Deseret News | David Archuleta still just a kid from Murray

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David Archuleta still just a kid from Murray

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Anonymous | 9:30 p.m. June 3, 2009

David, if you read this, please, get your High School diploma. As hard it can be, it's the best thing you can do. Artists had taken a break to get their college degrees regardless their already obtained fame to get a higher education. And about your mission, it's your personal choice but if you change your mind, you would make a great missionary.

Not Quite | 9:44 p.m. June 3, 2009

David will probably never read this but considering the 35 years I have spent in missionary work - his example is great - but he is not serving a mission -as stated. Don't be deceived David - performing is not the same as serving a mission. Don't make that mistake - you only have this opportunity once to serve as a young man.

Lexie | 9:46 p.m. June 3, 2009

When the first presidency said that every worthy young man should serve a mission, they didn't say "unless you have a really promising career" or "if you are serving a mission through your talents." They said EVERY WORTHY YOUNG MAN SHOULD SERVE A MISSION.
To Jason: I don't think you quite understand what a mission is. It doesn't matter if you have a career or not, that is the concept of SACRIFICE.
However, I also think that whatever DA's decision, it is a personal one; But I get really tired of people using the exuse, "he has touched so many through his voice" and "It is his career blah blah blah". I'm sure that David's singing and example are touching people, but it just isn't the same.

Comments continue below

Insight | 10:07 p.m. June 3, 2009

Yes, he is serving a mission.

His pure heart will guide him to what he should do.

A traditional mission may not be in the cards. I personally think he has and will have a far greater impact on the world by doing what he is doing.

He has inspired me to be better. Thank you David. Keep developing and utilizing your great abilities. Singing is just one of them.

daisyheadmaisy | 10:11 p.m. June 3, 2009

You are doing a wonderful job David. You are a great example to everyone!! Let God lead you as he has already and you will end up in just the right place he intended you to be.

anonymous | 10:25 p.m. June 3, 2009

''EVERY WORTHY YOUNG MAN SHOULD SERVE A MISSION'' ... the operative word being ''should'' in this statement - which then brings in the matter of choice, and the individual being free to exercise free will agency to make a personal decision regarding the matter. It's my understanding that serving a ''mission'' is not a compulsory action, but one of choice, and regardless of the choice the individual makes, their decision should be honored and respected, without fear of judgment or condemnation to them or their families if they choose to forego ''mission'', as it pertains in lds terminology. Let David, and he alone, be responsible for making his decision freely, unconditionally... and we owe it to him to honor and respect whatever decision he makes - leave the judgements in the hands of the heavenly father.. none of us are in a position to say what is right or wrong for another sentient being....

Ashley | 10:32 p.m. June 3, 2009

there are LOTS of ways to serve a mission. David's way is through singing so don't judge him if he chooses that way. No one can say what is the right or real mission is about. It is your own way to serve God. God knows how you want to serve him. David does NOT need to please everyone, it's his choice and God is the only one to be pleased.

Marlie | 10:35 p.m. June 3, 2009

I'm not LDS, so I have a question. Is the mission about sacrifice or is it about building a personal relationship with God without the distractions of school or work? Both were stated here, but they seem contradictory to me.

Also, You all should go read some of the stories of fans who have had life-changing experiences because of David. There are so many. And I wish you would read the comments of the younger fans who are inspired to be better people, to give their time and money to charity work when they never did so before.

And if you think David isn't sacrificing on the road, you are quite mistaken. David's schedule and pace are horrendous and yet he never complains about it or hesitates to take time out to visit the sick or support a charity. David doesn't seek "fame and fortune" and if you knew anything about him you'd know that was true. David seeks to touch people's lives - and he does that more than you seem to realize. Is this a mission? Not in the strict LDS sense apparently, but it is a calling.

Jonathan | 11:19 p.m. June 3, 2009

Perhaps David (and everyone else) should let the Holy Spirit inspire him as to the decisions he should make. Not everyone has the same path through life, and just because we might desire something for someone doesn't mean that God wants it so.

If David remains true to the commandments of God, the Holy Spirit will guide him every day of his life.

I congratulate David on his outstanding achievements while remaining a humble, amazing young man.

Rob | 11:26 p.m. June 3, 2009

My teenagers and I are really looking forward to a Christmas album from you. The songs we heard you sing for Chrismas last year were beautiful and we felt so much closer to Heavenly Father. Thank you so much for the life you are living that helps us to get closer to God.

