Tony Funderburk

Posted on August 26, 2024 by TonyAugust 28, 2024

A long time ago is all if you don’t know

A long time ago isn’t worthy to be compared to a long time to come. Unless your future depends on you.

Ok. I should probably explain that. Because, on the surface, it might sound like philosophical silliness. And I certainly don’t wanna sound silly, except for the times I’m being silly on purpose.

Can you imagine the hopeless feeling a person must get when they ponder the extent of endless time apart from a living, loving God? Can you imagine what sort of aching in the heart must exist for the person who believes eternal blackness awaits them? I know, with all my being, that life came from Life. But there are billions of people who believe life arose from non-living matter. Of course, they don’t bother to explain where that matter came from in the first place. So, it’s kinda like matter doesn’t matter.

And, yet, they believe that matter is all that matters. Well, matter and the here and now. And they believe you can only know what you can know with your five senses. But they never explain which of the five senses tells them that.

A long time ago, even as a young boy, I understood this truth.

All life came from Life.

God created us. And He’s made a way for us to live and be with Him through endless time. It doesn’t matter that we can’t truly comprehend endless time. Just trust it’s time without end. No more death and dying. No more broken-down bodies. And no more dark hearts living in a world of darkness.

I’m hope-filled and hopeful. Because I believed this Truth a long time ago. How about you? I hope you have that kind of confidence in your heart, too. Or do you feel helpless and hopeless like the person in this poem?

Forever Is Forever

Silence hanged over the night
Like an English fog over the bay.
The moon was a million silver candles
Shining through a black velvet curtain.
I heard the wind sing through the grass
And a coyote howl on a hill.
“Forever is probably like this,” I thought,
“And if it is, I won’t be around to know it;
So what of it?”
That must be why there are questions.
If they all had answers
That we knew of,
We wouldn’t ask them.
Yes, forever is a night,
But a night passes on
While forever is forever.
Will there always be the foggy silence?
The million silver candles?
The black velvet curtain?
Will there always be the singing wind?
And coyote’s howl?
These things we can only ponder,
And we may ponder…
Forever.

Maybe you don’t know me well enough to buy something from me, yet. Ok, then get to know more about me and my worldview. Join the growing body of believers who’ve signed up for the TRUTH Journal. And enjoy my daily flashes of light from the power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 25, 2024 by TonySeptember 9, 2024

Master of the universe: one is better, one is worse

It’s truly your lucky day! Because, even though I didn’t think I’d ever share this secret again, I’m gonna show you the main ingredients you need in order to be master of the universe. And despite what you might have thought, up until this moment…

You are NOT already the master of the universe.

But I’m here for you. You’re my digital neighbor. And the Bible says to love your neighbor as yourself. So, keep reading. And in almost no time at all your master of the universe status will change. Oh, and by the way, don’t let those scientists who say the universe is expanding throw you off course. It’s do-able if you have the right stuff and never give up.

So, are you ready? Good, let’s get to it.

First off, you gotta gather up the ingredients to get the universe going in the first place. And you’ll need a rough idea of how long your materials can last and what they’ll be made of. No worries. You can do all the calculations on the handy device of your choice.

(note to self: build a master of the universe ingredients calculator app. money in the bank)

So, go get yourself some awesome light sources, water, oxygen, and as many of the elements as you can. Remember, you’re gonna build the right kinds of planets, moons, suns, and other heavenly bodies to form a functioning and cohesive universe. This ain’t gonna be some lean-to chicken hut for crying out loud. And you don’t want it to just splatter all over the place. Right?

OK, once you have all those ingredients, it’s a good time to pause, at least for a few minutes or so, to ponder your “end game.”

And your end game has to be able to answer these two questions…

What’s your “why?”
Who’s your target audience? (or, in this case, who will be serving you?)

Alright. Great! You’ve got the ingredients. And you’ve answered the two questions for your end game.

I’m sure you’re probably like most people who want to be master of the universe. Your WHY is already answered in your goal. And your target audience is made up of the fairly intelligent creatures you’ll control. All those so-called “people” who’ll tend to the planets, moons, and stars so you can relax.

So, it would probably be a good idea to take some of those ingredients you gathered up and see if you could stir them together and make some interactive beings. Personally I think this would be the hardest part of the whole thing. But maybe you’ve already got some good ideas on how you’ll do it.

And once you have a couple of those “beings” formed, see if you can devise a way for them to procreate. You certainly don’t want to have to go make new ones every time you turn around or get bored. Am I right? And if they make new ones, that just means you’ll have even more of them to control.

Win-Win

OK, now you’ve got a bunch of self-replicating creatures building stuff and working on “their own ideas.” So, move in and show them how it’s all done. After all, they wouldn’t even be here if it wasn’t for you. And they’ll probably just bend over backwards trying to find ways to thank you for controlling their lives.

And that’s when you’ll have an irresistible urge to send me thank you gifts. Not necessary. Seriously.

I’ve gotta be transparent and tell you something. For the vast majority of people I’ve shared al this information with, it all sounds like too much work. Yeah, I get it. If you’ve gotten this far, you might be at that crossroads, too. If so, there’s another option.

You could just leave the whole universe in the hands of someone who really knows what He’s doing. That’s the option I’ve chosen. And I gotta tell you, it’s the only option you’re most likely gonna be able to commit to long term. And long term is much longer with this option. Plus, it’s such a relief to know you’re not in charge of things like…

Gravity
Oxygen
Water
Sunlight
Moon dimensions…etc…etc…etc

So, if you decide to take a pass on the whole master of the universe thing, consider the prayer option.

Pray to the God of Creation and thank Him that He made you, the world, the universe, and everything in it. Thank God He didn’t leave it up to men and women. Because we haven’t even mastered which clothes go in which cycle of the washing machine.

Thank God

In the best of times, where’s the challenge?
In the worst of times, where’s your choice?
And in the fevered pitch, where’s the silence?
When the love is breached, where’s the voice?
Could you have your very life taken from you
While the world stood at your feet?
Wouldn’t that completely stop and numb you?
Wouldn’t you admit defeat?
Well, thank God He didn’t leave it up to you…
Thank God He didn’t leave it up to you. (repeat)

In the darkest hours, who’s your Father?
In the scheme of things, who’s the One?
And in the best laid plans, who’s the Spirit?
When your heart is healed, who’s the Son?
Could you let your very blood be taken
For your friends who’d run away?
Wouldn’t all your faith and hope be shaken?
Would you even think to pray?

Thank God He didn’t leave it up to you…
(repeat twice)

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 24, 2024 by TonyAugust 24, 2024

Maybe you’re familiar with the expression, “It was a real red letter day.” But just in case you’re not, maybe you’ll find this next part interesting.

Current usage of “red letter day” is like decaf coffee.

You get the flavor. But none of the oomph.

One language origins site describes current usage like this:

“In modern usage, a red letter day is often associated with positive experiences and happy memories. It can be a time for reflection on past achievements and looking forward to future opportunities. And whether it’s a wedding anniversary, graduation ceremony, or national holiday, these moments are often marked by joyous celebrations and special traditions.”

So, happy, positive, funtime. Yippee skippy.

But back in medieval times, it was a whole ‘nother thing. Red letter days were religious feast days marked on calendars with red ink. And those days were considered holy. So, they stood out from ordinary days.

