Carmen, thank you for that wonderful article. I wasn't aware of Syesha's background and that certainly says a lot about what kind of person she is to overcome that. It's also fun to hear about your experiences preparing for the idol finale. That must have been a rush. Great job Carmen.

Syesha didn't seem sad probably because she's aware of the fact that taking 2nd or 3rd not only isn't a bad thing, but it's better than winning. You can't buy all this free MEGA publicity they get by being on this very popular show for several weeks.

David Cook deserves to win, more so than Archuleta based on not just voice but over all talent etc. but I'm hoping that he takes 2nd place so he escapes the clutches of the "Idol" producers and won't have their hands in what he does with his debut CD. Let Arculeta win, he needs to molding and hints/suggestions they'll thrust upon him.

I've been voting for David Cook heavily and now that I've accomplishe my goal, getting him into the final 2, I'll most likely vote heavily for ARCHULETA next week in order to help assure that David Cook takes the better position... 2nd place.

But if my efforts fail and David Cook is our next American Idol, that's fine. I'll still be happy for him and take pleasure in knowing the best contestant won.

Great article!

Syesha, you are an inpiration to many. You just glow on stage and knowing the obstacles you've overcome in your life makes you shine even more. You have a wonderful talent - thank you for sharing that with us and making our world a better place. You deserve to be in the top 3 and will have a successful career in whatever branch of entertainment you choose. Way to go!!! You're awesome!!!

I guess people are loosing interest in Carmen's articles. For two weeks now at least there have been very few comments... all the regulars are still missing in action. Wonder if it will be the same for Carmen's FINAL article this week? And it really could be her final if the Deseret News turns to David Archuleta to write a column/articles next year while "American Idol" is on (for his review and comments on that week's show). Dare we hope?