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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PETER PAN | 12:23 a.m. June 8, 2009

DAVID YOU ARE NOT OBLIGATED TO LISTEN TO ANYONE.

JUST LISTEN TO THAT INNER VOICE THAT YOU'VE BEEN LISTENING TO SINCE. ALWAYS PRAY FOR GUIDANCE AND DIRECTION FOR YOU ARE ON THE RIGHT TRACK AND YOU ARE DOING GREAT.

ARCH ANGEL | 12:40 a.m. June 8, 2009

God loves music that is why he put David where he is right now - for nothing happens by accident.

What David is doing is giving hope to everyone and he does gives inspiration to lot of people allover the world thru his music.

THAT IS HIS MISSION AND PURPOSE IN LIFE.

HOW ABOUT YOU DO YOU HAVE A PURPOSE IN LIFE ?

life mission vs fulltime mission | 1:16 a.m. June 8, 2009

Why is everyone second-guessing where he'd be sent if he decided to go on a mission? Don't you think the Lord knows where he's most needed? The Lord wouldn't put him in harms way and if it were not in his best interest the Lord's servants would tell him so. If he's a worthy, able young man then he should put in his papers and see what his call would be. There are all kinds of missions in life- life is a mission. But nothing compares to consecrating oneself to serving the Lord as a full-time missionary. That opportunity comes once in a lifetime, much like a singing career... Sure he's touching many lives, but don't forget the Lord cares about "the worth of the one soul" too. It's by simple means that the Lord brings about His great purposes. I served a full time mission. I owe everything good in my life to it. It changes everything for the best in ways I could not have imagined. Wouldn't trade it for fame or riches, even if it were posed as another way to serve.

Comments continue below

Keri | 1:25 a.m. June 8, 2009

I congratulate David on all his success. Although well-intended, I don't think he needs advice on future plans for his life. I'm a true blue Mormon, graduated from BYU, served a mission, have 4 kids and I love the gospel. I find that generic advice is not helpful because everyone lives such a diverse life. It also gives us a bad stereotype as Mormons.

Peace | 2:21 a.m. June 8, 2009

Invisible children project at his age speaks volumes about David. He is serving every minute of his life.. he does not need to do a MISSION to prove his faith.

Kathi | 10:24 a.m. June 8, 2009

David is a fine young man - no doubt about that. Is he a great example of an LDS young man? No doubt about that. Would he be a wonderful missionary? No doubt about that. But . . . I don't think he can go on a mission until he's earned his high school diploma. I think that should be his highest priority at this time in his life. Not finishing high school is not the best example. It doesn't take much. I know. I work closely with an adult high school diploma program and know that it can be done without too much trouble. Some classes can even be finished "on line". GET THAT DIPLOMA FIRST!

To Sheila from Canada | 10:32 a.m. June 8, 2009

Very well worded post! I echo all of your comments. Sheila states, "Wow...some of you people almost make me ashamed to be LDS." I have been ashamed of LDS members in general for years, which is why I went inactive. We pride (I use that word intentionally) ourselves on allowing people to have their agency, but then we have so many 'unspoken' (usually) expectations of others and pass judgments on them when they choose a different path. Missions are a great example. I am a lifelong member and have always heard that missions are strongly encouraged but not mandatory. Yet, if a young man chooses (for reasons of his own) not to go on one he is then condemned by many.

I love the gospel and its teachings. I just detest this attitude that is common throughout wards/stakes. Mormons are some of the most judgmental, narrow-minded, unloving, hypocritical people I know. Amazing for a church that teaches us to be just the opposite.

What a good example | 10:50 a.m. June 8, 2009

David Archuleta is a wonderful example of what an LDS member should be like. For someone so young, this is very impressive. What a wonderful ambassador for the church. He lives what he believes, actually lives it. As such, he doesn't have to preach for people to take notice of him; it radiates around him. He draws people to him by who he is and causes them to ask questions. This alone will give him plenty of opportunities to share the gospel.

I remember Simon Cowell saying on American Idol, more than once, just what a truly good, amazing young man David actually was. That, more than anything, impressed me the most about David. It spoke volumes to me about his character.

Whether or not he goes on a mission is not my concern, it's his. I appreciate what he has done and is doing that has brought him, and the church, so much attention. He has set such a good example for me and reminded me of what I need to be like and I am more than twice his age.

