As the choir gently neared the end of the beloved hymn “Praise to the Man” the camera focused on a familiar face singing with the choir. David Archuleta. A collective gasp arose from the viewing audience. At least in my house. My guess is that had Moroni shown up at the Conference Center with his trumpet, some people would have asked, “Who’s the guy in the robe here to accompany David Archuleta?”
I like David Archuleta. Haven’t purchased any of his music, but I recognize that he is really talented. Yet I cringed when I saw him on the screen. My first thought was “that was a carefully orchestrated PR move. Glad they waited until the end.” I just hope everyone remembered which “man” we were “praising”.
Later that afternoon I was talking to my sons, as we drove to watch the priesthood session. Their response surprised me – they thought it was so cool! They were honestly excited. One of those sons will be entering the MTC while Elder Archuleta is still there.
I was still a little cynical, but didn’t share it – because I don’t judge anymore. (Effective 3/31/12)
While I was sitting in the darkened chapel watching the conference, I hit me hard:
A change of heart.
I looked back at some things that I have seen in my lifetime, and started to gain a strong appreciation for what I had seen earlier in the day.
Before President Uchtdorf’s talk, back when I was more judgmental, I probably would have said something like this:
“All of my life I have seen seekers of fame and fortune – mostly athletes – being lauded by church members for chasing fame and fortune – just because they are LDS. I don’t get it – never have. But everybody sure gets excited about it. Many fans will say ‘but they do so much missionary work being in the public eye‘. Maybe, but where is the sacrifice? They aren’t walking away from fame and fortune, they are embracing it, and then might leverage it to do good works. Isn’t that backwards? Besides, why are we so desperate to have LDS idols that we would settle for them?”
However, since President Uchtdorf set me straight on Saturday, I would never think or say anything like that anymore. Now I would just say, “Everyone has to make their own decisions, it isn’t for me to judge.”
But…is praise judgment? Can I pass positive judgment on another? I hope so, because here it goes…
I am so impressed that this young man would be willing to humbly walk away from fame and fortune to do as the Lord has asked. He is willing to sacrifice to serve. The more I think about it, the more I love him for his example to my sons, and all the young men I have worked with in the church. The power of his example should not be under-estimated.
Yes, the directors of the broadcast did manage to smoothly squeeze him into the frame at the end of the song – and I DO have a problem with that. Why?
Because I wish they had had him sing in General Conference.
I wish they had publicized it in advance. With TV commercials.
I wish they had asked him to speak in the priesthood session.
I wish he could have given a talk, explaining to my boys, and the boys of the church, why he chose to serve a mission.
This dad wants his sons to see what humble sacrifice can look like.
Color me impressed.
Thank you, Elder Archuleta, and Godspeed.
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To anyone interested, I think it’s great to buy David’s music to give a loud message to the music industry that there’s appreciation and a market for decent music in the world today. By decent I mean good in its content. Please, may I suggest if David’s music isn’t your style, purchase it and donate it. There’s a site called David Without Boarders that connects people who can’t afford CDs with people willing to donate them. People the world over have given and received. I think it’s a beautiful testimony to sharing one’s goods. Furthermore, you could contact a fan site such as Fans of David or Fanscene and let them know you would like to donate some of David’s music. Such sites will have some kind of fun contest and give the CD to the winner(s) or give it to someone they know who would like to have it but doesn’t have the money. Another bonus of this type of sharing is that it abates the temptation to pirate material.
Love this for SO many reasons…..mostly because it’s about David, but there are plenty of other goodies in it too! Like not being judgmental effective 3/31, haha, I am SO using that! 😀 I love your style, I’m gonna have to check out some of your other posts and I think I’ll add you to Google Reader (you should consider that an honor, cuz it is reserved for blogs from people I know, David’s twitter, David’s Official Site, David’s fansites, and Stephanie Nielsen’s blog). 😀
I really hope that while he is on his mission he gets to be Elder Archuleta and not Elder American Idol.
True. But I also hope he won’t shy away from using his talent in the mission field to share the gospel.
My guess is that David will sing anytime they let him in the mission field. I have heard that he sings to himself all the time. He seems to be more at ease singing than he is at talking. Of course, he will learn much about communicating while on his mission. This mission is a good thing for David… any way you look at it. I’m happy for him.
I meant more like I hope all the girls in the places he serves in won’t follow him around giggling and wanting autographs, and that the paparazzi don’t follow him around trying to take his photo. I know he will take opportunities to sing! I am a mediocre singer at best, and I took every opportunity to sing on my mission. It brings an amazing spirit to the work!!
Same here! I absolutely love this post. I am not an Archuleta fan. I mean, I know he sings. Very nicely. Nothing against him–I just don’t have time or interest in American Idol. But I tell you what, I saw that video clip on a friend’s blog of him announcing his intention to serve a mission, and I sat there bawling. And I’m a fan now. I love the effect that it has on the youth (I’m in YW, hubby in YM), and I know they pay attention. That he can walk away from fame and fortune, that he has a testimony like that, and character… I’m with you — “Color me impressed. Thank you, Elder Archuleta. Godspeed.”
JWW
Great post. I found him so humble standing there with all the other choir members when he has been used to solo performances. My 9 year old son made me pause the DVR so he could get a good look at David’s name tag. He was so impressed. I am grateful for David’s example to my son as well. COOL KIDS SERVE MISSIONS!
David who? Just kidding.
I did not know he would be in the choir because I did not realize he is at the MTC right now. I was selfishly watching for my own son, who also showed up near the end of the hymn.
Whoever said choirs are usually arranged from short to tall is correct. That put David on the front row and my son on the back row. And those two rows are the hardest to capture on camera in a good television broadcast.
