bebereader
djafan
voiceadmin
Context Matters ~ David Archuleta
Posted by Abrra on Monday, April 6, 2015
https://twitter.com/DavidArchie/status/584401116151947264
https://twitter.com/DavidArchie/status/584401244157902848
When the above tweets came over my phone on Saturday afternoon, I had two thoughts. David is watching the LDS General Conference and he is going to get some interesting feedback.
On Saturday I went to David’s timeline and here are a few of the reactions that fans had to his two tweets above. I chose some in support of what he quoted and others that do not support what he tweeted. I thought this might be an opportunity for fans here to express their opinion on the quote. While David likes to send quotes out, I am not always sure they have the desired effect he intends. It seems to be an out of context quote taken from President Packer’s speech. A synopsis of the speech can be found in this Deseret News article http://tinyurl.com/n4exz4f.
Janel Woodbury @Nellie1983
@andy_archie @DavidArchie David is quoting President Packer from the LDS conference.
THECanadaArchie @THECanadaArchie 4h4 hours ago
@davidarchie wisdom
Diena @dienafebrianty 4h4 hours ago
@DavidArchie …..what do u want to say honestly
Maureen @Maureen_abms 2h2 hours ago
@kimak @Astrid222 what difference does it make if he is married or has children? He can’t have an opinion?
natalie @epicflailer
oh boy @DavidArchie i don’t know how i feel about this. any
more preachy judgement and i might just have to unfollow
you.
Holly @hollyreFOD
@DavidArchie Jesus never married or had children. Was there ever a greater love? No. No.
Patricia @pbfville
@DavidArchie so tired of all the sexism and homophobia –
this offends the infertile as well. Maybe you will help
move your church forward!
penciltopaper @penciltopaper
@DavidArchie My sincere hope is that you will continue to
learn from life itself and not just go by words you hear.
Live, love, and learn.
Sydney Walcoff @sydney_shiriel
@DavidArchie I know how strong you are in your beliefs, but
you just isolated so many of your fans by invalidating their
beliefs about love
I am not in agreement with the quote from LDS President Packer because there are personal reasons why a married couple may not have a child. Is there a value one places on the quality of romantic love based on having children? Is the infertile couple or those who are a same-sex couple any less in love because they are childless? It has an exclusionary tone and I think it is just not a well thought-out statement when you consider the realities of life in 2015.
The Twitter/Instagram posts that I enjoy are those relating to David’s career or him showing us what he is doing at that moment. The good news is that David Archuleta gained 200+ followers on Twitter over the weekend.
Statement From David:
I apologize if I have offended anyone with the quote I sent out Saturday. I guess I didn’t think about the line “expressed between a man and a woman in marriage” being stressed when the whole quote didn’t fit in just 1 tweet. I am sorry my intentions were misunderstood, as my main focus was that too often romance is looked at as the end-all when there is so much more. The bonds that can be there within a family and raising kids, as that is the most valuable thing I have: my family. I do hope however, that whoever may have been offended may know I respect everyone’s freedom to believe and live as they choose. I hope others can respect what I value most in my life as well. Again, I’m sorry and please forgive me if I offended you. David
The Voice David Archuleta 
jans11 said
This is a touchy subject, but as long as there is free speech, I see no wrong in what he quoted. Quoting, I have no idea what he believes. Heaven knows a lot of people spout off on what they believe whether anyone likes it or not. Like he said one time, “there are people out there that will hate your guts no matter what you do”. I would rather he talk more about this singing career though, that is what his fans want to know about. Everyone has their own beliefs and the ones that agree with David, it’s ok and the ones that don’t agree, they don’t like what he says. It’s like church and state, religion and politics, they are like water and oil. They don’t mix, and people will always have something to holler about.
LikeLike
MUNKM said
When one believes that the family is eternal… that marriage and having children are eternal, and that everyone can have that opportunity, then it really doesn’t leave anyone out. Even if people don’t agree… why be so ugly about it all?
I hate confrontation… I don’t like all the ugliness out there on this subject.. Why do people have to be so mean?
LikeLike
tawna21 said
When I heard this comment from Elder Packer, I was somewhat taken aback. He is a very ‘speaking from the cuff’ man. I can’t, and won’t, try to analyze it. I am, however grateful for the comments from Abrra, Jan, and Munkm… I agree with absolutely everything you three have put into words. Am I being lazy, and riding on the ideas of others? I don’t think so. I am just choosing not to dwell on this subject because it is a controversial one and I’m not in the mood for controversy.
