Days
Tony Funderburk Posted on October 16, 2024 by TonyOctober 17, 2024
Imagine if you will that you took a silly pill

Imagine, if you will, you’ve just spent the last 8 years studying to become a scientist. You attended a college and grad school with enviable credentials. And you passed all your courses with very high marks. You received your diploma, your degrees, and all of your letters of qualification. Now, you can go do what scientists do.

And here’s something else to imagine, if you will.

Much of what you learned for your chosen field of expertise was based on flawed or even fabricated information.

Gasp! Perish the thought. Right?

Easy now. Remember, I said “imagine if you will.” So stick with me here.

After you leave your institutions of higher learning, you come across a bunch of “new” information. And it sounds extremely credible. But it completely contradicts most of what you learned in school. And get this. The new information doesn’t show you a single gap in theories of origin. It shows a bunch of missing links.

Now.

What would you do if you all that imaginary stuff happened to you?

Well, you could do like a lot of so-called “scientists” and just say “no” to the idea of new information? But that doesn’t sound like the response of an honest scientist. After all, isn’t a scientist suppose to seek the truth found in science? And follow through where it leads?

And that includes when you discover missing links, also known as “fossil gaps.”

Yeah, there are so many missing links it wouldn’t be much of a stretch to call them missing chains. And even when scientists study the best preserved fossils, found in amber, they discover there are no transitional fossils found anywhere. There are missing links between invertebrates and vertebrates. But that ain’t all, folks.

Because there are also missing links between fish and amphibians, between reptiles and mammals, between reptiles and birds, and between primates and other mammals.

There’s a lot of talk, goin’ around, about red-pilled or blue-pilled people.

But there are plenty of people on both sides who are silly-pilled. Because they believe fairy tales.

So, imagine this if you will…

If your chain is missing links
And your cup is missing drinks,
Then I have to say methinks there is a snag…
‘Cause we need all of the parts
Before drawing up the charts,
Or we’ll know it in our hearts, it’s just a gag.

You don’t even have to visit my website to stay connected. I’ll send you daily, delightful dashes of salt and flashes of light from the power of God’s love when you sign up for the TRUTH Journal.

Stay tuned…

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Posted in evolution fairy tale, Rhymes, Tony Funderburk | Tagged evolution fairy tale, imagine if you will, just imagine
Tony Funderburk Posted on October 15, 2024 by TonyOctober 15, 2024
Got a secret about what their rhetoric leaves out

Miss El and I are certainly a couple of cornballs. Because we truly enjoy watching TV shows that started even before we were born. And that’s a long time ago. One of the shows we’ve been watching, on YouTube recently, is I’ve Got A secret.

I’ve Got A Secret is a gameshow where a panel has to guess the secret.

The host, Garry Moore, brings out a guest who whispers his secret to Garry. Then, Garry gives the celebrity panel a hint. And they get to ask the guest questions to gain information to help them guess. And oftentimes the questions are hilarious because of how they don’t fit the secret.

For a few episodes the word “indigenous” became a standing joke, with celebrity panelist Bill Cullen. Because the word popped up during the questioning of a particular guest. Then, Mr. Cullen would use it in a funny way at other times.

And, of course, I shared all that with you because yesterday was Columbus Day here in America. Oops! I mean indigenous peoples day. Nope. I actually meant Columbus Day. But there are some knuckleheads who think indigenous peoples day is more appropriate. I’ve got a secret to share about those knuckleheads. They’re wrong.

The most common definition of indigenous, before “political correctness” took the stage, was something like this: originating or occurring naturally in a particular place; native. Example: Coriander is indigenous to southern Europe

I’ll let you in on another little secret that’s not so secret. I originated, naturally, right here in America. Right here on the North American continent. And a bunch of generations of my family did, too. So, we are so-called “indigenous people” to America. We occurred here naturally.

And I guess that means yesterday was a celebration of me.

And everyone else who, like me, occurred naturally (aka: was born) here in America. Three cheers for us. Now, let’s get back to us.

Yeah, if only it were that simple. But instead, politicians and distraction activists have too much time on their hands. And why let people live and let live when you can stir the racist pot and keep everybody fired up against each other?