OK, so they were holy days. But that doesn’t explain the red color. Unless you understand the connection between the color, red, and holy days and things.

Of course, for Christians who were raised in traditional homes with traditional Christian values, the color red is always associated with the blood shed by Jesus. And it’s such a big deal (the biggest ever) that there are even “red letter editions” of the Bible. Both my physical AND digital Bibles are that kind.

And here’s a section that ties in nicely with what I’ve mentioned here lately.

Remember, these words are in red. So, you know what that means.

“You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.

You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”

So, here’s my hope for the day, which, as I write this, is a Saturday.

Go make it a red letter day. From both the medieval perspective AND the modern.

Be happy. Be thankful. And remember to share your salt and light. Now, get up and get going!

By the way…

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 23, 2024 by TonySeptember 4, 2024

Good for the environment statement didn't make a dent

I gotta share this story I just saw again today. Maybe you’ve seen some version of it. But it’s about what happened when a young cashier told an older woman “you should bring your grocery bags next time. Because plastic bags aren’t good for the environment.”

And the older woman shared some actual good for the environment facts.

Here’s the story version I saw:

The woman apologized, “We didn’t have this green thing back in my day.”

The young clerk said, “Your generation didn’t care enough to save the environment for future generations.”

So, the woman gave him a firm stare and a hard grin and said…

“Back then, we returned milk bottles, soda bottles, and beer bottles. And the store sent them back to the plant to be washed sterilized and refilled. So they could use the same bottles over. They were recycled.

Grocery stores bagged our groceries in brown paper bags which we reused for numerous things. We walked upstairs because we didn’t have an escalator in every store and office building. And we walked to the grocery and didn’t climb into a 300-horsepower machine every time we had to go two blocks.

Back then, we washed the baby’s diapers. Because we didn’t have the throwaway kind. And we dried clothes on a line. Not in an energy-gobbling machine burning up 220 volts. Wind and solar power did dry our clothes back in our day. And kids got hand-me-down clothes from their brothers or sisters. Not always brand-new clothing.

Back then, we had one TV, or radio, in the house.

Not a TV in every room. And the TV had a small screen the size of a handkerchief. Not an energy draining screen the size of the state of Montana. In the kitchen, we blended and stirred by hand. Because we didn’t have electric machines to do everything for us.

When we packaged a fragile item to send in the mail, we used wadded-up old newspapers to cushion it. Not Styrofoam or plastic bubble wrap.

And back then, we didn’t fire up an engine and burn gasoline just to cut the lawn. We used a push mower that ran on human power. We exercised by working. So we didn’t need to go to a health club to run on treadmills that operate on electricity.

And we drank from a fountain when we were thirsty instead of using a cup or a plastic bottle every time we had a drink of water. We refilled writing pens with ink instead of buying a new pen. And we replaced the razor blades with a razor instead of throwing away the whole razor just because the blade got dull.

Back then, people took a bus and kids rode their bikes instead of turning their moms into a 24-hour taxi service. We had one electrical outlet in a room. Not an entire bank of sockets to power a dozen appliances.

And we didn’t need a computerized gadget to receive a signal beamed from satellites 23,000 miles in space to find the nearest burger joint. But the current generation laments how wasteful we old folks were just because we didn’t have the green thing.”

The cashier stood there still and quiet as the old lady found her wallet to pay.

Then, the lady turned to leave. But she stepped back and turned toward the cashier.

And she said “You have a world of knowledge in that little device in your hand. Pity you just use it to gossip, take pictures, and waste time. It would do you good to search a bit of history before you embarrass yourself like this again.

I love that story. I don’t know if I’m as old as the old lady. But I can relate to every example she shared. And, in fact, I can remember living in a house where the cooking was done entirely with a wood-burning stove. For a long time there was an ice box instead of a refrigerator. And we ate food that came from a chicken, cow, pig, or garden just outside the farmhouse doors.

But today younger people think THEY know what’s good for the environment because of the regurgitated nonsense they soak up in schools, from TV, and online.

That’s why I wrote, a long time ago:

We want to live in a fat-free environment, and
We want to make sure the ozone is intact.
And so we watch all those service commercials, and
It’s just so easy to sit back and react.
Is it just melodrama for me to feel this way?
I wonder. Is it just me? Or does it all sound so cliché?

Stay tuned…

Before you go, sign up for The TRUTH emails. And join the growing body of believers who get my daily Flash of light from the power of God’s love.

Posted on August 22, 2024 by TonyAugust 22, 2024

Breath of the wild and breath of the child

Wild animals and other creatures breathe. But the breath of the wild things isn’t the same as the breath that goes in and out of you and me.

And by “breath of the wild things” I don’t mean plain ol’ oxygen.

I noticed how God created the Earth, separated the water from dry land, put “lights” into the heavens, and blessed the ground with all the plants that could reproduce “according to its kind.” Then He created all the land, sea, and air creatures and gave them the ability to reproduce “according to its kind.”

And finally He created Man.

But here’s the difference between Man and all the rest of the creatures and creation. The Bible says “And then the Lord God formed man of the dust of the earth, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life.” He didn’t do that to any other creature.

Only humans received life directly from God’s life. His life entered into us. And us alone. And only humans were made in the “image and likeness of God.” No other creatures.

We’re unique. Don’t let anyone tell you you’re just another animal on the planet. You’re not.

If you’re unsure if you have the breath of life from God in you, do this.

Look in the mirror. Do you see a human being? Then you have it. If you see some sort of freak with turquoise hair on one side of your head, while the other side is bald, and you’re a man who prefers she/her pronouns, all bets are off.

But, either way, keep this in mind. If you’ve never made the decision to trust God and trust that His Son, Jesus, died for your sins, then that breath of life will exhale from you forever when you breathe your last breath here on Earth. And then you might as well have had the breath of the wild creatures in you. Because your hope of glory is gone.

Are you gonna let that happen? It’s a complicated problem with a simple answer. Either the God and Savior of the Bible is real or He isn’t. Either you can prove He doesn’t exist, or you can’t. When I considered the mountain of evidence FOR the existence of Jesus, I chose to trust Him. And I chose life.

I recommend you choose life, too. Don’t let torment choose you. While there is still the breath of life in you, it’s not too late to choose.

Stay tuned…

Before you go, sign up for The TRUTH emails. And join the growing body of believers who get my daily Flash of light from the power of God’s love.

Posted on August 21, 2024 by TonyAugust 24, 2024

Understatement of the year is maybe right here

Sure, you could say Tino loves music. If you’re trying to win the “understatement of the year” contest, you could say that.

Or another “understatement of the year” could be…

“He’s no quitter.”

Boy oh boy, is THAT putting it mildly.

Because Tino’s efforts in the cutthroat music world were almost legendary. First, he got fed up with traditional gatekeepers who rejected his work. Next, he got sick of “all the fairness” as he called it. And, finally, he took matters into his own hands.

He thought to himself, “Hey, why not use the power of the internet? It seems to be workin’ pretty well for some of those YouTubers and Instagramers.”

So, he set up an independent music publishing label entirely online. He found an affordable hosting company, DreamHost, where he could serve up a user-friendly website. But he didn’t make it all about him and his music.