However, the director does realize that there are a dozen family and friends watching for each member of the choir, and he makes every effort to include each choir member in at least one recognizable camera shot during the conference session.
I think they did it just right.
I believe the comments suggesting that you buy David’s music was not meant as a way to support him economically, but to better understand the positive messages that he sings about. This is how his music has touched my soul since the beginning with “Imagine.” And yes, I totally believe that while David is on his mission, and especially in the MTC, he does not want to be in the limelight and just wants to blend in with the others.
Just to emphasize, David was NOT dropped from Jive. He was asked to return, but He was the one to decline. He clearified this in a vlog. I believe David, not TMZ or other gossip articles.
Before I start I need to admit that I don’t own any of his music. It isn’t really my speed, except maybe the Christmas gig. That said, I agree with Anon about the purpose of buying his music. If I did, it wouldn’t be because of his serving, it would be to reward goodness in the media. If good music and movies do well financially, one hopes that it would encourage creators to create more positive content. If money talks, then we should make ours speak for good. So, tongue in cheek, I will get pirated BNL music but pay for David Archuleta or Relient K. 😉
Thanks Tonya: I’m glad the pirated music comment was just tongue in cheek. (wink, wink.)
Haha, I’m loving it Tonya!
And you know what….I would venture to guess that many fans of David who buy his music, don’t love every song he produces. But they believe in his talent and in him as a person and are willing to support him in anticipation, of him finding his musical style. He has not had a smooth road towards finding his sound. His first two pop albums actually reflect a lot of push and pulling that has been going on in the background with Jive. 2011 saw him break with Jive and take time to reflect on what sort of music came out of him when he was left to create without the pressures. While we are yet to discover what that is (because he is now serving a mission) the cover songs he has done over the last year have been quite mature sounding. So we will wait and see what he evolves into….but keep your eye out in the future….he may end up pleasantly surprising a few people with what sound he eventually settles with.
I have a couple of things to say. (Big surprise, right?). David’s family is in my sister’s stake. My niece has been his biggest fan since before he went on Idol. She says he was always nice to everyone and refused to date until he was 16. Despite all this, I was disappointed to see that he apparently wasn’t going to serve a mission. I’m pretty black and white on that too. Remember that story about the rugby player in New Zealand that served anyway? It was mentioned in Priesthood session a few conferences ago.
Secondly, I know from personal experience that they pretty much only let people into those missionary choirs from the MTC when they’ve had college choir experience. So somebody gave Elder Archuleta some special treatment. I don’t think it was a coincidence he was in the front row. I think they should have showed him more. If you pulled strings to get him into the choir, then you should make the most of it.
Finally, I bet this gets the most comments of any on MMM’s blog.
It’s possible that they waived the college choir requirement for a professional singer who has been the guest soloist for the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.
Like I said: special treatment. Pop singing doesn’t help much in a choir setting. I don’t think he can even read music. Before I start getting flamed in the comments, let me just say that I would have put him in that choir too. However I would have given him some additional special treatment and had the cameras show him more.
Lets not kid ourselves here. Of course they pulled strings to get him into the choir and strategically waited till the last moment of conference to zoom in on him. Are the majority of people happy that they did? Seems so on both accounts.
Vatermann: It probably will get the most comments ever. Sigh.
Not if you post about David Archuleta again, it won’t! lol
You’ve discovered the golden ticket to getting hits – you should be happy.
And since I’ve contributed my own fair share of comments towards making you miserable, I’ll stop spamming ya now.
(All said tongue in cheek of course. It’s been fun. Thanks for having me.)
Depending on which Anonymous commenter you are, your comments may have added to the discussion – so thanks for participating!
Just a comment: He does read music. 😉
xoxo
Well as from this time stamp, every comment by ‘Anon’ is me. So yeah…I’ve been talkative. lol
Signed: Shanny in Australia.
That should say… “Well previous to this time stamp….”
Ok, I withdraw my claim that he can’t read music. I remember now that he was in his Jr. High School choir, and I believe he plays the piano. However, the MTC choir would have been rehearsing the songs before Archuleta even got to the MTC, so some strings were definitely pulled to get him in. As far as seating the shortest in front, that may be true but with tiered seating, it’s not much of an issue. At the end of the day, he’s setting a great example by serving a mission, and I’m glad for the positive impact he’s having on youth everywhere.
Maybe it was the Church leaders that requested David be put in the MTC choir since they knew he would be there. He was probably given the music before he got there like they did for Motab.
I’m sure it wasn’t David who Pulled strings. That just is not him.
Because of him I watched and also listened to the sessions Sat p.m. and Sunday. some of the sessions spoke directly to jealousy and envy and I read at least one Missionary have a change of heart after hearing the session. It appears that it was a blessing and provided some teachings lessons. I’m not LDS and have been an Inspired fan for over 4 years.
I sang in a women’s choir a couple years ago for the Women’s Conference and they did line you up according to height. But I don’t think it was an accident that the camera didn’t show him until the last moment…so as not to distract.
Surprised it hasn’t been mentioned all of the charity work David has been involved in. Invisible Children, Leprosy Colonies visit, child fund, etc…
David was in Chorus in High School!! He has sang professionally over 4 years. He has also done firesides in many cities worldwide and visited more Temples than many in his church. He himself has never reported this himself. Usually it leaks from Church members that saw him.
That being said, LDS church members have been very respectful of David and may mention him on a Blog or a brief mention on Twitter.