I think they’ve got a secret contempt for righteousness. But that’s no surprise. That’s been the status quo for human beings almost as long as there have been human beings.

How many laws have to be passed
Before we’re obscured in the shadows they cast?
And how many plans must we invent
Before we can step beyond mere intent?

(from my song “Say Yeah”)

Now, maybe you don’t know me well enough to buy something from me, yet. Ok, let’s change that. Get to know more about me and my worldview. Join the growing body of believers who signed up for the TRUTH Journal. And receive daily, delightful flashes of light from the power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

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Posted in current events, Rhyme and Reason, right and wrong, Tony Funderburk | Tagged classic tv, divide and conquer, game show, got a secret
Tony Funderburk Posted on October 14, 2024 by TonyOctober 14, 2024
Ocean waves and fear-filled slaves

Ocean waves and temperatures and levels are the key to your survival. Yeah, if they change, you might be doomed. Doomed I tell you!!

And you thought ocean waves were just for surfing.

You silly ninny. Have you ignored all the symptoms and signs altogether? If so, you deserve whatever mother nature throws at you from the sea? Think you have nothing to worry about? Well, I’m gonna share some statements from an article where “scientists” share “actual” data. And I’ll add a little commentary to keep it real.

“A shutdown of that ocean current could dramatically alter phenomena as varied as global weather patterns and crop yields.”

The key word in that dramatic sentence is “could.” Here’s another example:

“Messing with complex systems is chilling precisely because there are so many levers. If the temperature of the sea surface changes, precipitation over the Amazon might too, contributing to its deforestation, which in turn has been linked to snowfall on the Tibetan plateau.”

The key words in that long (winded) assertion are “so many levers” and “if” and “contributing.”

Here’s another example that really plays on fear:

“We may not even realize when we start passing points of no return. Or if we already have.”

So, if we don’t even realize if or when we pass points of no return, how can we ever really know where they are? Could they be constantly moved around by the ocean waves? Who knows?

And here’s the final attempt to scare you into submission to the mother nature’s capricious whims.

“It’s kind of like stepping into a minefield. We don’t want to find out where these things are by triggering them.”

All that kind of talk reminds me of a song I wrote back in 1989. It talked about opinions. The song is called “Everybody’s Got One.”

And here’s a section of the song that addresses the why of all this:

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.

OK, here’s what I recommend to prepare for the environmental apocalypse. Go get yourself some survival gear. Ebay’s a great source. I’ve even got a link to help you save 20% off your choices.

https://ebay.us/32984Q

Now, maybe you don’t know me well enough to buy something from me, yet. Ok, let’s change that. Get to know more about me and my worldview. Join the growing body of believers who signed up for the TRUTH Journal. And receive daily, delightful flashes of light from the power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

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Posted in climate change, current events, environmental health, Tony Funderburk, Words and Music | Tagged doom and gloom, environmental conditions, fear not, ocean waves
Tony Funderburk Posted on October 13, 2024 by TonyNovember 18, 2024
Ingredient checker is such a home wrecker

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You might believe what I’m about to share with you from an American food ingredient checker. You might, but I think most Americans won’t believe it.

Here’s some data the ingredient checker discovered.

~ These ingredients are banned in Europe. But legal in the US. Really makes you think twice when it says “FDA approved.” 

POTASSIUM BROMATE

* Can irritate nose, throat and lungs

* Shown to cause thyroid and kidney cancers in animals

TITANIUM DIOXIDE

* Enhances products white color and opacity

* The IARC has listed it as a group 2b Carcinogen

BROMINATED VEGETABLE OIL

‘ * Contains Bromine, which irritates the skin & mucous membranes

* Long term, it can cause neurological symptoms

AZODICARBONAMIDE

* Used as a whitening agent in cereal flour and bread dough

* When broken down, it creates two compounds believed to be carcinogenic

PROPYLPARABEN

* Can affect fertility in mice

* Also can affect or alter the endocrine system 

RED 40, YELLOW 6 & YELLOWS DYES

* European authorities have not banned them. But they require a warning that dyes can affect attention in children.

* May contain with several carcinogens

ANTIBIOTICS IN ANIMALS

* Overuse of antibiotics can contribute to deadly drug resistant bacteria that can be passed onto humans 

RBST

* A hormone injected into cows to increase milk production has tenuous links to breast cancer cells in humans  ~

Ms. El and I are ingredient checkers too.