Tino decided to make his platform a place where hard-working artists could upload their music and communicate directly with their fans. Plus, for a little extra, they could even manage their merchandise sales without the enormous fees that come with traditional labels.

Yeah, that could go a long way toward beating that old-school music world.

He understood you gotta make money or else it’s just a hobby. So, Tino set up a subscription-based model. For a small monthly fee, fans could subscribe to get exclusive access to new releases, behind-the-scenes content, and live-streamed studio sessions.

And that move helped to provid a steady income for the artists. Plus, it helped them build a loyal fanbase willing to support their favorite musicians directly. Without label gatekeepers.

Here’s another understatement of the year contender.

Tino was an idea guy.

Yeah, that’s serious tip-of-the-iceberg stuff right there.

Because he used social media channels and digital marketing strategies to promote his artists. He knew how to create compelling content to showcase their unique stories. And built an even stronger connection with their fans and potential fans. And he made sure email marketing was a BIG part of the whole fan connection process.

Should I share more of Tino’s world-beating story?

How about I just tell you that he made great use of:

Streaming technology
Multiple payment gateways
SEO strategies

Tino (and the other artists) loved how it didn’t feel like their pockets were being picked by promoters, publishers, and recording studios and labels anymore.

And fans loved the much more direct connection they could make with their favorite singers and bands. In just a few years, Tino carved what looked like a permanent niche for himself in the music world.

That’s right.

He found that, with the right tools and strategies, artists could indeed beat the music world at its own game.

Wow, his story reminds me of the 8th song on my Do Right collection. Beat The World. In fact, check out these lyrics (that Tino didn’t write).

~ Every time you turn your back
There’s somebody there to pick your pockets.
And so you see there’s more to life,
More than love and rockets. ~

And then, there’s this verse:

~ Yeah…every time you make your mark
There’s somebody there to erase it.
And people say that’s just the way it is
And boy you’d better face it. ~

Get the rest of the lyrics, and all the lyrics to ALL the songs when you get your own Do Right Songbook Journal.

You’ll also get lots of pages where you can journal, take notes in church, or just doodle if you prefer. AND you can download ALL the songs (at no extra charge) from a secret (not secret) link in the book.

Just go to the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop and get yours today.

https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/rhyme-and-reason-bookshop

Let me know if you have any problems getting the book. I’ll make sure you get it!

Stay tuned,

Posted on August 20, 2024 by TonyAugust 20, 2024

Fresh air and sunshine and layin' it on the line

Over ten years ago I wrote about what it takes to be a healthy, happy human. And I said, “First, you have to be a human. Next, you need to be healthy and happy.” Sounds sensible enough. Right? And I added some suggestions for getting outside to soak in some fresh air and sunshine. Doesn’t take much but consistency.

And fresh air and sunshine have some incredible side benefits.

Without even realizing it you’re liable to crave a sensible diet with a good balance of protein, carbs, fats, and water. And you might find yourself craving a walk around the neighborhood or park. Who knows? You might even discover an appreciation of activities like bike rides, swimming, or tennis.

But beware!

You might also find that you prefer to create art, play music, or work on projects around the house instead of sitting on the couch watching TV or video games. Yeah, fresh air and sunshine can do crazy things to you.

But fresh air and sunshine won’t make you crazy and stupid. And they also won’t make you:

Advocate for the murder of babies
Murder people you disagree with
Shoot presidential candidates
Support worldly stuff God hates
Take drugs and sleep in your own filth on sidewalks in business districts
Vote for people who tolerate any of the above

No. Healthy happy humans know better. And do better.

Be healthy. Get outside. Move around. And more than all that, learn to love your neighbor as yourself. Do you realize that if everyone would do just that ONE. SIMPLE. THING, America (and the world) would have no need for so-called “laws” and people who call themselves “lawmakers.”

I shared a meme on social media yesterday that said “That whole antichrist thing could be avoided if everyone would just love your neighbor as yourself. Darn! Why does the solution have to be so easy nobody believes it?”

It’s more proof of how God uses the simple to confound the “wise.”

OK, read this rhyme and then get outside for a little fresh air and sunshine. If it’s raining, then wait. But don’t let that keep you from gettin’ healthy and happy.

Hey, I’m talkin’ to you man…
Be a healthy happy human.
It’s not so hard to do man,
But don’t wait one more day.

Think about what you’re eatin’…
Those brain cells you’re mistreatin’…
Bad habits will keep repeatin’
Unless you stop and say…

“I’m a healthy happy human
‘Cause I know what to do man.
I’m changin’ through and through man,
I’m goin’ outside and play.”

Before you go,

Sign up for my new (and hopefully even more enjoyable) newsletter, The TRUTH. And join the growing band of believers who get a daily Flash of light from the power of God’s love.

Stay tuned,

Posted on August 19, 2024 by TonyAugust 23, 2024

The anchors, the weather and sports reporters, the investigative reporters, and the editorialists all talked a blue streak night after night. So, it was ironic when Theo felt something like the stroke of a paintbrush across his heart. Because it wasn’t the same feeling as a physical paintbrush stroke.

It was more like a blue streak of cool light.

And it happened as he listened to a late night, local talkshow host talk about something in the Bible. But the host didn’t sound like a preacher. He sounded more like a reporter who related current events to verses in the Bible. And every time he pointed out another truth, it tore away another layer of darkness from Theo’s eyes. The truth sort of pierced right into him like a needle in the hand of skilled nurse. No pain.

So, night after night, Theo would tune in. And night after night he’d hear more truth that he hadn’t heard from churches and other religious organizations. Plus, the talk show host included hilarious entertainment by taking calls from people, all around the country, who disagreed with him.

Theo noticed a pattern form. Many people from all around the country clearly despised the talk show host. And most of them could only express their contempt for him with insults and complaints. They refused to believe the words he read, directly from the Bible, were actually words in the Bible. Because, like me, they also hadn’t heard those messages in church. Or from any Christians they knew.

So, Theo tuned in to the show, for months. He couldn’t find any points of contention or disagreement with the talk show host.

And he enjoyed how the host ended his shows with “Do right. And risk the consequences.”

Then, one day, after watching a particularly entertaining episode of the show, Theo’s brain lit up with some lyrics. Oh yeah, I forgot to mention. Theo’s an excellent songwriter. So, he wrote down the words, editing as he wrote (because that’s the best way). And he twiddled around with some chords and progressions as he ironed out the verses and chorus.

I’ll bet you can see why his first line was…

“There’s a blue streak like a paintbrush stroke through my heart.”

Right? You picked up on that whole connection I’ll betcha. And I bet you get this next line, too.

“It’s a cool light and it tears the darkness apart.”

How about it? The lyrics make a lotta sense, since you read a little bit of the backstory. Can I get an Amen? So, any guesses on the next line? Try these next two lines:

“I’m so near it; though it pierces me I don’t fear it.
Like a needle; the Word sews into my spirit.”

I don’t know about you, but that gave me goosebumps. OK, maybe little goslingbumps. But I really enjoy observing a maestro’s mind at work.

Well, I’ve been writing up a blue streak about this story. So, I’m not gonna share the whole rest of the laborious and intense songwriting process with you. But you can rest assured, Theo included the line, “Do right and risk the consequences.”