I will say, that I hope David reads some of the tweets and realizes that he has stirred a pot that didn’t need stirring. Let the beast lie still and don’t disturb it. He can mix his career and his beliefs only to a certain point and be public about it. He must weigh, with a finer tuned scale, what he comments about. I love David for his beliefs and his great desire to uphold them (yes, I am LDS). But, I would prefer that he focuses on writing and making music that upholds those beliefs and satisfies the fans’ needs. Please don’t preach to us. Please. ♥
LikeLike
Dayzee said
I appreciate the comments from Abrra, Jan, Munk & Tawna. I am pretty much in the same place.
David never lied to us. He always made it clear how much his church meant to him. How could the intensity he shows in every aspect of his life not also show up in his religious world? Do I wish he would tone down the preaching when he is on the worldwide stage? Yes I do. I too get the feeling of exclusion at times. But David has the right to be what he wants to be. Funny thing, I used to enjoy the suggestions he used to make about improving our lives. Somewhere between then and now a line has been crossed. Living a compassionate life is an important part of any faith. I feel David’s heart is always in the right place.
Abrra, I am not home yet. Have some other children to visit for a couple of days before I head home. St. George, here I come!
LikeLike
angelofdja said
Politics & religion…subjects I was taught to never discuss. I will say each one are personal & full of individual opinions. In saying that, I believe you have every right to your own thoughts & ideas about both. That includes David’s own feelings. All the bashing and name calling is hurtful no matter WHAT your opinion may be.
LikeLike
djafan said
I’m sickened and saddened by the hate David is receiving. I know first hand if you don’t agree with “some” hook, line and sinker you’re a hater. But nothing in life is black or white, there are many shades in between and tolerance works both ways. The hate is mostly coming from non David followers, those that love to stir the pot and somehow get enjoyment out of this.
My experience with being of fan of David doesn’t include the word hate, but the exact opposite even with differing views and opinions.
This is what I thought when I read the tweet. David may be dreaming of this in “his” future?
LikeLike
djafan said
David tweeted other quotes as well. Does it seem that he was out to hate anyone? Not to me.
LikeLike
lynnella said
Personally, I am not LDS, I’m a Methodist, and I have no problem with David affirming his beliefs on any of his social media outlets. He has a right to his opinion. You don’t have to agree with him if you don’t want to, you also have a right to your opinion. But, that doesn’t give you the right to bash someone else’s opinions or beliefs. I was watching when Pres. Packer made his speech, and thought it was a beautiful speech. Being LDS, David most certainly would agree with what was said. If you think he’s preaching and you don’t want to hear it, don’t read his twitter, or facebook or anything else where he gives his opinions. You’re not being forced to. No matter what a person says, there is always going to be someone who disagrees. That’s just the way the world is. I think people who know who David is, and I’m talking about his fans now, would not be surprised that he feels the way he does. He’s never tried to hide it, and since his mission, he’s a bit bolder about “preaching” what he believes. I think, in a way, David has always been a missionary, and probably always will be. That’s okay with me, because what he preaches is goodness and love.
Lynnella
LikeLike
MT said
Tawna’s second paragraph. I agree. I’d like to see him more focused on his music, at least publicly.
Religion, like politics, often elicits strong reactions on both sides. It’s almost guaranteed to cause some contention and this particular tweet came at a very bad time politically. There has been quite a backlash on twitter following his tweets.
LikeLike
djafan said
I just added a statement from David on his OS to the article.
http://davidarchuleta.com/home/?p=6279
LikeLike
Kristin said
David spoke out guys. One of you might bring over the actual tweet, but here’s the statement in full from his official site:
“I apologize if I have offended anyone with the quote I sent out Saturday. I guess I didn’t think about the line “expressed between a man and a woman in marriage” being stressed when the whole quote didn’t fit in just 1 tweet. I am sorry my intentions were misunderstood, as my main focus was that too often romance is looked at as the end-all when there is so much more. The bonds that can be there within a family and raising kids, as that is the most valuable thing I have: my family. I do hope however, that whoever may have been offended may know I respect everyone’s freedom to believe and live as they choose. I hope others can respect what I value most in my life as well. Again, I’m sorry and please forgive me if I offended you. David”
LikeLike
Kristin said
DJA, you beat me to it XP
LikeLike
sandybeaches9 said
There is a time and a place for everything.