Lizzy | 11:36 p.m. June 3, 2009

No mission and no highschool diploma? Music shouldn't consume every inch of his life. No highschool diploma?!?!? No mission?!?!

Geri | 11:54 p.m. June 3, 2009

I personally have met 2 people who have joined the church because of Davids example and have read stories of a few others that have joined. I have a friend who is now taking the discussions because of David. So to say that he isn't serving is ridiculous. The first time that I saw David personally was top 3 homecoming at his high school. He was in the car going around the field and it stopped in front of me. He turned and smiled and I could feel the love of his spirit. I walked into the middle of the field and cried. I admit to being a HUGH fan of Mr David Archuleta. His voice is amazing but it is his SPIRIT that keeps me coming back for more.
Mr 35 years of doing missionary work you must be a letter of the law type not a spirit of the law type. You know they both work. Keep up the great work David!!! Oh and I'm not a teeny bopper I am 50 and proud to be a fan of David.

GoodGuyGary | 11:56 p.m. June 3, 2009

He only have one chance to serve mission? How many chance he has to be a famous singer? Many people said he should serve the mission and get a high school diploma since the experience cannot compare to being a famous singer, but how many of you had been famous singer before? Let him make his own choice and save your opinion to yourself.

Anonymous | 12:05 a.m. June 4, 2009

David's mission is to do whatever it is that God is calling him to do. Right now it is to sing. Maybe next year it will be to go serve a mission or maybe God has another plan for him. I feel confident that David will do whatever it is that God is calling him to do and that will be his mission, to follow God. As far as sacrifice is concerned; the sacrifices that God delights in are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, God will not despise. Psalm 51:16-17

Taylor | 12:13 a.m. June 4, 2009

There are many ways to serve God and David chose it to be through singing. No one can say what a real mission is or whatnot. David has touched so many lives already and God has plans for him so please don't judge David.

It is not what you do | 12:58 a.m. June 4, 2009

It is not what you do, but how (and sometimes why) you do it that matters.

You and God figure it out, David.

Dale and Bronco | 1:05 a.m. June 4, 2009

Dale Murphy never served a mission, played professional baseball, was then called as a mission president.

Brono Mendenhall never served a mission, now as BYU football coach exerts a strong spiritual influence on many.

I know many Bishops who did serve missions.

It is between you and God. David.

Better than 500 Missionaries | 1:25 a.m. June 4, 2009

Let me see if I got this straight?

Some of you are actually suggesting that he give up the remarkable opportunity he has to influence MILLIONS of people WORLDWIDE with his singing career to go on a mission?

I have to say some of you are truly ignorant!

This young man has done more singing and promoting his faith than he ever could out knocking doors - stop and think for a minute. He will introduce 10,000 times more people doing what he's doing now than he ever will as a missionary. I served a mission and loved every single minute of it - but knocking doors in France does not begin to compare to the opportunities he has.

I believe this could easily be his "mission". And besides, who says he has to go now at 19 - wait and see if 22, or 25 works better.

Steve Young and David Archuleta have introduced more people to the Gospel than 500 missionaries ever have. Both missed out on the spiritual growth a mission offers, but I believe the Lord will bless and compensate them adequately.

Way to go David - I'm proud of you!

ZachV | 1:35 a.m. June 4, 2009

A problem in our society is that we make such a big deal of those who don't follow the social norm. We forget we're individuals. No HS diploma? So. David is making something of his life using his natural talents. Awesome! All the power to ya kid.

Pale Bear | 1:39 a.m. June 4, 2009

Here's something no one has mentioned yet. What is his contractual obligation because of American Idol? Is he required to tour and make records because of his second-place finish? Perhaps he isn't even free to decide until 2 or 3 years from now...

anonymous | 2:34 a.m. June 4, 2009

David please keep singing. You are the gifted one. You ignite love and care to millions of your fans. Your studies are important and you will do it when the time comes. What you have is "a calling from a Higher Commander: GOD". Don't let anyone to take that away from you. It belongs to you only. Many are praying that you keep singing for a long long time. Just see around how many people you have deeply touch with your glentleness, sincerity, and humble attitude. Your fans can feel your deep love for God and those less fortunate. Through your beautiful voice your touch their heart strings and bring them to zero gravity. This world is a better place with you. You take away the pain away on many souls when you sing (it's your gift). You are ONE unique singing star that shines for all the world to see. Don't let go David. I hope you can read this.