You know what you should Do Right now?

Go get your own digital download of the Do Right Songbook Journal. And when you get your own copy, you’ll get all the lyrics to ALL the songs. Not just this Do Right song I wrote about.

Plus, there are tons of pages where you can journal, take notes in church, or just doodle if you prefer. AND you can download ALL the songs (at no extra charge) from a secret (not secret) link in the book.

Just go to the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop and get yours today.

https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/rhyme-and-reason-bookshop

Let me know if you have any problems getting the book. I’ll make sure you get it! Till next time…

Stay tuned…

P.S. If you already have your copy of this classic music, refer the link to someone else. Thanks!

Posted on August 18, 2024 by TonyAugust 18, 2024

Mateo walked through the shin-deep snow on that cold February night in 1996. And one thought kept echoing through the dark chambers of his mind, “I can hear my heart, but I just can’t feel my life.”

But he couldn’t figure out what “feel my life” meant.

Because it wasn’t like he had NO feelings. Of course he had feelings. Lots of ’em. Passionately exasperating feelings. But feelings just the same.

And, after another mile, or so, of trudging through the snow, Mateo heard his own voice say, “I can feel you cut, but I just can’t see the knife.”

What?! He nearly slipped and fell as he quickly turned to look behind him. No one there. But why would there be? The voice was clearly his own. After all, he’d lived long enough to recognize the sound of his own voice, thank you very much.

But why would his own voice taunt him with talk about feeling the cut but not seeing the knife? That was serious cloak and dagger stuff right there.

So, he gathered up the small amount of logic his brain could muster in that moment, and he started to pray, “Dear God, would You slip Yourself inside of me, now, and show me what I’m meant to be? My heart feels like a dark, locked box. Would you please use the golden key of your Word to unlock it. And protect me from the wizardry of this dark, fallen world down here?”

And he added,

“Even though, right now, I can’t feel my life, I CAN feel Your love.”

Mateo knew God’s love was real even though he’d never met Him face to face.

Faith.

Yeah, that’s what they call it. So, he thought to himself, “Faith knows that whenever I’m alone, You still fill the empty space. And faith helps me know I never really have to reach for You, Lord. Because You always seem to pull me through. And You do the things that I can’t do. Not even if I wanted to. And not even if I tried.

As those words flooded into his mind, his doubts and worries started to fade away, like the dwindling snowflakes in the frigid, night air.

So, he tapped into the source of his strength. And he sang,

I have to believe You did everything for me.
‘Cause what I have to believe is the truth that sets me free.

Then, he said out loud, “Now, I know why I couldn’t feel my life. Because I forgot my life is not my own. No, God spent more than the whole world could ever repay to buy my life. And I’m sure I don’t deserve it. But, now, I’m lighter than air and soaring like a bird.”

OK, there’s a glimpse into part of one night in the life of Mateo.

By the way, his name means “Gift from God.” And He sprang to life just a few minutes ago when I decided to create his moment of angst to point to the song, “Have To Believe.” It’s the first song in the Do Right collection.

You’ve heard of the Do Right collection, no doubt. Because you’re familiar with how the whole collection is somewhat connected to a local Denver night time talk show host from way back. Right? You know that story. Right?

Well, it doesn’t matter if you do right now. Because right now I’m telling you how to get your own digital download of the Do Right Songbook Journal. And when you get your own copy, you’ll get all the lyrics to all the songs. Plus, there are tons of pages where you can journal, take notes in church, or just doodle if you prefer. AND you can download all the songs (at no extra charge) from a secret link in the book.

Just go to the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop and get yours today.

https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/rhyme-and-reason-bookshop

I’ll wait here and…

Stay tuned…

P.S. If you already have your copy of this classic music, refer the link to someone else. Thanks!

Posted on August 17, 2024 by TonyAugust 22, 2024

Struck out, struck down, and washed up in this town

You’ve heard how there was no joy in Mudville when Mighty Casey struck out. Well, I assume you’ve heard that or read it. And I know what happens when you assume. So, maybe I should have given a spoiler alert. But the poem first appeared back in 1888. So, for cryin’ out loud, if you haven’t read it or heard it by now, then shame on you.

Anyway…

Mighty Casey struck out. But that’s nothing compared to Wyler’s woes.

I know you’ve never heard of Wyler James. And I’ll explain how I know that, shortly. Just know for now, that when it comes to someone who knows what it feels like to be struck out, you don’t have to look any further than Wyler.

He started out on a what looked like a fast track to stardom. Because his first 3 songs were covered by some Nashville names big enough to make him a fair sum of money as it made them a lot more. So, that was mighty cool.

And Wyler gained a considerable amount of recognition from his appearances in the Nashville venues that featured songwriters “in the round.” People just plain liked him. And they liked those first 3 hits, a trio of soulful love songs.

But one gray day Wyler hit two metaphorical, but solid, stone walls that stalled out his career.

First, the music industry moved into a time where his style of soulful love songs just were “not what the public wants to hear,” according to publishers, promoters, and radio execs. So, that was a pretty big slap. Because Wyler wasn’t a “viral hits” and “dance tracks” kind of songwriter they said they needed.

But the other stone wall was where he really got the rug pulled out from under him.

And that wall was Wyler’s worldview.

Yeah, it’s safe to say he didn’t tow the creative community’s party line. Because Wyler not only considered himself a Christian AND a conservative. He actually voiced his opinion. A lot.

GASP!

Can you imagine? (Yeah, you probably can, right?)

So…

Former so-called “friends” faded into the background. Or should I say into the woodwork? And publishers, and other songwriters, treated him as persona non grata (that’s Italian for persona non grata). And I can tell you, from experience, a persona with non grata has a much harder time paying the bills.

So, Wyler’s desk filled up with past-due bills. And he headed toward total bankruptcy. Because the memories of the days of radio hits, sold-out shows, and awards motivated him to stick with his true love. Music.

And, in a world that increasingly doesn’t appreciate the Christian worldview, Wyler seemed to face impossible odds.

But he wasn’t the kind of guy who bet the odds.

And night after night he’d go to his guitar, strum and hum, and look for “that song.” The one his heart wanted to sing to (and FOR) everyone who faced seemingly impossible odds because they dared to speak their Christian faith.

Finally, one night he found some chords and strums that fit just right with 4 lines of lyrics that kept popping into his brain. And he wrote…

You say you’re feeling empty and it doesn’t go away.
And you live for your tomorrow and suffer in today.
You need to blow your trumpet to tear down all the walls
And keep your heart wide open to hear God when He calls.

Suddenly Wyler felt revived.

And it was as if his soul filled up with renewed hope, love, and determination. Then, he set up his computer studio, positioned his mic, and recorded the whole song in only a couple of takes.

He listened to the finished song about 10 times. And every time he heard it, he liked it more. Then, he got this crazy idea that he’d just skip the Nashville publishing, promoting scene. He’d just put his song directly in front of the fans he still had on his social media pages.

As it turned out, there were still plenty of fans and followers who loved his music. And many of them shared his new song. Before he would have ever dreamed it could happen, the song became one of those viral hits. Yeah. And that’s in spite of it not being a dance track.

Go figure.

I won’t bore you with the rest of the details of what happened after that. Because here’s the part of the story where I share with you how I know you never heard of Wyler James.