Mike | 11:01 a.m. June 8, 2009

Those who bring up the "Every worthy young man should serve a mission", especially the ones who put it in all CAPS give Mormans a bad name and come across as extremely judgemental. Speak for yourself and not others as far as what NEEDS to happen in his live. Only David knows the impact he feels he has to those he meets. I wouldn't think any other 19 year old would even come close to understanding what it is like to have that kind of platform to live as an example for his church and faith. By the way he speaks, I think he is living his religious beliefs. Get off his back and focus more on living yours.

The song "Imagine" | 11:05 a.m. June 8, 2009

Just because Lennon was an Athiest doesn't mean that all Christians should hate the song "Imagine." I, personally, love the song and I don't like John Lennon. We need to remember that people have different perspectives and interpret things differently. What is ugly to one person can be beautiful to another.

To me, I believe Lennon had a bigger message that he was trying to convey in the song than his athiest belief. Read through all of the lyrics, not just the first part. I interpret this song as being a message about peace, tolerance, and unity worldwide. He has an idealistic view on how the world, and people in it, should behave and is inviting his listeners to share in that vision.

Mike | 11:21 a.m. June 8, 2009

Missionary farewells, alive and well in Zion. The church's established policy is often ignored by members who "understand the real reason for the policy" and know it doesn't apply to them.

I am reminded of Donny Osmond, who didn't serve a traditional 2 year full time mission. I wonder how many people were brought into the church because of his fame and positive lifestyle. I imagine it is a lot more than what even an Uber-Missionary could baptize. Donny is probably in the best position to give David advice on this matter.

Lots of comments about what David will be missing if he doesn't go on a mission. I thought we went of missions to serve others. Not going on a mission will be a sacrifice for a David. Full time missions are desirable, fantastic, rewarding, altruistic, testimony and character building. However, they are not for everyone, and not required for exaltation.
Maybe David will pray about what he should do. Come to think of it, the Lord's advice would be even better than Donny Osmonds. (No offense Donny)

jh | 11:33 a.m. June 8, 2009

I have never commented on these boards, because I think they spew hate and cause contention, but I truly fee I have to comment on this subject. I am truly ashamed of all those people who "think" they know what is best for David and say he needs to serve a mission. I have served a mission and loved almost every minute of it. I grew closer to Lord than I had at any itme before, so yes I feel I am qualified to make the following statement. Does it take serving a mission to come closer to our Heavenly Father? The answer is emphatically no. It is through reading scriptures, praying and sharing your testimony through actions and words. David is doing both. As for serving a mission being a commandment, I don't believe this is a pre-requsite for going to the temple.

anonymouse | 12:05 p.m. June 8, 2009

Regarding David's popularity maybe he should wear purple socks.

fyi | 12:20 p.m. June 8, 2009

Apparently many of you are too young to remember or just not informed> so heres some help! When someone of Davids worldwide popularity tries to serve a "normal" 2 yr mission, it cannot be done anywhere! Not because of the sincere desires of the missionary to serve or not serve, but because of people! Fans, media, agents, hound you 24/7 so no work can be done and your safety and that of your companion is at risk. Not all fans have a good mental status..Church leaders in the past and present, aware of these many concerns, have arranged for these individuals to serve their missions, in a different way such as traveling around speaking and singing at firesides, EFY's, missionary conferences, etc. for free. Remember the Osmonds brothers? All of the famous brothers served their "missions" this way. I was able to serve this way after going so far as trying to serve the "regular" way, at my own request. I found out that some fans, etc. wont respect that you want to have a private life at times....Famous in the 90's....

MY HS diploma has no value | 12:45 p.m. June 8, 2009

I keep reading "get your high school diploma". Graduating high school is no big deal and the diploma alone is worth nothing. It's a stepping stone at best. Now a college degree, skill, talent or training has real worth.

Is he going to be better of with algebra 101, PE., foods 101, seminary, wood shop, bread making??? When he makes his millions he can learn whatever he's interested in.

High school was a joke!

Anonymous | 1:42 p.m. June 8, 2009

Are you kidding? Now it is chemistry, trig, foreign language, college algebra, history, English, Science honors classes at a faster pace. Pressure to get a 4. plus grade average and a college class on the side.

Anonymous | 1:55 p.m. June 8, 2009

It's so funny to see all these people giving advice to D. He no doubt is at home minding his own business with his family and very busy.

Anonymous | 2:18 p.m. June 8, 2009

I feel sorry for him. So many in Utah have defined him so narrowly in some Mormon ideal that none can live by. Like Donny, David will be trapped into becoming a one trick pony.

Perfect Example | 4:53 p.m. June 8, 2009

This thred is a pretty good mircocosm for the pressure young men feel to go on a mission. Having served a mission, I can honestly say that comments like "every good thing in my life came from my mission" are absurd. It is not for every person, in every situation. I have much more respect for a good friend who decided it wasn't for him and when asked would sincerly reply; "No, I'm not going to go. I'm too shy." then others who went just because of social pressure and wasted a lot of time and money.