Mmm, if I were you i’d remove number four as fast as I could! The wrath of a woman scorned pales in comparison to the wrath of the Archies, let me tell ya! lol
As for the ‘being paid for obedience’ thing….my encouragements to buy his music were half serious and half teasing. But the more important issue is…I don’t encourage you to do it in order to reward David for being obedient but to promote the good examples in this world. Big difference there. If you don’t want to dole out the dollars – fine. No big deal, spread a little goodness around some other way.
I’m leaving it in. But I’m counting on you to defend me.
Haha, well i’ll do my best…but just always keep in the back of your mind that I’m an Archie too! 😉 lol
I think I need to make a few comments, as this has sure gotten more attention than I ever planned:
1) If this is your first time visiting my blog, you will see that I am opinionated.
2) I know David’s music. I followed him on American Idol, and enjoyed him a lot. (But I was glad David Cook won.) I think he is very talented, but he doesn’t “speak” to me. Sorry! 🙂
2) I see absolutely no link between being happy that he is serving a mission and being encouraged to buy his music to show our support. We tend not to ask each other reward each other financially for being obedient, so please don’t do that here.
3) Some of the commenter’s stories about how David impacted their lives were truly touching. I appreciate you sharing them.
4) David was dropped form Jive Records last year because his 2nd album sold so poorly – it wasn’t his choice. (Sorry again)
5) I think Julee wins the “Biggest Fan” award for today.
6) Sue nailed it: I’m proud of ALL of those missionaries.
Oh, contraire, regarding #4. David was offered a new deal with Jive, which he did not accept. This transpired as album #2 dropped, which resulted in Jive not promoting the album, and the resulting low sales.
David was not dropped from Jive!! as falsely reported. He decided against signing another contract. It was a mutual agreement. He completed the contract he has signed. Now we know why he did not wish to sign another contract. Jive ended up folding!!
Heidi and Anonymous: Thanks for clarifying the Jive deal.
David’s blog explains his decision to discontinue his relationship with Jive. He said they offered him another contract but he said he wasn’t happy working with them. We know why. In the flashy pop business, they tried to turn him into someone he’s not. Also, there was a rumor that Jive would disappear in the business.
Wow . . . it’s a good thing I read your blog, because — not being a big American Idol fan — I would have totally missed the whole David Archuleta excitement . . . He certainly sounds like a fine young man, and I am thrilled with ANY young (or old) man or woman who finds the inner strength to make the sacrifice to serve the Lord full time at any point in their life. Good luck, David!
I may have also been a little distracted by the young man three rows behind and over three seats from David, since I know Ernie Wernermeyer much better than David (that I know almost nothing about). He is a famous-around-here bird caller that can recreate with AMAZING clarity the songs of dozens of different birds . . . I imagine that the birds (and investigators) in central Wisconsin are in for a REAL treat for the next two years, as HE serves the Lord faithfully in HIS assigned field . . . Now THERE is a sacrifice worthy of commendation . . . Imagine giving up the adulation of THOUSANDS of our winged friends, and DOZENS of neighborhood kids, to go knock on doors and try to share the gospel of Jesus Christ . . .
Amazing stories behind EACH of those missionaries . . . and I am proud as heck of ALL of them . . . =o)
David did say, when asked about the sacrifice he was making, that he was no different than anyone else who was going. He said that everyone makes a sacrifice to go on a mission and leave family and friends, etc. David doesn’t put himself on a pedestal at all. We, his fans, do that.
I would also add to Anonymous’ comment …., that just like was mentioned in conference…when someone else is praised it does not diminish our worth. Just because we are talking about David Archuleta doesn’t mean we don’t recognise the sacrifices that many people in this world make. No-one needs to feel bad because David is being praised. He sure has had more than his fair share of undeserved criticism too.
Great point Anon – and way to pull a fresh conference quote out and use it -after only a few days!
I hope you don’t mind your link posted here( http://thevoicedavidarchuleta.com/2012/04/02/gathered-together-by-david-archuleta-what-am-i-afraid-of/ ) brought me to this site.
Your words brought me to tears. I wasn’t sure where you were going at the beginning lol David’s voice caught my attention at his audition on idol and as the show progressed I noticed what a unique individual he was and never having been a fan before of anyone, David’s personality and humility made me one along with his incomparable voice. I didn’t know he was LDS at first and even though I’m not I want to say that it doesn’t matter. I have no intentions of becoming LDS but David has been an inspiration to me by example on how to live by faith irregardless of religion. I know many in my same situation. So yes because of David many have become LDS or have become active but it doesn’t stop there. His influence has no boundries. I traveled from So Cali to see David perform with MOTab. While waiting in line I spoke to many of his same faith and was saddened by the lack of enthusiasm and actual disappointment by many. It surprised me since David had already done so much everywhere he traveled not only sing his heart out but attending church, doing firesides, visiting hospitals, so many things we’re not aware of all while honing his skills as a performer.
So I’m glad you’ve come around and hoping many more do. If you haven’t heard his music please check it out and buy 🙂
djafan
So, MMM, I’m so glad that you had a change of heart. You had the hair on my back standing in defense there for a minute! lol Please allow yourself some time to hear some David Archuleta music. His 2 Christmas albums are exquisite, and The Other Side of Down has some serious thought provoking songs on it. (I would be more than willing to gift to you if you need it)
And, I’m so glad that we had that conference talks that we did. I think alot of us have been hit square in the heart with some of them in particular.