No, we’re not scientists. And we don’t play researchers on some YouTube channel. But we read ingredients on just about everything we bring into our home. I’m not sure we hit the 100% mark all the time. But we do our best to be sure our food doesn’t contain food enhancers with laboratory sounding names.

‘ Salt, pepper, garlic, and butter.

Those are just about the only enhancers good food ever needs. And food that contains inflammatory ingredients, like the ones listed before, ain’t good for you. Plus, my guess is, most of those ingredients aren’t accidentally bad for you. But what do I know. I’m just a guy who’d rather eat the way my Great-Grandpappy, who lived into his nineties, ate.

You can eat whichever way your little ol’ heart prefers.

After all, we still have a right or two left, here in the land of the fees and home of the slaves.

In the land of the fees,
On the home of the slave,
Where the Savior still sees
And still says to be brave;
‘Cause the time will still come,
And it just might be soon,
When it all ends for some,
The astute and immune,
Who believe in the Truth
That still strengthens and frees,
And will free us, like Ruth,
From this land of the fees.  © 2022

I heard someone say, “Hey Tony, I don’t know you well enough to buy something from you.”

Ok, let’s change that. Get to know more about me and my worldview. Join the growing body of believers who signed up for the TRUTH Journal. And receive daily dashes of salt and flashes of light from the power of God’s love. Be a careful ingredient checker. You can unsubscribe any time.

And you can always break out your credit card for my stuff later on.

Stay tuned…

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Posted in healthy habits, Rhymes, The TRUTH Journal, Tony Funderburk | Tagged food additives, healthy habits, ingredient checker, the ingredients, The Power of God's Love Podcast
Tony Funderburk Posted on October 12, 2024 by TonyOctober 12, 2024
Obese Americans everywhere seem like they just don't care

There are obese Americans everywhere. All around in just about every situation. Miss El and I have noticed this epidemic especially in the heart of the heartland. And it’s an avoidable travesty.

But it appears that obese Americans everywhere just don’t care.

Everywhere we went, today, obese people waddled in and out of businesses, homes, and restaurants (of course). They walked SO slowly. And many of them looked like even the slow walking was painful. And my guess is that it was.

We had to make a stop at a Walmart, one of my least favorite places to go, and we noticed something else about those obese people.

They ALL filled their shopping carts with the poisonous foods in colorful packaging you can find on basically every aisle of the grocery section. Most of the time their movements looked automatic. Almost robotic. As if they made the exact same movements hundreds of times over. And my guess is that they did.

Miss El and I felt sorry for them on one hand. And, on the other, we wondered why, with so much information available, on the damaging ingredients in most foods, that most people still eat it. Why do so many people keep pushing that junk into their blood?

And why don’t they hate their pain enough to stop?

We keep seeing shared pictures, from back in the 70’s, where most Americans were still slender. In fact, it was such a slender country that fat people didn’t wanna show up at the beach. Because they’d stand out. And they knew the slender masses would point and even snicker.

But there’s one thing about stigma like that. It can motivate. Back then the fat people (who would be considered somewhat overweight these days) would at least try to exercise and eat better.

And back then there were still some fairly decent options in the grocery stores. You didn’t find sugar in literally everything.

But who cares?

It’s none of my business what others want to eat. Right? Yeah, that’s true. But then again, I’m supposed to love my neighbor as myself. And I certainly don’t want ME to have to get hips and knees replaced because I’m too fat. So, shouldn’t I try to help my neighbor avoid that if possible?

Yeah, shouldn’t I tell obese Americans that their sugar-filled diets are slowly killing them? And shouldn’t I encourage them to stop their robotic behavior? Because that behavior keeps them looking down.

And then, they keep waddling through life.

And their compromised abilities to even tie their own shoes endangers them and those they love.

So, I’ll just finish with this thought. If you’re a little overweight, start now while it’s still fairly easy to avoid the fat trap. If you’re already fat, get out of your rut and start walking. And if you’re one of the obese Americans (or you know one) who thinks it’s too late, pray.