He can say what he wants to because we believe in freedom of speech but he will see the results and if he likes them then good. Remember when he went away he said that until then it was all about him and he wanted to go away so that it would not be that way? Well it is more about him now than ever before by 200%. I don’t read what he writes, what he quotes, but I do read what fans write. So yes, I can walk away with my freedom of speech. He expressed he doesn’t like interferences in his personal life so that would mean to possibly stop expressing personal beliefs himself to the social media! Keep it about the music David!!
Bravo Abrra…
LikeLike
sandybeaches9 said
I don’t think that he might realize something in regards to family. Every boy who becomes a man if given the chance would like to have his father in his life and would do whatever he could to accommodate that. Every boy would love to have a brother as my own son told me. Parents, grand parents, siblings, usually all happen on the list before a wife or children and often the relationship needs thoughtfulness and caring and sometimes actually some forgiving to make it work. They are never less important. Was that preached about too? Of course having children increases the population.
LikeLike
bebereader said
I was hoping David would come back and tweet something in response to the hateful tweets addressed to him. He didn’t deserve to have his words twisted to sound like he said something else. However, although he has the right to say what he wants on his social media platforms, I hope he learned to think it through before tweeting to his 1.37 million followers. There are bound to people who will be offended.
Like many of you, I would rather David stick to tweeting about music and food and places he’s visited. I know that he has gotten more religious since his mission but I think most of his Twitter fans are here for his music and even if they don’t mind, they aren’t necessarily interested in his religious life. In my opinion, religion is too sacred a subject to express one’s views about in public, especially when your audience is so diverse
LikeLike
jans11 said
When I turned my calendar of inspirations to April 6, it said “When you act upon something you feel you’re called to do by being in vibrational harmony with it and by being willing to share it with as many people possible, you feel inspired.” That’s the way I feel when I read his quotes, whether by him or someone else. I take no offense to them just because that’s the way he feels or thinks. I have my own beliefs and thoughts, but it’s interesting to know about others and their thoughts without being ugly about it. There is too much racism, bigotry and downright meaness in the world today and to me David is the complete opposite. He is such a sweetheart and his apology proves it!
By the way, it’s my son’s 51st birthday today! He is a sweetheart too! 🙂
LikeLike
Abrra said
Thank you to those who visit and/or comment here daily.
This topic is one that could have gone without me blogging my thoughts. I will share with you the reason why I decided to make this post. We have a counter that tracks how many visitors we have each day. On Saturday we had about 20 comments but had hundreds of viewer hits to the site.When I saw that large number, I knew that people wanted to discuss this topic but maybe didn’t feel comfortable doing it on Easter weekend. I felt that giving this open forum as an opportunity to share feelings would give fans a chance to have their say.
A few have said they don’t like controversy. I saw some very healthy discussion here. That is how I had hoped it would turn out.Just as what David said was out of context, those who are attacking his words on twitter do not have the whole story on who he is a person. They attack him (out of context) for the words of another man. Maybe he has learned a lesson to use his own words to define what he is about when using social media.
I am so very pleased that David acknowledged that what he tweeted could be misunderstood as it was broken into parts due to the character limit on Twitter.
Abrra
LikeLike
djafan said
From Billboard.com
.@DavidArchie apologized about a tweet that looked like he seemingly weighed in on the religious freedom debate: http://blbrd.cm/1XRKpE
American Idol alum David Archuleta has apologized about a tweet that looked like he seemingly weighed in on the religious freedom debate.
The season-seven runner-up took to Twitter on Saturday, April 4, to share his thoughts on the issue, tweeting, “Romantic love is incomplete. It is a prelude. Love is nourished by the coming of children, who spring from the fountain of love…expressed between a man and a woman in marriage. #PresPacker”
#PresPacker is President Boyd K. Packer, President of the Quarum of the Twelve Disciples. Archuleta was quoting Packer’s Saturday morning remarks made during a biannual conference this past weekend. Packer, who has been married nearly 70 years, also spoke of the challenges facing marriage today — including financial stress, temptation and illness. The comments in the address come on the heels of Indiana’s controversial Religious Freedom Restoration Act.
LikeLike
tawna21 said
Thank you, David. You have had the courage to amend, to many, what came across as a pretty blunt statement. Many were able to read it and brush it aside, many were not. Once again, you have shown us your mature soul and shouldered the responsibility of making things right (even though the quote was not originally from your writings).
You, David Archuleta, are still the man with the voice that I want to listen to… a lot!
LikeLike
sandybeaches9 said
Hopefully he will leave the church quotes in the church. If you are of his faith you will receive the information from them anyway. So many other religions in the world and stars just don’t go there normally. He will learn. I have always wished that he had a PR person looking out for what he writes.