Mmm, loved your post. Some of the earlier comments made me sad though. I used to be one of those black and white people who would think that when a young man turned 19 there was only one place he should be and that was on a mission. But David taught me that – yes as you talked about – I should not presume to judge. Long before we all squealed over him standing there in his missionary badge, I came to admire how deeply spiritual David Archuleta is. I came to understand that David always seeks to do the will of his Father in Heaven and because of that knowledge I knew that if he decided not to serve a mission then it was the right thing, just as I knew when he decided to serve a mission that it was the right thing despite the lamentations of thousands of fans who thought he was giving up his career and they couldn’t bear to live without his light in their lives. If we want more role models like him, then please do as Momjulee suggested and purchase some of his music today. The Other Side Of Down is an album filled with positive message songs, his Christmas album contains no meaningless fluff and of course his Glad Christmas Tidings he did with MoTab is something very special. So often I have been saddened that more LDS people don’t support his career. We are supposed to support and defend all that is good in the world. In a a world and specifically an industry that is riddled with bad examples, we should stop being apathetic and start cheering and supporting those who live with moral courage. That is David. So yes, please go and buy some of his music today and tell all your friends to do the same.
And in case you’re wondering…no I am not David’s financial advisor lol, just another LDS fan, living here in Australia who thinks David is awesome and your blog post was enjoyable. So thanks. 🙂
*like* your comment….as I sit here listening to his new cd recorded in the Philippines in Feb. of this year…. and waiting ‘patiently’ for the new one due out later this year that was recorded last month during his missionary prep time. I find it too bad that he doesn’t get more support from the LDS neighborhood, and most especially from his home state. He is a role model that I would have loved to have had around for my children to follow.
I’m still one of those black and white kinda guys when it comes to missions..
But then, MMM, if you are one of ‘those’ kinda guys, you are running the risk of judging the young men who don’t go, for whatever reason. My two sons chose not to serve, for whatever reason, and they are both fine men, with fine families, and living good lives.
*just sayin’*
I have served with youth for most of my adult life. I love them. Because I love them, I desire that they young men be obedient. This includes serving a mission. I love them when they aren’t obedient too. Part of my job as bishop was to judge – just sayin’. Most were obedient, some were not. I still love those who didn’t serve – probably more than those who did serve, and will always hope that they will return to the church.
If your sons were able to forgo a mission, and still become endowed, sealed husbands and fathers, and retain their activity in the church, then I am thrilled for you – you have certainly been blessed more than most in that circumstance.
If I had sons I most definitely would be telling them to get their butts out there too. lol But my point was much more about how David has been unfairly judged in the past and LDS people should do more to support the good in this world. Have you downloaded your music yet and told your sons to do the same? 😉
And oh, by the way Be Still My Soul sung by David, and his testimony in his book “Chords of Strength” are what started me on my journey back to the church after being inactive for 8 years. He along with David Osmond (real long story behind both of them) are my missionaries. No doubt in my mind. Both of them encouraging me to go to church and genuinely happy when I told them I had returned to the church and was attending the temple. I think even David Archuleta isn’t aware of how many people who have joined the church, returned or are investigating. He is going to be an amazing missionary and I know in my heart God won’t let his talent be wasted for 2 years. I think that voice will touch more hearts and souls yet to come.
I completely agree, Nellie83(hi, there). David has been completely upfront, with all of us, for the last 4 years about his voice being a gift from God. His plans for life are to use it to reach people and better their lives—he’s done a dang good job so far.
I loved this. You had me going until the end, thought it was going to be a blog against David being in the choir. One thing some people aren’t aware is in 2010 when he sang with the MOTABS during their Christmas concert he had very few opportunities to practice with them. In Oct 2010 he had released his sophomore album and was travelling around with his management and label promoting it. Yet, David sounded as amazing as he did with not much practice with them. I’m sure though that he had the music and practiced on his own. One thing about David is his ability to pick up on music so quickly. My guess is though that the choir director approached him and asked him to join. I think he is an amazing example for young men trying to decide whether to serve a mission. I wish he could have spoke to but I was trying to remember a time when a full time Elder or sister missionary ever spoke at conference (maybe a couple??). Couldn’t think of one. Maybe it would be a thing to do after he returns so that he can also include some of his experiences from his mission. He really is sacrificing a lot, and other missionaries do too, but it really is an unpresidented situation. Thank you for your blog. Enjoyed it!!
I have no doubt that it works out just fine sometimes. Remember the context that this post was written in: A father, happy that his teenage sons have a positive role model regarding missionary service. That is what changed my heart and made me happy. Usually they are excited by the celebs who set the opposite example regarding full-time missionary service.
I also like teaching my children not to expect to be the “exception” to the rule. Any rule. Especially missionary service. The Lord has asked that “every worthy young man” serve a mission. There are exceptions, but I sure don’t want my boys looking to celebs as motivation to find out how to be the exception.
On Saturday afternoon, we were helping our son move from Idaho to Utah, so we were listening on the car radio. When I heard them announce that the choir was from the MTC, I remembered reading that Elder Archuleta had just entered the MTC on Weds, so I wondered aloud to my son who was driving if he would be in the choir. No way, said son, he just got there 3 days ago, when our other son was in the MTC over conference, you had to be practicing with the choir for weeks to be able to go to conference. Then, my daughter from Ohio texted us all that she had seen David in the choir, and we were all amazed, and could not wait til later that night when we got home to watch our DVR. But what I really want to say is this: In your blog you talked about famous LDS celebs who don’t go on missions because they are converting people just by their celebrity, and you were a little judgemental of their supposed lack of sacrifice…I admit to feeling the same way about the Osmonds back when I was a teenager and they weren’t going on missions. And then I met women, my age, who have been members of the church for years and raised their families in the church, and I found out that they had in fact joined the church because of the Osmonds! I wouldn’t have believed it if I hadn’t met real live people who really joined the church in Texas, Florida, California…because they heard Donny was LDS and investigated. So yeah, that does actually work out sometimes.