You never heard of him because he didn’t exist before I wrote this story. But the lines to his song existed. Because I wrote them way back in the 90’s. And the song, Impossible Odds, was included on my Do Right CD. Yes, CD.

Now, you can get a digital download of the Do Right Songbook Journal in the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop. We just added it to the digital bookshelves today. You’ll get the lyrics to all the songs, lots of pages to journal or doodle on, and a link to download all the songs to your favorite device, included at zero dinero. Don’t be struck out watching that offer pass you by.

But if you don’t know me well enough to spend money on a book, then jump on the The TRUTH. Get to know me better. Just so you know, Wyler’s worldview is mine, too.

Join the growing band of believers who enjoy my books, daily rhymes, songs, and videos about the Rhyme and Reason and power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 16, 2024 by TonyDecember 1, 2024

Typhoon Tycoon whose feeling were strewn

So you see the title, Typhoon Tycoon, and you think to yourself, “Self. That’s obviously the most important thing I’ve got to read today. So, read it NOW!”

Am I right? Yes?

I knew it. Because who wouldn’t wanna know more about such an odd topic?

But now that you’re here I gotta tell ya. It was a ruse. A ploy. A diversion to make you look at my left hand while my right hand performed the magic. And that’s the key today.

To get you to look somewhere else. And change up your routine to add more love and care. For yourself. And for your neighbor. Here’s my recommendation.

As you go through your day today, as you check your texts, instant messages, social media accounts, YouTube and Instagram videos, and even your eCommerce stats, take a pause.

Look up. Look around. Pay attention to the ones you love. And talk to them. Embrace. Laugh. Enjoy the time. They won’t be here forever. And you won’t either. But you’ll all be somewhere forever. So, talk about that. And be sure where you’re going. Because it matters more than any other message you’ll receive from any other source.

Are you good to go? Then, I’ll tell you…

The Tale of the Typhoon Tycoon

Lorenzo Lanune, the Tycoon,
Stored his gold inside a typhoon.
Though most thought he must be a loon,
He trusted his moolah monsoon.
Each day he’d compose a new tune.
At night, on his contrabassoon,
He’d play, by the light of the moon,
And birds from Kowloon to Rangoon
Flocked to trees to listen and croon.

And every third week the tycoon
Put more gold inside his typhoon.
And it turned into a balloon
That looked like a golden doubloon.
Then, one day, exactly at noon,
In the month there’d be a blue moon,
He sailed away from his lagoon,
On the wild winds of his typhoon,
Like the famous fork and the spoon.

See, Lorenzo was not immune
To the words in a local tune
Where they called him a picaroon.
It’s not likely he’ll return soon.
The lyrics were like a harpoon
Intended to lightly lampoon.
So Lorenzo left a festoon
On the statue of John Calhoun,
And he turned into a cartoon.

Before you go, jump on the The TRUTH. And join the growing band of believers who enjoy my books, daily rhymes, songs, and videos about the Rhyme and Reason and power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 15, 2024 by TonyDecember 1, 2024

OK kiddos from 3 to 103. I’ll just let you know, right up front, that I’m here for you. Because I know that you fit into one of these categories. You are the:

Cream of the crop
Top of the heap
Bee’s knees
Cat’s meow
Best thing since sliced bread

And maybe you’ve even come up with something else you think describes your effervescent and irresistible personality. If so, good for you. Or is it, good ON you these days? No matter.

You know what you are. We’ll leave it at that. Just know I’m here for you.

And I bet just knowing that relaxes you to your very soul. Right? Yeah, because until I popped into your email inbox, you were fretting about something. And you know what they say about fretting, don’t you? Well, I don’t know what they say. But I’m sure it isn’t complimentary or reassuring.

Anyway…

Back to why and how I’m here for you.

I’m here for you because you need a break from the negativity, vulgarity, and instability of the news and the “newsmakers.” And you need a reason to smile, forget about who said what about whom, and just remember that God is gonna make everything beautiful, bright, and completely right again one fine day.

I had some special words I wanted to share with you about that. But I seem to have misplaced them. I’ve searched under my computer. Down the side of my desk. And even under my cap. But the words appear to have vanished into thin air (because nothing vanishes into thick air).

Well, there’s my quandary. My dilemma, plight, and predicament.

So, I scratch my head and ask:

Did I put the words in a bag
With a tag that looks like a flag?
Did I stick the words in a shoe
Painted blue to make it look new?
Did I hide the words in a drum
Which, to some, could make me look dumb?
Did I let the words out the door
Where they’ll soar and come back no more?
Did I leave the words in my head
To be read by no one instead?
Nope, I found the words in my eyes,
So surprise! They’re here for you guys.

As always, thanks for joining me on another ride on the rails of Rhyme and Reason.

Before you go, jump on the The TRUTH. And join the growing band of believers who enjoy my books, daily rhymes, songs, and videos about the Rhyme and Reason and power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 14, 2024 by TonyDecember 1, 2024

Young doctors of fame can't outdo this name

Once upon an old West morning, in the little town of Glenwood Springs, the scent of freshly baked bread and coffee wafted through the air. And it woke up one of the most famous young doctors ever.

He got up, walked to the window, opened the curtain, and sunshine flooded the room like liquid gold. And, from downstairs he heard a voice yell out..

“Good morning, birthday boy! Rise and shine. Coffee’s in the cup. Time to get up!”

So, he got dressed, splashed some water on his face, and drifted down the stairs. And as he turned the corner into the kitchen, his wife, Kate, slipped a blindfold over his eyes from behind.

Naturally, he was taken by surprise. But he played along. “What in the world?! Who is this? And what’s the big idea?” he asked.

“Young doctors need plenty of fresh air and sunshine,” was the reply.

And with that answer, he heard the screen door squeak as Kate led him out the back door. She led him slowly down the 7 steps into the back yard. They walked a few steps through the cool, soft grass. And she sat him down at their backyard picnic table.

“Ok,” he said. “So, we’re having breakfast in the back yard. Great. ‘Cause I’m hungry.”

“That IS good,” Kate answered. “You better be hungry. Because here’s a mighty big breakfast!”

And, as she said the word, breakfast, she removed the blindfold. And all around them, gathered in the big back yard, was just about the entire town of Glenwood Springs. But how they had managed to stay so quiet is anybody’s guess. Because there were kids holding balloons, adults holding coffee cups and plates and forks, and a big, waving banner that read, “Happy Birthday, Doc!”

It was almost as if removing the blindfold flipped the switch on to a big celebration. The kids started playing, the adults started eating and drinking, and the breezes snapped the banner back and forth.

Then, Mayor Silverton stepped forward and handed Doc a beautifully carved wooden box.

“This is for you, Doc. From all of us,” he said warmly.

So, Doc opened the box and found a gold pocket watch. It was artistically engraved with the words…

“To our Hero and Friend. Happy Birthday.”

Doc was overwhelmed by that outpouring of love. And, at first, he didn’t know what to say.

But he held the watch close. And thought about for a minute or so. Then he somehow managed to say, “I’ve faced many challenges in my life, but nothing has touched me as deeply as this. Thank you all.”