God bless you David.

Asaph | 4:48 a.m. June 4, 2009

Alex Boye went on a mission, David should ask him about being a great musician while on a mission.

sarah jane | 5:08 a.m. June 4, 2009

David will do much good wherever he goes. I don't think it would be possible for him to serve a full time mission because of his popularity. Physically, he is not a large guy and it could be dangerous for him to be easily accessible to so many people.

Education is a priority in life and it should be to David. He is a great singer and I enjoy is humble personality.

chenson | 5:14 a.m. June 4, 2009

I think people here underestimate the power of music.

There is a book that was given to David called 'David is my Hero' full of stories from people all over the world of how David has helped them with his singing and his personality in more ways than you can imagine from inspiration to helping them through dark times of their life. David has touched so many lives including my own. I have only met David twice but he has altered the course of my life forever and honestly made me a better person for it. He has inspired me to follow my dreams and united people forming life long friendships. What he has done for me and so many others is pretty amazing. He is a true inspiration and role model.

If thats not a mission then I dont know what is.

sammy | 5:15 a.m. June 4, 2009

music will not "always" be there. don't take it for granted. Heavenly Father will "always" be there and no one should take that for granted either.

Missions are great and you learn a lot, but all of our experiences are for our good and we learn from them.
Even with the "bar raised" their are still plenty of boneheaded missionaries. It's not ok to judge anyone for any reason. Isn't that what the Lord said? I believe so. So put away the porn and do the best you can to Follow Him.

Life is awesome. Love everyone.

Chris in Texas | 5:31 a.m. June 4, 2009

David, I'm a Returned Missionary. I loved my mission, it was a great experience, but I live my life everyday as if I'm on a mission. You are doing that too! That is what counts - using the talents God has given you. Don't let fools influence you. Follow the promptings of the Spirit. If it tells you to serve a full-time mission, do so. If it tells you you're already on one (and you very well could be in His eyes), then follow that. We (the LDS public) have no right to choose your destiny, only you (and the Lord) do. I'm grateful for the example you set. Non-LDS bring your name up in conversations with me at work and the neighborhood. Your influence is noticed and felt. Keep making a difference, bro! We're proud of you! Look forward to the Christmas music.

ramper | 5:37 a.m. June 4, 2009

Should one go on a mission because parents, ward, etc. etc. want them to go, or should one go because they feel the spirit to go? I guess it is similar to whether it is advisable to join the church to get a testimony, or join the church because of a testimony.

Chris | 6:19 a.m. June 4, 2009

David will be fine. He is at a point of good will in his popularity right now. As far as the mission goes, when he gets to that point, I am sure he will ask the right authorities for their input. If you know the Osmonds, they asked for guidence, because Donny wanted to go on a mission, but was counseled not to, because people would most likley join the church for the wrong reasons, especially the females. They were told though that their talent would help people, should people be interested in the church. Obviously David might not be up there yet on the popularity scale as Donny was, but then American Idol, internet, Utube, and other things now exist, that didn't from Donny's time.

Gemma, UK | 6:39 a.m. June 4, 2009

If David Archuleta sends in mission papers I doubt very much the Lord would have him pounding the streets. There is more than one type of mission to be served, even through official channels. I am quite confident that the Lord would have David use his wonderful talent in spreading the gospel.

ObviousUt | 6:47 a.m. June 4, 2009

David don't get fooled. finish HS and continue with your musical talents.

Charlie | 6:49 a.m. June 4, 2009

If David had washed out of the competition early, how would he be spending his life now? The reality is the competition and it's outcome DID change him and the direction of his life. The indisputable fact is that ALL decisions and experiences alter the course of our life's trajectory and whatever he decides to do will be looked upon by some as a bad thing.

If he chooses to sing and tour and make money, he will be decried as being 'greedy and self-serving', but if he postpones his musical career for a mission, there will be another camp that will consider him a 'sellout zealot' who can't choose for himself.

Either way, the decision is deeply personal and he is the only person who gets to decide what is best for him and be held accountable for that decision. I seem to recall a pretty famous Utah family named Osmond who never served LDS missions...

Jan Judd | 6:53 a.m. June 4, 2009

I love your music. Please serve a mission if at all possible and get at least your high school diploma. It might not seem attainable now but it will it the future. With your talents you would make a great missionary. Good Luck and may the Lords choices blessing be yours.