I believe fame really does work on its own and your example of Osmond shows that. But the difference between celebrities, one who decides not to go and the other to go is that Osmond, for example, kept the fame and money that didn’t bother his career. David is risking his fame and career with no income for 2 years. It’s a lot of sacrifice on his part.
That’s the beauty of what he has done. He is willing to sacrifice. Every young man that serves a mission sacrifices for two years. If he comes back, and nobody cares about his career anymore, he still made the right choice. It’ snot about “risk”, it is about obedience.
Thank you for your comment I actually joined the church 30 years ago because of the example of the Osmonds. I will forever be grateful. I may have left for a time but again a special spiritual singer (Elder Archulta) brought me back. One never knows when our hearts and souls will be touched and by whom. David once said it was important to him to be a good role model because you never know when someone is watching. Pretty smart thing for a then 17 year old to say. 🙂
It is amazing to see how young men all the time are always putting off time to serve the lord. I am a manager of a pool and I have sent off a missionary and about to send off two more. They are both so excited and I love seeing it in their eyes, even if I’m extremely sad that scheduling will be more difficult for them. Ian will enter the MTC next week and he specifically asked me to come to his farewell.
I love how you talked about your change of heart here and I posted a link on my facebook for any of my friends to see.
I have another take on it!!!! I attended a missionary mom’s reunion on March 30 and sat with two missionary mom’s who have a misisonary in the MTC and and would be singing at the same conference session. They were absolutely excited beyond belief that they would have an opportunity to see their missionary. Think about it. These mom’s, along with Elder Archuleta’s mother and family, will not be seeing him for two years. I thought how wonderful it was for Elder Archuleta’s family to see him one more time before he leaves the MTC for Chilie. For me it is not a PR moment, but a family moment.
I thought that too how wonderful for his family to get to see him one more time. Oh and by the way the youngmen and women around him their families had to be pretty excited too. :))
well I am a convert to the Church..almost 2 years now. the reason I investigated the church? because of David… I was a fan from the very begining of American Idol of his voice, I became a fan of him when he spoke. He had an unshakable faith in the Lord that I had never seen before and it wasn’t just in his words, but the way he lives his life. I was so impressed by that. I became interested in what this LDS church offered that nurtured a soul like David’s. So humble, so sweet, loving and caring to all those he meets. I began looking on line about Mormon’s and their beliefs. I was guided to General Conference 2 years ago by a friend who is LDS, and was blown away by the speakers,Esp Elder Holland. (and BTW, the LDS friends I have met..yep, all because of being a David fan :))) I asked another friend from Utah, that’s also LDS, about the church and a letter David had written to a fan about praying to our Heavenly Father. (yes, he does that often..any one who asks about his faith or the gospel in letter or in person recieves a hand written letter from David or a Book of Mormon…he carried a case of them on his tour bus BTW).. anyway, after I read that letter about praying and cried my eyes out, I e mailed my friend, ‘I want to read the Book of Mormon’ I want to know how to get a relationship like that with our Heavenly Father. That led to missionaries being sent to my home.. the rest is history. I joined, was baptized almost 2 years ago and I received my endowment last June, in Utah at the Jordan River Temple. I thank the Lord every day for bringing David into my life. It’s by His hand that David is an instrument. I have the utmost respect for him and I love him dearly. He is a gift to this world. His impact on other countries, esp Asian countries is phenominal. Many have investigated the church and joined.
Not only is David a role model for the youth but for us ‘older’ folks too. He is an example of how to live a Christ like life. He is really special and we as Latter Day Saints should promote him to all, because you just never know who’s life may be touched or changed. It’s through David’s music that he is touching lives, but it’s through our Heavenly Father’s hand that David was given this gift. Even if one doesn’t join the church, David is softening the hearts of many that never knew about LDS or who’s toughts about Mormon’s are so off. If you really want an idea of just who David is, the person, read his book called Chords of Strength.
anyway…I loved reading your blog..I’m so happy you had a change of heart. I apologize for this being so long, but I felt a promting to tell my story here.
Sister Chontos
McKeesport Branch, PA :))
Hee Hee – Hi S. Chontos! Love ‘ya!
Sister Chontos: Thanks so much for sharing your story – it was wonderful. I do hope you have it published somewhere better than my comment section!
Please find and friend me on Facebook, if you do that sort of thing!
If I could *like* comments on MMM’s blog, like one can on FaceBook, I’d *like* this one. 🙂
love your comment Sister Chontos..thank you for sharing, and I too would *like* this one. 🙂
Thanks for sharing your story Sister Chontos. Since Elder Archuleta has made such a positive difference in your life, I’m surprised you would share personal details about what he brings on his tour bus etc. online.
What surprises me is that anyone can read that beautiful story, and then fixate on the “grand revelation” that he keeps a box of Book of Mormons on the tour bus.
Really? Could you possibly be that shallow? I mean, with all the love in my heart, get a life!
I’m so sorry Anonymous.. I shouldn’t have said that.
but thank you MMM for that reply… I just thought it shows a small part of his character and deep faith, to those here that don’t follow him like a lot of us do. We are all supposed to be missionaries for the church. I myself have given out a few Books of Mormon to those who have asked or taken an interest in the LDS beliefs,but not many would hold an interest in that , I neither have a case of them or a tour bus 🙂
so on that note I’ll tell another little story..this one told to me by David’s dad.