LikeLike
gladys1961 said
I was trying to find the correct translation but it is impossible, I apologize, but I will write in Spanish:
David: a veces nuestro mundo no ha hecho bien los deberes, no se guía por los cánones tradicionales, es decir no hace lo que debería, La mayoria de las veces nuestro mundo hace lo que puede,y muchas veces lo hace mal.
Por favor, no te disculpes por tus pensamientos. Ellos son tuyos y no has ofendido a nadie.
Lamentablemente, esa parte de la fama es sombría, por que siempre habrá alguien que analizara cada punto, cada coma, cada espacio vació en todo lo que escribas. Nosotros sabemos que vos no sabes ofender. Y eso es lo único que necesitamos saber.
LikeLike
Abrra said
Google Translation of Gladys’ message #21
David : Sometimes our world has not done their homework well , is not guided by the traditional canons , that is not doing what it should , Most of the time our world does what he can , and often does wrong.
Please do not apologize for your thoughts . They are yours and you have not offended anyone .
Unfortunately , that part of fame is grim , because someone will analyze every point, every comma , every empty space in everything you write. We know that you do not know offend. And that’s all we need to know .
LikeLike
gladys1961 said
gracias my sis.
LikeLike
djafan said
I’m going to try here.
Gladys says:
David: Sometimes our world has not done their homework well, it is not guided by traditional channels, in other words it’s not doing what it should. Most of the time our world does what it can, and often it does wrong.
Please do not apologize for your thoughts . They are yours and you have not offended anyone .
Unfortunately, that part of fame is grim, because someone will analyze every point, every comma, every empty space in everything you write. We know that you do not know how to offend. And that’s all we need to know .
LikeLike
skydancer1x said
Never crossed my mind that David sent out those tweets with malice towards anyone. The hammer comes down hard nowadays. David is probably one of the kindest ,most respectful celebrities on the planet, but we live in crazy times . I’m glad he clarified with a statement, beautifully written, I might add. 😊 💗👍
LikeLike
skydancer1x said
(((Gladys)))💗
LikeLike
emmegirl14 said
I have to say I agree with the majority here, I have wished for sometime his tweets would pertain more to his music and less “preaching.” I hate to use that term because I think he truly just wants to share with others what helps him in life and believes it may help them too.
I hate the hate, but I hope he understands the reasons behind the backlash and learns from it. I think it is tough also for fans who have been loyally waiting for 3+ years to get beyond the mission and the adjustment period and it seems he is still on a mission. As far as the fans go, there hasn’t been much to hang your hat on so to speak.
Dayzee, I’ve thought the same thing for awhile how ironic it is I used to enjoy his wisdom quotes and now they often make me cringe.
LikeLike
Abrra said
As promised, Sunday’s puzzle on Monday 🙂 It a tough one this time!
http://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=1c23980e7319
Abrra
LikeLike
tawna21 said
Holy Cow, Abrra!!!! There’s some serious brain strain in completing the puzzle!! But of course, it’s all worth it!!! Thanks! 🙂
LikeLike
jans11 said
Gladys…♥♥
Abrra…love that photo of David, but the puzzle itself is rather challenging. It would probably be a little easier if I concentrated more; was also watching my Royals home opener beat the Chicago White Sox…so far, 10-1. 🙂
LikeLike
Abrra said
Yes, no colors to help this time. It’s all black/white/grey. /giggle
Abrra
LikeLike
skydancer1x said
I do think Davids decision to greatly cut back communicating with fans (his own thoughts other than quotes ) didn’t help the situation he found himself in. Maybe that’s why his apology made me cry today. Hearing heartfelt words from David .Just hearing from him in his own words is a reminder to me what a good human being he is. 💗
LikeLike
djafan said
Sky, I cried when I read the vile hate. It doesn’t matter what side you fall on, he should or shouldn’t tweet religious quotes, it does not deserve death, rape, murderous tweets. I’m appalled that a faction of society has no problem with this.
Reading his apology made me hurt for him.
MJ’s calling out Jared for his deceitful headline.
@mjsbigblog: Why are outlets assuming David’s tweets had ANYTHING to do with the Indiana law? #ihatethenewscycle @JustJared
LikeLike
bluesky4home said
“Romantic love is incomplete. It is a prelude. Love is nourished by the coming of children, who spring from the fountain of love expressed between a man and a woman in marriage.”
I don’t have much of an opinion about what DA tweets or does not tweet. Twitter has always been a bit of a mystery to me. I am intrigued however, by the quote above and the differing responses that it has engendered.