Get it done | 6:55 a.m. June 4, 2009

I find it hard to believe that Murray High School wouldn't award David with some kind of honorary graduation. Just what about High School is that hard? Athletes often manage to get through highschool without applying their brains, so it can't be that.

I hope he gets the opportunity to serve a mission. I think that would be a really amazing example of where one places one's priorities, but I wouldn't be surprised if the church didn't have to make some serious accomodations for him when it happened.

In retrospect, I wouldn't trade my mission experience for anything... at least that's what i say... but I'm not a rockstar, and so I dunno.

IndyMeg | 6:55 a.m. June 4, 2009

Donny Osmond never served a mission. Probably because of some of the same reasons that David never will. It would be a huge distraction to the missionaries and the area where he serves. He is not only famous in Utah but world wide. And with the internet, there is NO WAY he could serve a mission and not be hunted down by fans and the paparazzi. I'm sure the church leadership is very happy with the "mission" he is serving now and he may not grow in the ways he would if he did serve a mission, but I will never grow in the ways I might had I been a famous singer. Leave him alone. He's a great young man doing a great job.

$$$$$ Signs? | 7:02 a.m. June 4, 2009

$$$$$$$ Isin't everything, Don't let the fme go to your head.

notajudge | 7:04 a.m. June 4, 2009

We had one of the Osmond 2nd generation serving out here where we are and everyone knew his family name and even asked for pictures with him. We treated him like we have treated all the other missionaries. I can't imagine David going without being hounded everywhere he went and with the internet almost everyone knows about famous people. It is a decision between him and God we must not judge. It is not our right or place to do so. He has been a shining example. Go David and do what you think is best for you!

Rene | 7:26 a.m. June 4, 2009

It seems as though the mission is not REQUIRED: LDS Church President Spencer W. Kimball said "Every young man should fill a mission".[4] Young men between the ages of 19 and 25 who meet standards of worthiness are strongly encouraged to consider a two-year, full-time proselytizing mission. This expectation is based in part on the New Testament passage "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations..." (Matt. 28: 19-20). In 2007, approximately 30% of all 19-year-old LDS men became Mormon missionaries; from LDS families that are active in the church, approximately 80-90% of 19-year-old men serve a mission.[5]

I just love you David, no matter what church you belong to, whether or not you go on a mission, how your hair looks, what songs you sing. I wish you all the best. Peace and Love from Michigan! :)

SLC gal | 7:29 a.m. June 4, 2009

What is the purpose of missionary work - really? To expose people to the gospel and teach them. That's it.

Millions of people worldwide know who this kid is (and as other posters have pointed out, he'd draw mobs whereever he was sent), and the fact that he is LDS has been highlighted on more then one occasion.

His mission is singing, reaching out to fans, and I'm sure he's going to do his fair share of teaching along the way. You think those record execs in LA aren't ever curious about the 'mormon kid'?

I'm just really irritated by those who are insisting that just because he may not enter the MTC, it doesn't count. I have a brother in law that ran into the same issue. He choose military over a mission, but I tell you the Lord placed him right where he needs to be, as he has been a great influence and example for the men in his platoon, and he's taught along the way.

Mom of Nine | 8:02 a.m. June 4, 2009

Some of you give the Church a bad name. We are not taught to be carbon copies of one another. David you are doing just fine; keep up the GREAT work. Does anyone remember any music being sung in the church like Gladys Knight's since her conversion? The Prophet invited her to sing at his birthday party and then in churches everywhere. Please, let us remember why we are here and allow David and his family and church leaders make a private decision. The Osmonds were advised NOT to go on a mission. Life is scary out there in 2009. David, you are on a mission - one that is unique to you. Continue staying close to the Lord and your family and you will succeed in life and be the example the Lord expects! Loving you in Oregon!

Bill | 8:11 a.m. June 4, 2009

A mission is an important aspect of any young man's life. However, the choice to go is between him and the Lord. Who are we to say what is and isn't a mission. President McKay 50 years ago said, "Every member a missionary." A mission is an opportunity for a young man to grow, to sacrifice and to become closer to his Father in Heaven.

Have any of you ever wondered what it would be like to use some of your great talents to benefit others? Have any of you ever wondered what would happen if the Lord made it possible for you to touch the lives of thousands? David may not serve a mission in the same sense as most of young men and women, but he may actually touch more lives for good than any of them could. I feel it right that if one person joins the Church because of David, then he has magnified his calling as a Priesthood holder. If thousands become interested in the Church because of his music and several join, just how much joy do you think David will have in the world to come.