Anonymous | 6:21 p.m. June 8, 2009

I served a fulltime mission. The only thing that was a bigger waste of time for me is the total sum of 3-hour block meetings I have attended over the decades! We BADLY need a REFORMATION!

Cindy | 7:29 p.m. June 8, 2009

Zero Gravity, 1000 miles and Touch My Hand video are available as fan favorites pack on Itunes June 9!

Jane | 7:55 p.m. June 8, 2009

I think it is really great that you are so grounded. I think it is great that you like to spend time with your family when you can. That is so much a part of who we are. It is also nice to know how you are thankful for all that has been given to you from above. You always are connected to your songs and I see the emotions coming out in your singing. I will always be a fan of yours.

Nathan | 3:58 p.m. June 9, 2009

For those that think High School is vital...if the point of the High School diploma is to be more marketable in the job market, I'd say it is zero value added for David. He is marketable like top athletes that make the decision not to finish school. Make the money, do the GED, do higher ed on the side for self-development. It's crazy to say American Idol should wait until they finish High School to allow them to compete.

Annonymous | 5:34 p.m. June 9, 2009

A mission truly isn't for eveyone and each individual has the right to choose for themselves. David sets a better example in many ways then some that have served missions so I haven't really seen in a lot of people how serving for 2 years has helped them become a better person. We are not here to judge but are here to love one another (which is one of the 1st commandments). Every member is expected to be a missionary by example not neccessarily by serving for 2 years or 18 months. Several of the previous posts have given a bad name to the Mormons since they are coming across as being judgemental. David and our loving Heavenly Father are the only ones who need to choose what he does in his life. Keep up the good work David!!

Anonymous | 9:03 p.m. June 10, 2009

David,
It's great what you are doing. But I suggest that you...A.Finish High School. Like you said you never know when the singing job will end. And it is always good to have something behind you High School and then College.
B.Go On a Mission. They are the best and teach you alot about yourself and others. The Lord will bless you,with everything plus some. You will probably get a better contract, you never know who's life you will touch.
Good Luck with everything that you chose to do.

E | 10:59 a.m. June 11, 2009

Thank you, Cindy. I think we needed that comment! :)

Texan | 9:57 p.m. June 17, 2009

David will do what he's supposed to do. Many of us would like him to serve a mission, but we have no clue what is best for him; I'm sure he's talked with his bishop! I think instead we should all keep him (and his family) in our prayers, especially now, that he will remain faithful in spite of Satan's snares. He'll be getting a lot of negative press right now with his dad's court situation, but we must remember that David will do what he's supposed to do. For what it's worth, a high school diploma, while not worth all that much to some of you, is a ticket to further opportunities. It would be a very good idea to get the diploma or a GED. IMHO.

David | 7:07 p.m. July 2, 2009

Singing -- not really a mission

BecomingOne | 6:57 a.m. July 15, 2009

This article and video clip were incredibly heart warming for me.

I have being praying for David's success but most of all his spiritual success and growth. This article reassures me that he is on the right track.

He prayed about auditioning for AI. He has been an awesome ambassador for the Lord and His church. And from this article it appears that he recognises his ability and success come from the Lord and he wants to use these things for the Lord's glory the best he can, while he can.

Many YM barely have testimonys before serving a mission. David's testimony has shone through right from the start. I think he has enough spiritual maturity to discern the Lord's will and plan for his life.

All the best David. Our prayers here in Australia are still with you.

Acacia | 2:23 p.m. Aug. 29, 2009

David doesn't know me and I don't know him (if wishes were food, I wouldn't be the one starving...)! I think it's great that he is being such a good example since he's in a place where everyone watches him. I know it must be hard too, to be in the limelight all the time. A mission is important and I'm sure he realizes that. I don't believe David is a person who would not fulfill his duty to God for the sake of fame. (Who wouldn't welcome him back with even more ethusiasm anyway?) It's, of course, his choice. Nothing you or I say can persuade him of what is right or wrong. He knows already. It's the same choice every LDS youth makes (even us girls)! I certainly would be ecstatic if he decided to serve the Lord. After all, he is being watched and how he makes this choice will show others how important it is to him. Either he can go or stay to be an example. By the way, he is amazingly talented! I'm sure you all knew that already... :)

warren | 1:54 p.m. Oct. 2, 2009

Where could they send him so he doesn't get attacked? I would worry about his safety on a mission.

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