Ask the one true, living, loving and glorious Creator of the universe to help you change. And ask Him to help you start right now. Right this minute. If you believe in the power of prayer, pray now.

OK, I’m gonna go, right now (seriously) on a two-mile walk with Miss El. And it will be awesome.

Start where you are. Even if it’s only 100 steps around the living room. Go. For. It. Right. Now. And you don’t even have to thank me for this motivational message.

Don’t give any thing all you’ve got.
Look for wisdom no matter what.
Every thing can take you away
From what matters most day to day.
Please remember you will go on
Even after your body’s gone.
Where you go will depend on you.
Here’s what I suggest that you do:
Don’t let any thing steal your soul.
Ask for God to help you control
Your desires for things and not Him.
He can fill your heart to the brim.

© 2020 Tony Funderburk

Now, maybe you don’t know me well enough to buy something from me, yet. Ok, let’s change that. Get to know more about me and my worldview. Join the growing body of believers who signed up for the TRUTH Journal. And receive daily, delightful flashes of light from the power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

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Posted in current events, healthy habits, Rhymes, Tony Funderburk | Tagged exercise, fat people, obese Americans, walk more
Tony Funderburk Posted on October 11, 2024 by TonyOctober 11, 2024
So much hype but not in this stereotype

Have you heard any of those marketers who talk about working on your laptop on a beach? Of course, that’s just so much hype and silliness.

I’m not saying it can’t be done. But most hard-working entrepreneurs don’t live that life.

So why does so much hype, like that, get spread all over the internet?

Because it sounds so cool. Duh!

Except, when you get right down to it, taking your laptop onto a beach is a wacky thing to do. Because there’s something on a beach that high-tech gadgets, like laptops, don’t take kindly to.

Sand.

But I remember, back in the day, when it wasn’t so much hype for me to be able to live a life like that.  When time at the beach, or by a pool, or on the ski slopes was totally doable.

It was during the time of my life when I was a full-time traveling musician. And there were plenty of times I found myself on a beach during the day, playing music at night, and thinking up the next songs to write.

I didn’t reach the stratosphere of “fame and fortune.” But it sure felt like it sometimes. I’d pinch myself and say “Just think, Tony, they’re paying you to sing and play music!” And I don’t mean once in a while. No, when I say full time, I mean full time. Five to seven days a week. And multiples on the weekends. Did I mention, regular paychecks to sing and play music?

Speaking of writing songs during those days, I wrote and recorded one in a little beach hotel near Padre Island, Texas.

And here’s how that story goes.

I used to carry around an image of the woman I wanted to be with, for good, in my head. And it became so vivid I started to “see it” musically. So, I set up my motel room studio with my 4-track, my Yamaha keyboard, drum machine, and percussion machine, and my headphones.

It was a rainy, South Texas day, so being indoors all day was just the ticket to getting the song recorded with all the parts I wanted in it. If you ever recorded on tape, with only 4 tracks to work with, you’ll know what I mean when I say there was a lot of dubbing and ping-ponging. But, by the end of that day, just as it was getting dark, I had the song out of my head and on tape for posterity. Here are the lyrics. If you want to hear it, you’ll have to tune in to the The Power of God’s Love Podcast. Here are the lyrics:

Drawn to You

Maybe it’s your eyes.  I don’t know.
It could be your walk.  I’m not sure.
But you have a way of distracting my thoughts.
Would you be my drug? Would you be my cure.

Maybe it’s just me making it up
Maybe I’m wrong to even tell you.
But you didn’t lift a finger, and now I’m wrapped around it.
What else can I say?  What more can I do?

I’m drawn to You
Like a June-bug to the light.
I’m drawn to You
Like a boxer to the fight.
I’m drawn to You
Like a sweet tooth and ice cream,
And it may all sound extreme,
But I’m drawn to You.

Maybe I’ll wake up…maybe soon
And find I made it up…Who can say?
“˜Til then I’ll live it out…’til then I’ll follow through
And see if maybe you might feel the same way.

Chorus

Heaven, help me, won’t you take me to my heart’s desire?
Nothing could mean more than having her to share my fire!
Take me higher…draw me near.

Chorus…instrumental…repeat chorus to end

© 1986 Tony Funderburk

If you’ve only known me since my mostly Christian music days, you might think I changed the words to one of my songs on the Amen collection. But it’s actually the other way around. And now you know some of the rest of that story without so much as even a little hype.

