Do these sound like masculine traits? Decisiveness, assertiveness, and confidence? I think they certainly SHOULD sound like masculine traits. And I believe those traits can be instilled into boys in ways that help them develop leadership skills. Let me ask you this? Do you think that’s happening in America these days? I don’t. At least not as a rule. Only as the exception. The … The rest of the story…
Category Archives: Tony Funderburk
“They” say if you’re gonna write Bible stories for kids, then those stories should be adapted to their ability to understand. I agree. To a degree. Because I also believe Bible stories for kids can entertain with facts. But what do I know. I never had kids. So, I have nothing to go by. Wait a sec. Believe it or not, once upon a … The rest of the story…
Here’s a little more sharp talk for ya. And, just so you know, I’m not a Greek expert. Actually not even a Greek amateur. But there are some who dig more deeply into Greek translation to get a better understanding of what different parts of the Bible mean. Here’s an example of that, from Ronald Giese Jr., using the word “sharpen.” “This is how … The rest of the story…
The number 9 took on a whole new value for me this morning. Hopefully you’ll find this so fascinating you’ll say, “Wow, Tony. It’s amazing how well you entertain us with your knowledge of insignificant and trivial things.” Well, hopefully the number 9 will keep you in that state of awe. Did you know, for example, that the number 9 always retains its identity? … The rest of the story…
35 years ago, today. That’s when my beautiful Elgielene became my wife. We zoomed up high in the Denver, Colorado skyline (for real) and shared our vows to stay together through come-what-may. Then, lo and behold, we’ve done it. And when I say we’ve been through some amazing things together, it’s no exaggeration. Those amazing things included 2 years of living together “on the … The rest of the story…
“Iron Sharpens Iron” is just about 99.99% always used as a positive expression. Christians, especially men, love to use it as though it’s a good thing to do to/for a friend or colleague to “help” them get closer to the true meaning of scripture. And I believe it’s a good thing to sharpen your understanding of God’s word. Even more important than how you … The rest of the story…
Years ago I wrote about the reality of love. And this is another take on that message… Love needs consistent care and attention. It doesn’t have a “one-size-fits-all” option like some gloves do. In fact, you’ll discover, over the course of your life, how your love can go through many changes. Young love, for example, is full of emotional passion. And it’s too often … The rest of the story…
I like the way you walk. Well, say that you’ll be true. Well, say that you’ll be mine. If you’ve been around long enough to recognize those three sentences, you’re (shall we say) not exactly a young person. Or you could be a young person who’s into vintage swamp rock. Yeah, you read that right. Swamp rock. And swamp rock didn’t originate in the … The rest of the story…
Emotional Resilience. That’s what they called it. And they followed up the name with this description: Encouraging boys to embrace aspects of traditional masculinity, like stoicism and fortitude, can foster emotional resilience. And this doesn’t mean to suppress emotions. But learn to handle emotions in a way that prepares them for life’s challenges. Boys can grow up to be men who are less likely … The rest of the story…
Here’s something I didn’t learn from my Dad: It’s important that certain traits are taught alongside empathy. Because they foster respect for all genders and emotional intelligence which helps ensure that masculinity is not reduced to harmful stereotypes. And that can encourage a spectrum of positive attributes that can benefit everyone. So, what do you think of me now? Surprised by the respect for … The rest of the story…
OK, this is only for the guys. And I mean the real guys. Guys who are men. And men who understand the importance of being men. If you fit this category and criteria, then this is a public service message you need to take to heart and practice for the rest of your days. Five simple words. Forget about Valentine’s Day 2025. And not … The rest of the story…
Faith over fear. Make that your motto. Your creed. Or the sticky note you put on your computer. Whatever works. Here’s one reason, I found in an article, about why it’s a good idea: Because faith over fear Promotes Positive Action Over Paralysis Hmm…sounds a little psychoanalytical. But here’s the rest of what they said: “Faith encourages proactive behavior and resilience. When people have … The rest of the story…
February days have been a bit tricky, so far, here in the heart of the Heartland. Only a few days ago people walked in and out of stores in t-shirts and shorts. But for three days in a row, it’s been like Don Mclean sang, But February made me shiver with every paper I’d deliver. As I stood at the post office counter, yesterday, … The rest of the story…
Imagine you’re hired for a new job. The company has a reputation for getting a lot done. And you’re fine with that. Because you know it means you won’t be bored. But then they hand you your itinerary for the first week. They tell you to assemble this list of products before the end of the day on Saturday. Heavens Earth Sea Light (that … The rest of the story…
Ipecac. No, I’m not talking about the story of the headless horseman. I’m talking about syrup. And this ain’t from Aunt Jemima or even Cousin T’s. Ipecac syrup is some kinda tough stuff. In fact, ipecac is what they use in medical situations (poisonings, etc.) to induce vomiting. So, obviously it’s not something your body needs or wants. And yet, would you believe people … The rest of the story…
Here’s the three-step process a hypocrite uses to become one. Point finger. Say stuff. Play the sound of their own voice back in their head. Now. Who’s ready to start with step one? Point finger. Hmm. I see no hands raised. And, as Martha Steward used to say, that’s a good thing. Because I know you’re like me. We’ve all certainly done things, in … The rest of the story…
Regardless of what happens today, this weekend, or ever, hold on to the Truth. And just in case you didn’t catch it (but I bet you did), I capitalized the word, Truth. And I just did it again. Because I’m not talking about the truth that can be so manipulated in this world filled with lies and AI’s. It’s crucial to hold on to … The rest of the story…
Imagine yourself walking up to two big doors one cold morning in January. The door on the left is pure craftsmanship. It’s a rich, cobalt blue with pure silver handles and hinges. There’s a leaded crystal, mirrored window just high enough that you can only see the top of your head. The door on the right appears to be made of old, cracked, and … The rest of the story…
The system that runs X.com (formerly known as Twitter) acknowledges an increase in “Rage Bait” posts there. Here’s what they say: “There’s a noticeable presence of posts designed to incite anger or controversy, often referred to as “rage bait,” which can lead to negative interactions and a less enjoyable platform experience.” Wow. People create “Rage bait” posts on X just to make people mad. … The rest of the story…
Some say chromium health benefits are measurable. Others say no. Yeah, it’s just like everything else these days. Tons of evidence why something’s good for you. And tons of evidence against it. The FDA says this about chromium health benefits: “One small study suggests that chromium picolinate may reduce the risk of insulin resistance, and therefore possibly may reduce the risk of type 2 … The rest of the story…