As the day turned to dusk and the sky turned dark blue,
Under twinkling stars, and as if right on cue,
Everyone sang out loud, “Happy, happy birthday!”
What a way to show love for their Doc Holliday.

And that’s exactly the way it was on that special birthday for one of the most famous young doctors ever. Doc Holliday, who’d be 173 today. Because he was born August 14, 1851.

(FYI: it’s not really the way it was. But it might have been if he had made some different choices.)

Anyway…

Before you go, jump on the The TRUTH. And join the growing band of believers who enjoy my books, daily rhymes, songs, and videos about the Rhyme and Reason and power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 13, 2024 by TonyAugust 18, 2024

The goal, the prize, and where to point your eyes

Kris and Themum woke up to a thunderstorm filled with bright flashes of lightning. Thank goodness they had taken extra time to secure their tents and position them for protection. Because the thunderstorm turned into what Uncle Paulo would describe as “a real frog drowner.” But they weren’t gonna let a little rain put a damper on reaching the goal for the day.

Because the goal for the day was the ultimate hiker’s prize.

The summit. The peak. A couple more vertical miles, and they’d see the tip-top of the goal they’d talked about for a long time. And they both thought about that as they fired up the little backpack grill to make breakfast and coffee.

Neither one said anything. Kris had pointed out, before they even started their climb, that he wasn’t a morning talker. And Themum said he just wasn’t a morning person, period. So, that worked out. Even though it sounds funny to say it, they could just enjoy the mountain sounds in silence.

After breakfast, and a jolt of adrenaline thanks to their Italian roast coffee, the guys gathered up their gear to get ready to press on.

And as most climbers (the honest ones at least) might tell you, they didn’t even fully understand WHY they pressed on. Because the thin air increased the challenge with each step up in elevation. So, it wasn’t like it was just a walk in the park.

But when set a goal, you gotta keep your eyes on the goal.

Otherwise your mind, and aching muscles, can conjure up all kinds of reasons to turn back. And Kris and Themum certainly faced those distractions way up there above the tree line. But the awesome beauty of the summit, bathed in the orange-red-yellow glow of the morning sun, urged them forward.

After a few more switchbacks, the trail turned considerably narrower. And rockier.

As they approached a sharp turn, next to a wind-worn tree trunk, Themum felt a pebble in his hiking boot. So, he stopped to lean on the tree trunk for support and remove it. But just as he started to lift his foot to unlace the boot his other foot twisted slightly on another rock. And his hand slipped off the tree trunk. And he tumbled off the edge of the trail.

Kris had just made the sharp turn when he looked back to see Themum disappear over the edge. And, as you can well imagine, he dashed back down the trail to where his friend had fallen out of sight. He was afraid of what he might find. Or not find. But he quickly calmed that fear with faith.

“Themum!” he called out.

And thankfully Themum replied, “I’m right down here. Good thing there was a shrub to break my fall. But it’s pretty small. And I don’t know if it can hold me for long.”

So, Kris answered back, “OK, don’t worry. I’ll help you get back up here.”

And with that promise, Kris quickly looked around for something to hand down to his friend. There wasn’t much to choose from. But he DID find one solid limb, about 4 feet long, that looked like it had fallen off that wind-worn tree.

Then, he carefully approached the edge of the trail again.

“Ok, buddy. I’m gonna hand you a branch to grab on to. Can you do that without falling?” he asked.

Themum answered, “Yeah, I think so. But I think we’d better hurry. The roots of this shrub seem to be shifting around a little bit.”

So, Kris grabbed on to another shrub with his left hand and lowered the branch down to his friend. And it was a good thing the branch was about 4 feet long. Because they needed every inch of it.

“Now, we’ve gotta sync up just right, buddy,” Kris told Themum. “When I pull, you gotta get the best footing you can and push at the same time. Are you ready?”

Themum dug his right hiking boot into the ground and answered, “Ready!”

“OK,” said Kris. We’re one unit. One force. Keep your eyes up here. On three. One! Two!”

And they both grunted out, “THREE!”

Kris pulled the limb. Themum pushed into the ground and reached up to grab another root. And they repeated those moves a few more times till Themum was safely back on the trail. They both laid there in the warm sunlight, breathing deeply, and saying silent prayers of thanks. Because they had combined their efforts into one force, they got the job done right.

In case you’re wondering, yes, they DID go on to the summit. And they enjoyed reaching the goal they had weeks before. There were selfies. And pats on each other’s backs. Plus, they had a nail-biting adventure story they could share with their kids and grandkids.

Aren’t you glad you don’t have to rescue anybody off a mountainside today? And aren’t you glad you can just share stories with kids and grandkids the easy way? Just by going to the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop.

Yeah, do that today. And join the growing band of believers who enjoy my books, daily rhymes, songs, and videos about the Rhyme and Reason and power of God’s love.

I can see a dip in the mountainside
Where the wind shakes the pines like a rattle,
But no matter where I roam or ride
I dream best in the cool windy saddle.

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 12, 2024 by TonyAugust 12, 2024

Solid friendship, northern lights, land of wonder and delights

Finnar and Sami were what you might call “fast friends.” Well, I certainly would anyway. Because that’s an old and established way to describe a solid friendship built on mutual trust.

And only a solid friendship could have done what they did.

Keep in mind, now, every word you’re about to read is based on hand-me-down information. So, you know what that means. Yep. Rock-solid data with no room for mistakes.

OK, imagine, if you will (and you will because you can) ships full of Vikings. Can you see them? Good. Now, imagine the bluest, greenest, coolest, cleanest lights in the world. The Aurora Borealis. Yes, there you go. See ’em flicker and dance in the North sky? Like the light of God’s love.

Finnar and Sami saw those same lights, as they jumped onto the shore of Finnmork. And they were instantly hypnotized. And I mean actually hypnotized. Neither one of them could move a muscle. And none of their shipmates could even move them. In fact, the only parts that moved, on Finnar and Sami, were their eyes.

And their eyes followed each flickering dance of the lights of the Aurora Borealis. Sort of like the pendulum of a grandfather clock.

Only quicker.

Alright, here’s where the story gets a little blurry. Because some say Finnar and Sami never moved again. And they say the two of them eventually petrified into stony statues. But others tell another tale. And I tend to believe those others because they’re the older, wiser ones. THEY say Finnar and Sami were rescued by Angels of Light.

Apparently, the Angels of Light flew down and hovered just in front of Finnar and Sami’s faces and gently placed their hands over their eyes. And, as fate (or something even better) would have it, Finnar and Sami were immediately released from their hypnotic trance.

And, at the exact time, the Angels of Light disappeared.

The rest of the crew, and the crowd from town, cheered. And the two men were totally surprised by that reaction. Because they didn’t even realize they had been hypnotized.

I’m telling you, it was the craziest thing. Sadly, no one thought to record any of it on their phones or tablets. But don’t think too badly of them. Because those devices weren’t invented yet.

But that story was passed down for generations.

And everyone kept their own version of the story in their own hearts. That way they could explain to kids and grandkids how their beautiful homeland was named.

And, to this day, Finland is a place of beauty and wonder. With a positive reputation. The Northern Lights shine as brightly there as they ever did. In fact, if you get a chance to visit, be careful not to stare into them. You don’t want to end up like Finnar and Sami. Unless you enjoy a solid friendship with someone who’ll help you get free.