OK, maybe you still don’t know me well enough to buy something from me, yet. Well, then, let’s change that. Get to know more about me and my worldview when you join the growing body of believers who signed up for the TRUTH Journal. And receive daily, delightful dashes of salt and TRUTHes of light from the power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

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Posted in road stories, Tony Funderburk, Words and Music | Tagged drawn to you, road stories, singer songwriter, so much hype
Tony Funderburk Posted on October 10, 2024 by TonyOctober 11, 2024
My day is blessed like all the rest

I crunched my thumb in the door of our van this morning. And that’s how my day started. But my day is blessed.

And I can always say my day is blessed.

No matter what happens. And no matter how often it happens. Or doesn’t happen. Because each day of life is a blessing I didn’t do one thing to earn. My existence is not my own doing. Or the “doing” of a random chain of events.

My existence is the direct result of the God who loves me so much that He made a way for me to be and live here. Then, He made a way for me to be and live forever. And, as a result, I can be the dreamer and doer that I am. Yeah, my day is blessed. Every day.

Now, maybe you’ve heard the expression, “It’s OK to have your castles in the air. Just build a foundation to hold them up.” It’s excellent advice.

But my point today is this. If you see yourself in a negative light instead of as a dreamer, Become a dreamer. Count your blessings. If you live in America, you most likely have many to count even if you don’t think you do. Your needs are probably met. Keep in mind, wants aren’t the same as needs. And dreamers realize their needs are met.

So, they dream up ways to help others see that, too.

Now, I’ve shown you how my day is blessed. Be a dreamer and go show others how yours is.

There’s a special place for dreamers
Who believe in love and hope.
You can go there and enjoy it,
If you don’t just sit and mope.

If today you’re feeling sorry
For yourself, well stop and think…
Do you have food on your table?
Do you have water to drink?

So when things just don’t seem happy
And no sunshine lights your face…
Dream your dream and make a difference
With some love and hope and Grace.

© 2014

OK, maybe you don’t know me well enough to buy something from me, yet. Ok, let’s change that. Get to know more about me and my worldview. Join the growing body of believers who signed up for the TRUTH Journal. And receive daily, delightful flashes of light from the power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

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Posted in current events, Rhymes, Tony Funderburk | Tagged count your blessings, my day is blessed
Tony Funderburk Posted on October 9, 2024 by TonyOctober 9, 2024
Three roads meet and the logic's complete

Trivium. No, it’s not a new antidepressant. At least not yet anyway. The word, Trivium, is Latin for “the place where three roads meet.” And it’s also what they call the three stages of classical homeschooling. The Grammar Stage. The Dialectic Stage. And the Rhetoric Stage.

And keep in mind, these three roads meet in a homeschool.

It’s not likely you’d ever even hear the words trivium, dialectic, and rhetoric in a government indoctrination camp (aka: public school). Because those words just ain’t cool. And when I say “cool,” I mean, how you gonna sound cool if you cain’t be you?

Here’s an example of how you be you:

“Yo dawg, whats crack-a-lackin’?”

That means, “What happened while I was away?”

And here’s another example that’s maybe a little easier to figure out:

“Kick it off to me one time.”

Roughly translated that means, “Could you explain it to me once more?”

That kind of language tends to thrive where three roads meet in the urban ‘hood. Or in the “camp” I mentioned earlier. And it definitely doesn’t focus on absorbing information. Or memorizing the rules of phonics, spelling, grammar, foreign language, history, science, and math.

But those areas are just the Grammar stage of classical homeschooling.

After that students learn logical discussion, debate, drawing correct conclusions, algebra, and thesis writing. And they learn to figure out “the why” behind the information in the Dialectic Stage.

Then, they advance into the Rhetoric Stage. And that’s a deeper dive into developing their ability to use clear and persuasive language and logic.

I saw a more basic description of the three stages. Essentially students learn to input, process, and output data confidently.

Compare that with the touchy feely “public schools” methods and the winner is crystal clear.

And the reason I brought this up is because a lot of people (who were indoctrinated in those camps) like to make fun of homeschoolers. Because they think it’s some mommy teaching her daughter to bake cupcakes. Or some daddy teaching his son to start a fire.