And I was never told by him…’oh this is a secret, don’t tell anyone’..it came up in a conversation we had in PHX last year as we talked about my conversion and David’s affect on people. and it’s just that David or his family don’t go publishing stories like this just for PR..
anyway.. David was in the Philippines. (not this last trip, but the one before that).. a group of around 7 fans were gathered in the lobby, waiting for David’s ‘appearance’ after a show. David met with them and one asked him about his faith. David told them to ‘wait’ here. He ran up to his room and retreived serveral Books of Mormon and came back to the lobby where he, his dad and these fans read scriptures for the next couple hours.
It’s no secret that David loves to share the gospel with anyone who asks.
He just never goes boasting about what he does.
again I apologize if I said something that upset you. Sure would like to know who you are 🙂
Andrea C
BTW MMM requested ‘friends’ with you on facebook :))
Oh, and expect your blog hits to climb . . .
This will be long. Sorry. But you just stepped into my realm of expertise!
MMM, your post made me cry. My journey as an LDS fan of David in the last 4 years has been remarkable and miraculous for a variety of reasons it would take me 4 hours to explain. I was tweeting during General Conference and when the #ldsconf hashtag feed exploded as they panned on Elder A, I realized then something I should have expected – he just made a connection with every man, woman and child in the LDS community in a completely visceral way that he never could have and never did in the past 4 years.
I admit I felt a bit conflicted to hear everyone say how proud they were of him. I wanted to say “Wait!! I have been proud of him from Day 1. What are you guys talking about? You don’t even know all he has done!! How can you be proud of him now? And would you be as proud of him as I am even if he were still focusing on his career and not going on a mission? Be proud now, but only if you were proud before.”
Because it was your comments on judging that made me cry. David has been judged wrongly so frequently, first by some in the LDS community because he was not serving and now by some non-LDS fans because he is serving. Can we all just STOP IT please? I have been privileged to know exactly how many people he has touched and how many lives he has changed, including those many who have joined the church already because of his example. He is a remarkable human being, with or without a mission. And every person’s path is different. Why would I want to waste energy casting judgment on someone else’s choice when I have my own choices to worry about?
I, too, wished that he had 10 solos and at least 5 talks! PR move or not, however, I am as certain as I am of anything that the camera pan would have made him uncomfortable. I almost wondered if he told them in advance not to focus on him. He has never wanted to draw attention to himself in places where he should not be the focus.
One other point you hit right on: Sacrifice – he has said multiple times that his mission is about sacrifice. He knows exactly what he is giving up to serve. (I’ll try to embed his last vlog, although this is not the only time he has talked about sacrifice). He has always had his priorities in the right place. And yes, his example is extremely significant. I am not sure we have more than a tiny handful of people with his amount of celebrity who have given it all up to serve. He will be looked up to and admired for a long time because of this.
So, I have given up my proprietary rights to be proud of him, being so non-judgmental and all. Ya’ll enjoy the pride! I unequivocally AM proud of him for this decision. But I was proud of him before and will continue to be after. He deserves every bit of respect and support that he gets. I suggest everyone put their money where their mouth is and buy a song or two or an album or two of his TODAY to show your pride. 🙂
Final Vlog
Well said, momJulee. As a non-LDS fan, I respect his decision greatly and have felt proud of his words and deeds for the past 4 years.
And great idea, to purchase some songs or albums, as a sign of support!
Julee: “I saw him first!” loses its impact after Junior High School! I definitely admire your passion and protective Mama-Bear instincts.
Thanks for writing this for us to see a little deeper into what you have witnessed in your associations with him. I agree that there are relatively few who give up fame and fortune at his age. Usually they are older, wiser people who give up careers, etc. to serve.
(Also, do you see the irony in telling people to stop being judgmental?)
Thanks again!
Wait. Are you judging me? Am I judging you? I’m so confused!!
And I’m not sure ‘I saw him first’ was ever valid even in Jr. High, MMM! That was my honest first gut reaction, which as you can see, I readily gave up. Especially after the Laborers in the Vineyard talk. All are welcome to join the ranks of David pride, even if at the 11th hour. It says so in the scriptures. 🙂
Hysterical!
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Dude…yes, I said dude. Church PR dept? Not likely. Some guy in a broadcast truck.
My next door neighbor sang in the choir and my Jr. high choir director. I always watched for them. Being on T.V. is cool. My daughters’ 5th grade teacher also sang in the choir, I think it is the only reason she watched conference.
Either way, I’m glad you had a change of heart. I was disappointed when I saw a news story about his decision to serve a mission and they highlighted all the members who were famous but didn’t serve.
I highly doubt that the song Praise to the Man will ever be thought of about anyone but Joseph Smith.
But really, how do I know that you aren’t David A? 😉
Because he is currently busy learning Spanish.
I took my daughter and her friends to the Christmas concert in SLC when he announced that he would be serving a mission. We all stood there with tears running down our cheeks… it was an experience I, and my daughter, will never forget. I am so impressed with David… he is truly humble and good. I completely agree with you… how cool would it have been to have him sing and speak in Conference?
What a thoughtful post.
And I tend to be a bit of a cynic, too.[
But not anymore.
😉
It’s ok, MMM. I won’t judge you for your love/hate relationship with Archie… As it happens, I was the one who noticed him in our house. I thought it was pretty cool.
It’s great that he’s serving, and that he sang with the choir.
I agree, his Christmas album is wonderful; I listen to it year round. His version of Oh Holy Night never fails to bring me to tears and to my knees.
By the way.. awesome blog, middle-aged mormon man!
Agree too! His Christmas album is my all-time favorite Christmas album. It’s perfection.
As others have mentioned, David hadn’t stated that he wasn’t going to serve a mission; he simply wasn’t able to earlier. I don’t feel it’s our place to judge anyone’s decision to serve or not. We can’t know all of the reasons surrounding these decisions. I’m not LDS, but following David’s examples for the past several years has brought me closer to God and reminded me what’s important. In my humble opinion, this is His greater objective.