I’m just kiddin’. If you ever go there, stare as long as you like. And you could even enjoy some wonderful conversations, rhymes, and reasons, in the background, as you do. Because I received a very interesting email about your ol’ buddy, Tony. It said:

“I have some cool information that might interest you. Your podcast Rhyme and Reason with Tony Funderburk has good performance in Apple Podcasts rankings (last 30 days):

Position 68 in the category Christianity (Finland)
Position 164 in the category Religion & Spirituality (Finland)”

That was from a podcast monitoring service. And they send out notices when your podcast does well. So, who would’ve guessed. My Rhyme and Reason is enjoyed in the land of Finnar and Sami.

It all reminds me of a rhyme I wrote to go with a beautiful picture of the Northern Lights.

When Angels Sing

When angels sing from Finland skies,
Aurora Borealis eyes
Perceive a glass kaleidoscope
Of crystal lights lit up by Hope.
The angels send a message through
The frozen night of opaque blue
And bid the world to come behold
This place of peace, this crown of gold.
So, if you hear a rustling wing,
Be set to go when angels sing. © 2022

As you call it a day, today, be sure to thank the good Lord for angels, beautiful lights and colors, and most of all for Faith, Hope, and Love.

Then, jump on the The TRUTH. And join the growing band of believers who enjoy my books, daily rhymes, songs, and videos about the Rhyme and Reason and power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 11, 2024 by TonyAugust 11, 2024

Nothing more to say, so goodbye yesterday

It probably wasn’t on your radar. Nope. You probably weren’t wondering about my process for stringing words together to create the rhymes and reasons I share with you. So, when I say I started a 3-verse rhyme with the phrase “nothing more to say,” you roll your eyes. Or yawn. Or both.

But this morning I wondered, “What if there was nothing more to say?”

So, I did what I usually do when I wonder. I wrote it down. Typed it, to be completely accurate. Because I type 99% of what I write these days. And that’s because the vast majority of what I write has to end up on a digital page when it’s all said and done. So, why physically write it down when I’ll just have to type it down?

Anyway…

Let’s get back off that little rabbit trail.

Sometimes all I have to do to get started, on my blank page/screen, is write down that certain phrase or word. Then, it’s kinda like seeing it pulls the trigger to that rhyming section of my brain. Suddenly other words pop in to form the first thoughts. And then I can make sense of what the first line should be.

Once I have the first line, the second tends to slide in pretty quickly. And after a couple of lines I start to see where I need to go with the rhymes.

Yeah, that’s what happened in the wee hours this morning. And since this morning is a Sunday morning, it only seems reasonable that this rhyme for the day would point to the one, true, living, loving God. The One who spoke things into existence and created the seven days the whole world understands. So, here you go…

Nothing More To Say

As for yesterday, there’s nothing more to say,
Except what I will say, today.
I know there’s no way to change one yesterday,
So, I’m glad that I know The Way.

The Truth, The Life, in me, the One who made me free,
Has made sure I can see that He
Put eternity inside the heart of me,
And so I’ll be, eternally.

Glad for what’s ahead, because of what I’ve read
In God’s book where He clearly said
His son bore and bled and came back from the dead.
So hope replaces dread ahead. © 2024

Just so you know, I’ve got lots more to say. And as long as I remain on planet Earth, with the ability to type, or even speak, words onto a digital page, I’ll share why the world needs Jesus.

If you haven’t already, jump on the The TRUTH. And join the growing band of believers who enjoy my books, daily rhymes, songs, and videos about the Rhyme and Reason and power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 10, 2024 by TonyAugust 10, 2024

A little night music, please, with familiar melodies

“Maestro, a little night music, please.”

And with that one command/request, the young songwriter retreated to his chamber to compose himself. Oh yeah, and also to compose the music.

By some accounts it was a warm summer night in Vienna. And as Wolfie sat at his desk he could hear people enjoying themselves in the streets below the window of his room. But somehow he managed to tune them out and tune into his own thoughts and imagination.

The command had been for “a little night music.”

But he was too awake to compose a simple lullaby. And certainly not on demand. The revelry outside and the flickering of the candle shadows on the wall was just too much movement to be ignored.

So, sure enough, Wolfie quickly dipped his quill into the inkwell. And just as quickly, he started to dash out a flurry of eighth, sixteenth, and even thirty-second notes. He could hear the violins in his head. Smooth. And agile on the scale. With important things to say. So, naturally he wrote them a captivating conversation.

And even the sound of quill on the parchment inspired him to fill the page with that collection of notes he not only heard, but also saw in his head. In fact, he started to feel as though the notes wrote themselves. As if he was just a conduit. The method for how the ink made it from the well to the page.

Then, as Wolfie approached the second movement, a gentle Romanze, he decided to capture the quiet intimacy of a moonlit garden. A place where lovers wandered. And where sometimes cads and rogues whispered sweet nothings into the accommodating ears of young maidens.

Then, he composed the Menuetto.

It was inspired by the spirited dances he had seen at court. And he made sure to give it an elegant appeal.

Ironically, Wolfie completed the night music, at the break of dawn, with what’s known as his jubilant Rondo. And since his home was in Prague (and because of the command he’d received) he called his new composition “Eine Kleine Nachtmusik.”

And that all happened on this day, August 10, back in 1787. Of course, you no doubt already realize that Wolfie is Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

Just so you know, this is my own fictional account. But I feel certain it all happened exactly the way I described. Because of the songwriter’s connection code. I don’t wanna bore you with how it works. Just know it works. And it’s probably divinely decreed. So, there’s nothing anyone can do to change it.

Anyway…

You know who’d love a little night music? Kids. And/or grandkids. No, they absolutely don’t know that they’d love it. And maybe you don’t even know it either. So, take my word for it. They’ll LUV it. Especially if you play it in the background as they read (or you read to them) the Ginormous Humongous Tremendous Book of Rhymes And Bedtime Stories for Kids. Get yours in the https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/rhyme-and-reason-bookshop

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 9, 2024 by TonyAugust 9, 2024

Write bright or write right? It's right to write bright.

Oliver Treze was born to write bright. And that was his answer when anyone asked what he did for a living. He’d smile a quarter smile and reply, “I write bright.”

So, every morning, he sat in the shade of olive trees to write bright words.

Words to wake the whimsy. Words to wake the joy.
All for flights of fancy. Words he could employ
To work his own magic, filled with opal light.
Nothing dark and tragic. No, he must write bright!

Maybe you noticed a kohwinkydink already. Did you catch it? Here’s a hint.

When Oliver Treze did his bright writing, he sat in the shade of olive trees.

Get it? Oliver Treze under the olive trees.

Yeah, ain’t it grand how kohwinkydinks pop up a lot of times when you least expect them? And ain’t it grand when they can give you a sort of magical aura brain massage? Yeah, those things are grand. Too bad most adults don’t even pick up on ’em.

Because if they could tune in to kohwinkydinks and dilly dally for even a few minutes, they might get to enjoy a whole ‘nother world. And I’m talkin’ about a world where trees talk to the stars. And where daydreams play Red Rover with Night Dreams.

But Oliver Treze never worried about what adults might or might not see.