*Slightly side note: good moms and dads DO teach their kids those skills. But that’s in addition to the three stages of The Trivium.

So, here’s why homeschooling is so demonized.

Because it produces critical thinkers. People who aren’t so easy to mentally manipulate with misleading messages.

I’ve known a lot of homeschooled kids. And almost without exception they’ve been the brightest, most articulate kids I’ve ever known. Can you guess why that could be?

Because they’ve been educated by the people who LOVE them.

Your government does NOT love kids. Quite the opposite, in fact. I mean, c’mon. Your government shows you how much it hates you. Every. Single. Day. In just about Every. Single. Way. And if it hates you enough to do what it does to you, why would it be any different with kids they can control even more easily?

But here’s something to consider. Government isn’t a living entity. It’s made up of human beings. But it isn’t, in and of itself, a being to serve. Certainly not when it declines into rebellion against God.

Wow! I went from The Trivium to The Trinity. Makes sense though. Because the three roads (and eventually ALL roads) meet there.

And that’ll be the most awesomest (got that word from the Rhetoric Stage) meet and greet ever.

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

(from my song “Kinetic Love”)

Now, maybe you don’t know me well enough to buy something from me, yet. Ok, let’s change that. Get to know more about me and my worldview. Join the growing body of believers who signed up for the TRUTH Journal. And receive daily, delightful flashes of light from the power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

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Posted in homeschool, politics, Rhymes, Tony Funderburk | Tagged homeschool, homeschooling is better, three roads meet, Trivium
Tony Funderburk Posted on October 8, 2024 by TonyOctober 8, 2024
Fly away one fine day by the Way

My mother’s mother, also known as Grandma, spent the last few years of her life in a nursing home. She lived to be 91. And my mom said one of the few things Grandma could remember in her final months was the old song, “I’ll Fly Away.”

You remember how that one goes. Right?

Some glad morning when this life is o’er, I’ll fly away
To a home on God’s celestial shore, I’ll fly away.
I’ll fly away, Oh Glory, I’ll fly away;
When I die, Hallelujah, by and by…

I’ll fly away.

The really interesting part of that memory is how that might not have been a song you’d associate with my Grandma. She was, let’s say, quite the salty character in her day. Colorful language. Loud. Heavy smoker. And totally unafraid to voice her opinions.

Certainly not a description of the quintessential “church lady.”

But God’s influence, even in the lives of people who don’t seem to fit the description, can reach deeper than expected. And my Grandma’s memories of Christian songs came from being raised by my much more quintessential “church-going” Great-Grandparents.

I grew up knowing them as Poodle and Poppy. They were actually John and Amanda Houck. Poodle died when I was around 5. And Poppy died when I about 14. And he was the guy I talk about when I say I sat on a porch and ate radishes with a man from the 1800’s. They were born in the 1870’s.

Anyway…

They were devoted to each other. And they were devoted Christians. So, they raised their kids, including my Grandma, with the Bible as their guide.

I’m thankful for that kind of heritage.

And I’m also thankful for the freedom it has provided me. The Truth does that. And that freedom has been a huge part of why I’ve been able to share flights of fancy in rhymes for decades. My plan is to keep doing that until I fly away one day.

Here’s one I shared over ten years ago. It’s aimed at kids. But there’s enough meaning for adults, too.

I can teach you how to fly,
Only if you don’t ask why
We don’t have wings.
‘Cause when you learn how to fly,
And you’re high up in the sky,
You’ll find out things.
Things about the stratosphere,
Not like things you’re used to here.
You’ll love it there.
There, the sky is your playground.
Flying friends are all around
You in the air.
Getting there is easy, too.
All you really have to do
Is close your eyes.
Then imagine way up high,
Just imagine how to fly
In your own skies. © 2013

Now, maybe you don’t know me well enough to buy something from me, yet. Ok, let’s change that. Get to know more about me and my worldview. Join the growing body of believers who’ve signed up for the TRUTH Journal. And bask in daily, delightful flashes of light from the power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

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Posted in family friendly, life is beautiful, Rhymes, Tony Funderburk | Tagged family history, fly away, rhymes for kids

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