It’s probably best that they didn’t focus on David during the conference. In his last vlog, David asked that he be allowed his privacy in order to develop his relationship with God. I think he’d prefer to blend in, rather than stand out.
Oh, also, if David’s music isn’t your style, check out his Christmas from the Heart CD. I think it’s one everyone would love.
I’d like to add that I also support and respect his decision to serve, although I’m not LDS.
I do think it was planned, or at least that the camera probably avoided him until the end intentionally, and I can see why. They wouldn’t want to distract from the spirit of the conference. I think David bore his testimony just by being there, with that name tag on. I am glad for his example to the youth. I think it does speak volumes.
I also like that everytime I’ve seen him talk about his mission, he has been humble and clearly expresses that he doesn’t want it to be about him; that this is about the Lord. He told his fans that he wants this time to be about his relationship with God, and he has asked for his fans/friends/family to respect that.
What I think would be awesome, would be to see him doing youth firesides in a couple of years, once he’s home. Sharing his testimony and telling the youth why it was so important for him to serve; why it was worth giving up two years of fame and fortune. 🙂
It is my understanding that David has been doing firesides around the world during his travels/tours. I am sure it will continue once he returns from his mission.
My husband read that he does temple baptisms whenever he can as he travels as well.
David never changed his mind; he always wanted to do a mission but couldn’t before due to a record contract. He is an amazing young man and has already led at least 40 fans to the church. I’m not Mormon but he has been a very positive force in my life these past 4 years; he has been a wonderful example of a person who leads his life by always seeking the Lord’s guidance in all things. I Can only imagine how the next two years will impact on him and those he serves. He is a blessing to so many already, yet he is the personification of humility; can’t wait to find out. By the way, David has fans all over the world, including Chile, where he will be serving.
It brought me to tears, seeing him there as humble as always with his new missionary tag. He has always been an amazing example but now even more!!!
It was a beautiful move by the camera man but an even more beautiful move by David!! Love that boy..er Elder!
You’re making too much of this. People on the front row of the choir often show up on television broadcasts. David Archuleta being in the front row was not planned by the church PR department.
I disagree – the timing was impeccable, and I’m not a big believer in coincidence.
But if it wasn’t planned – it should have been!
And, the MTC didnt have to put him on the front row, either. I’m sure someone, even if it was the MTC choir director only, thought of this. But it’s all OK. I didn’t know he’d chosen to serve a mission, and frankly didn’t notice him until the teenagers made us back up and look. We were several families watching together, and if that glimpse helps keep any of our teens on track to serve a mission, then that’s a good thing.
As far as being in the front row, aren’t choirs and other groups of people assigned positions depending on their height from shortest (in the front) to the tallest (in the back)? I know the military was organized in that manner for parades as well. It’s just easier on the eyes and makes for a more pleasant, cohesive looking group.
David Archuleta, being around 5-foot, 6 or 7 inches would definitely be near the front, anyway.
Also, although he is a professional singer, he was newly assigned to the Choir; it makes sense to have him positioned close to the director. And, perhaps an offer was made to him for a solo part, but he could have declined so as not to draw added attention or to take away from the message of conference. This was not an Archuleta concert; if you wanted that, buy “Glad Christmas Tidings!!” 🙂
I can imagine the director Mack Wilberg putting a smile on his face when the well known Glad Christmas Tidings guest singer, David Archuleta, is just right in front of him to sing in his choir. Mack, David A and Motab choir put on a great show at the Christmas concert.
It was definately Planned for David to be in the choir once he reached to MTC. He in fact was introduced to the choir when he arrived. His fan base knew on the Friday before he was going to be in the choir, as his manager announced it to us. So nothing wrong with using his face to forward the work of the Lord. We all have our own special places in life. David just happens to love to sing and he is LDS and a VERY good example. I read that some Elders and Sisters at the MTC were not happy about it, but after all they all chose to serve and forward the gospel unto all nations so if David helped spread that light by being there and being on camera well… Besides it may not have even been his choice. I’m just happy he is getting to do what he has Always wanted to do. Be a Missionary. 🙂
After thinking more about this, I am glad the Youth that know about him (not likely in non-English speaking countries, no?) were able to see him at Conference. It’s kinda neat.
I’m glad they waited until the end of the song to show David. I hope it was to keep the spirit on the beauty of the song, but then to give a little glimpse of him at the end to show him there (because you know that is what half the people where wondering).
And thankfully it is just people spreading the word about David Archuleta being there. It isn’t plastered all over the church website. Even David himself didn’t post anything about it on his facebook. (I checked.. he wrote on March 30th that he would be in MTC for 3-9 weeks).
I can just imagine promo clips “Watch General Conference! With an appearance by David Archuleta!” I’m sure it might have generated more viewers but probably for the wrong reason. 🙂
Wrong reason to tune in – but the viewers might have been touched by something spoken that could change their lives.
Isn’t that one of the motivations for Music & the Spoken Word, and the Christmas Lights at Temple Square, and the Palmyra Pageant?
Valid point. I suppose if the church did promos, it could make sense. But as far as I have ever seen, it is just announced in church and they did make a youtube video, blog banners, and … I think something else to put on the web to encourage others to watch.