Every Member a What? | 8:40 a.m. June 4, 2009

When was the last time you talked to your neighbor about the church? Missionary service is a lifelong pursuit. Glad to see David's taking his membership serious despite his fame and fortune. I hope he can maintain that Spirit always, and not get jaded by the busybodies in the church who opine about his salavation as though they are already gods...

C Gonzo | 8:50 a.m. June 4, 2009

I think what David is doing is amazing. I think he needs to pray about what to do, because there are risk factors that need to be taken into consideration. I think he will be blessed and bless others either way (although the mission is probably the better idea). David, you truly are a leader to some of the younger teens.

GO DAVID!!!

slsorensen | 8:58 a.m. June 4, 2009

It may be just Mormon folklore or a faith promoting rumor, but I remember hearing that the Osmonds discussed going on missions with the General Authorities and they were told they were already serving missions through their music and examples. Not serving an official mission is certainly not the end of the world. It did not hurt Howard W. Hunter or Boyd K. Packer any in their life-long service of the Lord. Individual circumstances need to be taken into account when making such decisions. There are people who would love to serve a full-time mission but are physically unable to do so. There are many unique circumstances and it is up to David and the Lord to determine what is best for him. His situation is very unique and certainly does not fit neatly into the general categories most of us who have served missions fit into.

Jeanie | 9:01 a.m. June 4, 2009

Heavenly Father gave us the ability to use reason and common sense as well as his guidance to make our life's decision. David is just about as popular as Donny Osmond was and is. I believe Donny wanted to go on a mission when he was at this age, but was told by the Prophet that he was doing the Lord's work by the example he lives. It would be a media and security nightmare for the church if David served a regular 2 year mission. Elder Nelson and his wife were just robbed in the mission home recently, missionaries have been kidnapped for ranson. He does a fair amount of charity so he isn't about the almighty dollar. In the end it's between David, Heavenly Father and the Prophet.

It would be dangerous | 9:07 a.m. June 4, 2009

for him to go on a real mission. He would have to have bodyguards around him wherever he goes. Of course he wouldn't have any trouble getting investigators.

bystander | 9:10 a.m. June 4, 2009

It seems to me that if he continues to be a good example and live true to his standards, he is doing missionary work. I don't think any of the Osmond Brothers went on a mission and I know for a fact that they have "converted" many to the Gospel.

Anonymous | 9:16 a.m. June 4, 2009

I'm extremely disappointed with the Deseret News for the headline - "already on a mission" - implying, well, he sings well, so he shouldn't be expected to go on a real one like everyone else.

I suppose this may sound a little judgmental, but a couple things come to mind reading this article: the story told by a general authority of when a man said he donates 10% of his income to his chosen charities in lieu of tithing. The general authority's reply is that "you're a generous man with someone else's money." To call your current hobby a "mission" to get out of serving a two-year mission where the Lord's servants call you is being generous with someone else's time. General Authorities have also told us not to use our testimony for financial profit - and calling a professional hobby a "mission" seems too close to the edge of that to me. His talent needs to be magnified, but singing professionally is no excuse or exemption for the terms the Lord has set for ALL able 19-year-old men.

dismayed | 9:24 a.m. June 4, 2009

The age old axiom, "You can't please all of the people all of the time" is proven once again. Ironic that David, a fine representative of the Church, is the focus of his fellow Church member's judgment and scorn. There is no question as to David's devout faith and service, those who chose to judge him and his choices need to read their scriptures more closely.

Denise | 9:24 a.m. June 4, 2009

No matter where David went on a mission the reporters and fans would find him and be hassling him. He can do a much better job at missionary work where he is now.

Chadders | 9:53 a.m. June 4, 2009

I wasn't trying to tell him what to do, I was just stating my opinion that if he sets an example of going on a mission then maybe the next Steve Young or Donny Osmond will realize that he too might benefit from serving a mission. I said I would support him no matter what he decides. Obviously a mission isn't the end all be all and there are things he is experiencing now that most missionaries don't. That doesn't mean a "regular mission" couldn't help him grow in ways he otherwise couldn't. The media probably would cover his mission and would that be such a bad thing? People might finally realize Mormons aren't a brainwashed cult that many think we are. I'll be a big fan no matter what he decides and it is most definitely his decision. I was just putting my 2 cents in about it.

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