Because he had millions of ideas swirling around in his head. And he knew if he worried about what anybody could or couldn’t see, that took away from bright writing time.

And that was time he was NOT willing to waste.

So, Oliver wrote. And wrote. And sometimes he’d stop to eat or sleep. But after that he wrote some more. And anyone who walked by would never imagine all the wondrous words that flowed out of his head into his pen. Or sometimes he’d take his trusty techie tablet and type a tapestry or two or three. Or thirty-three.

That’s how it was when, in one day, he wrote about two hundred pages. It was a ginormous, humongous, tremendous amount of poems. I happened to be sitting nearby just as he finished for the day. And the oddest thing happened. Oliver started to fade away.

I started to ask if there was something I could do to help. But he held up his hand to motion for me to come closer. So, I did.

And in a faint voice he said,

“I had to write bright.
But I wrote out my own light.
So, I know it’s right
That you take these words tonight.
Add them to the book
That I have here. Take a look.
Turn it into fun.
Do this for me. I…am…done.”

And, with those last three words, he faded away completely. With a quarter smile on his face.

So, I looked down at the last bright writing he did. And here’s what I saw…

Woods Of Wonder

Walking in the woods of wonder…
Leaping off a limb of lights…
Slipping down a secret Scots pine…
Kiwi trees are flying kites.
All around are dancing Aspens…
With their white and wondrous wings…
Bristling branches and sweet breezes…
Where a speckled sparrow sings.

There’s more to the poem. But to see Oliver’s very last lines, you’ll need to beam over to the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop and get your own downloadable copy of:

Ginormous Humongous Tremendous Book of Poems and Bedtime Stories for Kids

Stay tuned…

Posted on August 8, 2024 by TonyAugust 8, 2024

Drawing and coloring art into the digital part

Theo loved drawing and coloring from the moment he could hold a crayon. And his bedroom walls were papered with creations straight out of his wild imagination. Just about every other day he’d ask his mom or dad to get him some more drawing paper, crayons, and pencils.

His parents chose to encourage his drawing and coloring.

So, more often than not, they’d be sure to provide Theo with his supplies. After all, since it obviously wasn’t a passing phase, they knew the supplies could help train him up in the way he should go. Of course, they knew they’d have to show Theo how to stay within a budget and make his supplies last. Thankfully he understood that his mom and dad loved him. So, he never whined when they had to say no. Which wasn’t often.

Early one sunny Saturday morning, Theo showed his latest art to his tech-savvy older sister, Lena.

“Hey, Lena. Check it out. What do you think of my drawing of this city built into a mountain side? Pretty cool, huh?” And he handed her the paper. Lena look up from her iPad and sort of nodded, “Uh-huh.”

“You didn’t even really look. C’mon. I’d like to know what you think,” Theo pleaded.

So, Lena knew that tone in his voice. And she knew he wouldn’t let up until she really looked at his drawing.

“OK, give it here,” she said.

And she saw it was really good. She liked it. Yeah, Theo was most definitely good at drawing and coloring.

But then, Lena had an idea.

“Hey, you know what? You should try something really different. And I think you’ll like it a lot. Wanna know what it is?”

“Uh, yeah. I guess so. What is it?” Theo asked.

And Lena showed him a drawing and coloring app on her iPad.

“Oh, yuck,” he said. “I don’t wanna draw on some slick screen with a fake pencil.”

But Lena showed him a screen cover she used when she took notes for school. And it made the slick surface of the iPad screen feel more like paper.

“Here. Feel it,” she insisted.

At first, Theo thought it just felt weird. Not at all like the texture of his sketch paper. But then Lena handed him her digital pencil and let him try it out. After just a few stroked he started to get the hang of it. Then Lena showed him how he could work with layers, tons of digital brushes, and colors that never ran out.

Theo was hooked.

So, I’m sure you can guess what he asked his parents for next. Right? Yep. His own iPad. But they worked out a deal with him to be sure he eventually paid for it himself. That way he’d appreciate the value of ownership.

Once he got his hands on his own iPad, it almost became a part of him. Everywhere he went, the tablet was always with him. Because he didn’t want anything to stop him from drawing and coloring at a moment’s notice.

Then, Lena showed Theo where he could watch online lessons. And where he could learn even way more about the world of digital art. He soaked it up. And little by little he figured out more and more of the almost unlimited possibilities of creating art on a tablet. He loved how he could wipe out mistakes with a tap, blend colors and undo them if they weren’t right, and experiment without ever running out of paper.

And, sure, I could tell you more about the story of Theo and his digital art. But I’m sure you’d like to work on your own. Or, if you’re the parent or grandparent of kids like Theo, you’d like to be encouraging like his parents.

So, start ’em off right.

With a big bang at the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop. And I’ll let you in a little secret. I just added a book so big, so full of pages for drawing and coloring, that you’d have to spend a bunch of dough to get in a paperback. But if you’ve got access to an iPad, boy oh boy can you save a TON!

Go to the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop and look for the book with the long title and lots of colorful pictures. Click on that picture and you can download over 200 pages of drawing and coloring and rhymes. And forget about paying those crazy prices on that site named after a Brazilian river.

Stick with me and we’ll enjoy the pure river of water of Life.

Stay tuned,

Posted on August 7, 2024 by TonyAugust 7, 2024

If you’ve never met the Icle family, you’e certainly missed out on a special treat. First, there’s Grandpa Icle. But most people know him as Pops. Then there’s Uncle Bice Icle. And cousin Trice Icle. Then, there’s King Lear Icle. At least that’s what the rest of the family call Leero. Because he walks around the house quoting Shakespeare at the oddest times. But my favorite of them all is Auntie Whims Icle. I absolutely LUV her whimsical art. And she paints something new literally every day.

And her whimsical art flies from her whimsical heart.

That’s just the who she is.

For example, you notice I said her whimsical art “flies” from her heart. Right? Well, most people would probably say it flows from her heart. But Auntie Whims Icle would just say, “That’s not how I’m made.”

And I remember, on more than one occasion, how she’d say she could no more hold her paintings inside her than you and I could defy gravity. She’d say her art flew out of her heart, into the paint, swirled around, leaped onto her brush, and lifted her hand to the canvas. And she became its willing accomplice to the process.

Yeah, I found myself thinking about the Icle family this morning. And I wasn’t quite sure why. Then, I realized it’s Wednesday. And you know what Wednesday is. No, silly, not the dreadful “hump day.” It’s Whimsical.

So, naturally I thought about the poem, Whimsical Wednesday, I wrote a few years ago. And I thought about how it’s included in a jam-packed book of rhymes and stories. Here’s a sample:

Whimsical Wednesday tickles the tongue,
Lilting and loving, keeping us young.

Now, don’t be a negative Nancy Not Icle. Just jump on over to the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop and watch for the release of the “Ginormous Humongous Tremendous Book of Poems and Short Bedtime Stories for Kids.” It’s enormous I tell ya. With tons of words and whimsical art. And tons of space for drawing.

And, for the first time, it’ll be a much more affordable downloadable book. You should see what the physical book costs on Amazon. Yikes! On second thought, no you shouldn’t. So, don’t go to this LINK. Instead, go to the following link and download a copy in the Rhyme and Reason Bookshop ASAP. (that means right away)

Stay tuned…