I think they didn’t do that because although he is ‘the star’ David Archuleta, he’s an elder now, as any other boy there. I know a lot of people who watched the conference just to see him, so I think it wouldn’t be necessary to do promos. Think about him too. I’m not sure if that would be good for him (as a missionary). 😉
I know of a lot of non-members who watched the Sat. session to ‘see’ Elder Archuleta. They were so impressed with the spirit of the conference that they watched it on Sunday, also. In my honest opinion, I would not hesitate to state that Elder Archuleta requested that he not be spotlighted. He has asked his fans to respect his privacy as he serves the Lord and the people of S.America. We do. And, that was not him that tweeted on the 30th. He has a road manager that is taking care of his twitter account while he is gone. He has every intention of following the rules.
I didn’t think they could do facebook at the MTC, but never really thought that someone else was writing it. Duh. Must have been a slow brain day for me that day. 🙂
I know lots of missionaries who give “charge” of their FB/Twitter/Blogs/etc to family members/friends while they are on their mission. I think it is excellent – if those young people have non-member friends who read their feeds, just think of all the good that can do in the world.
My family & I watched American Idol when he was on it. I have not purchased his music yet, but I do enjoy what I’ve heard of it. WAY before the “Do not judge” talk…. after he was on American Idol, at one point he announced that he was NOT going to serve a mission! I was very judgmental about that!! I was upset. In the article I read, it mentioned something about the Osmonds & how they (or at least Donny) was told by a prophet that he shouldn’t serve a mission because he could do more missionary work as a singer with the family (or so that story went – I honestly don’t know it is a true story or not), and that because of that story David Archuletta was deciding not to serve a mission because he felt he could do more good with his music too. Again, that’s what the article said & I’m not sure if it was actually the whole story – I’m sure it wasn’t! However, I was ticked. Not only because he wasn’t going to go, but because of the supposed reason why – a prophet had told another singer in another generation not to serve (supposedly) – not that he had received counsel not to serve directly! I was also ticked because of the message it sent out to all the YM & YW who followed his music – it’s okay to choose not to go on a mission if something better comes along!
When I found out he was going to serve a mission, I was THRILLED!!! I was so proud of his change of heart and his decision to serve despite his popularity. I did not watch the session when he was in the choir, but saw all the hoop-la about it afterward on Facebook and elsewhere online. I knew he had entered the MTC in the past week or so, but had never thought about him being at conference. At first, it did seem rather crazy and corny for his picture to be plastered everywhere – again, because like you said we’re not worshiping him. However, I am proud of him for changing his mind and for accepting the call to serve. I am grateful for the example that his change of heart and acceptance to serve sends out to the YM & YW who now follow him and his music. I am grateful for the positive influence his decision will have for others & I’m looking forward to seeing an even more changed man upon his return.
Actually it had always been David’s dream to serve a full time mission. He was unable to do so at 19 because he was under contractual obligations with Jive Records at the time. But once his contract expired, he was finally able to go.
Ditto what Anonymous said. David couldn’t say anything about his desire to serve a mission because of his Jive contract. That is one of the reasons he chose not to renew with the record label or pick up another label. He has always done the Lord’s work with his work, and is now following what the Lord has bid him to do. God bless him as he goes forward.
I am just surprised that so many Mormons judge faith of celebrities by their decision to go on a mission or not. Do they judge normal young people by the same standard? Osmond, Jimmer, Steve Young and thousands of elders didn’t serve missions and they turn out pretty good servants of God.
Many of his fans didn’t want him to go because quitting music for 2 years could be a death threat to his career. While he was singing, he’s serving mission with so many good works in charities, hospital visits, meeting cancer patients, just being sincere and caring, never allowing fame to get to his head unlike someone like Beiber who’s flipping off his middle finger on camera. I am just surprised at how Mormons judge other Mormons.
“Normal” young people haven’t been told by God that they are expected to serve missions, so you have a faulty analogy going there.
I’m just surprised by how many people judge Mormons for judging other Mormons.
Ha ha.
Dear Michelle I am a both a fan of David’s (have been since idol) and LDS. Actually not that I say this often but I came back to church because of David’s spirit and example. He said he FELT as if he were already serving a mission thru his music and he DID. I know lots of people who investigated our faith and were baptised because of his example. There were also hundreds of non LDS watching General Conference hoping to see him in the choir, so smart choice to show him. I know quite a bit about this young man from following his career, for 4 years he has always been a faithful servant of the Lord with praise for such everywhere he goes around the world. He amazes me for this strength of faith and character especially in his field of choice. The music industry is not very kind to those who do not bend to the rules of worldly but David remains strong against the opposition. He definately was serving strongly before entering the MTC and will just as strongly during the 2 years and I will imagine afterwards too. I know in fact that our loving President spoke to David when he was 17 and in fact encouraged him to serve a full time mission not the opposite. I guess what I am really trying to get at is David has always just been himself. He has never faultered from his belief or desire to serve the Lord. If you can watch his mission announcment (how many youngmen announce they are going to serve to thousands of people)http://youtu.be/TKRmw0fEM44 and his farewell video http://youtu.be/6N5b7LFX5JI Oh his beautiful heart and spirit. Hope that helped you and others understand him a bit better. God Bless him always!
Just like my kids get excited every time they pan across the Tabernacle Choir and show Alex Boye, they were excited to see Elder Archuletta. Why? Because these people are positive role models who have made an influence on young minds. Not a bad thing, in my opinion.
He attended church in my ward once. He sat in the very last row of the overflow, hardly anyone knew he was there. I only know because my 12yo son told me after passing the sacrament to him. He obviously didn’t want to cause a stir or have a lot of attention.
I love his voice and do actually have a copy of his first cd, haha.
We love David at my parents house. With so many youth leaving the church after they graduate or some serving missions only because It is expected, to see this famous kid walk away from all of it to serve the Lord is awesome.
Well said Kayli. ºÜº
And MMM your summing up paragraph is right on.