Taken at face value there seem to be two topics represented here. One, that “romantic love” is a prelude to a different kind of love. Hopefully one that grows and can bear the weight of life that challenges our relationships, our families, and our loved ones. A love that deepens and matures and becomes more than we ever imagined.
The second topic is that love is nourished by the addition of children, children who “spring from the fountain of love” expressed by a man and a woman in marriage. I guess I don’t see the controversy. (He did not say that children were the only thing that might nourish love, nor do I believe – in the context of the talk – that that is what he meant.)
The times we live in can tempt us all to see and hear things that are not really there nor have actually been said. I am trying to think of a time before this that such a quote would cause so much controversy.
My own family is made up of just about every lifestyle and belief system (at one point or another) that could be represented. We somehow all get along and love each other. I have birth children, adopted, and one foster. I have experienced the longing for children that did not come. I have a granddaughter who was given up for adoption as a new infant, a lovely woman who we are just now getting to know. I can well believe that many of those who post here might have similar situations within their own families or close acquaintances.
Every individual has a story that is somehow different and yet somehow the same. What causes me sadness is the tendency to presume separation and “hate” within our common bond of humanity. Especially at this time in the world when there are those who truly are being “despised”, driven, enslaved, and murdered just because of who they are or what they believe.
My hope is that we can be patient with those who might rush to judgement, that we can collectively, confidently, and respectfully model true “brotherhood” between ourselves and our neighbors.
I have no doubt that this is what Dear DA wants as well. How could his music express a love for all humanity that did not come from his own heart?
Probably, he will make a mistake now and then. Probably so will I. I am grateful that there is a love – collective, individual, and supernal – that is greater than us all.
We need it.
Thank you all so much just for being who you are. I am instructed, uplifted, and edified by you all always.
bluesky
LikeLike
bluesky4home said
Great puzzle, Abrra! Djafan…. (((((( hugs))))))
LikeLike
jans11 said
After reading more and more at the vicious attacks on David’s quotes, I finally broke down. It is so terrible the way people verbally attack other people just because they believe differently, with them thinking their way is the only way. The world is in a sad state the way things are now. Shot down being a Christian is absolutely horrible and I feel that David is being shot down verbally and I feel so sad for him. Hope he doesn’t quit talking to us altogether. David is the essence of good and happiness. Carrie Underwood speaks of her Christian beliefs and she doesn’t get the verbal attacks like David has. Just don’t understand it. The school of hard knocks is being very hard on David right now and I hope the subject is closed soon.
LikeLike
angelofdja said
Bluesky, so beautifully said. I stumble with trying to say what you just did. I thank you for every word! I also wish, hope, & pray that David has a tougher skin than I do! Many of those tweet responses crushed my heart…
LikeLike
MT said
If I’m this upset about all this, I can’t imagine how David must be feeling right now. My heart hurts for him. 😦
He’s never liked the fame. He’s going to like it even less now. He may never tweet again.
LikeLike
bebereader said
For a Forever Fan of David’s, it was a sad day to see him hurt in this way. We who have been following him for seven years now know that he is one of the most kind-hearted people one could ever encounter in life. I hope he moves on and realizes that this too shall pass. I left a message for him on his official site. You may want to also.
We’ll be changing the thread in a matter of minutes.
LikeLike
bebereader said
——–> ——–> ———-> New article
LikeLike
cc halo said
Carrie Underwood is sometimes attacked by other Christians for her strong, unequivocal support of gay rights and gay marriage. Wouldn’t mind seeing David following her example.
LikeLike
Patricia Ann said
As a lesbian, I have always appreciated never having felt excluded from all of David’s artistic and philanthropic efforts in the world. When I first read the tweet yesterday, I did feel excluded and thought, “maybe I just won’t read his tweets anymore – but I can NEVER exclude myself from his music’. It simply brings me on an ecstatic journey to the Spirit of Love, Compassion – the truly eternal things. Thanks for the apology – it meant a lot and now I will joyfully continue to follow your social networks. You make me laugh, you inspire me and I simply love you. Let’s let go of ALL the labels, shall we???
LikeLike
Abrra said
Patricia Ann
Thank you for you kind comment. David has ways shown the kind of person he is by his actions. By using someone else’s words and seeing how they can be misinterpreted, he has surely learned a valuable lesson. I saw many tweets from the LDS conference but his seemed to get the most attention.
LikeLike
bluesky4home said
Patricia Ann, my own daughter is as you are. We share heartache, love, and (as much as anyone can) each other’s burdens. We are not angry with each other, but accept that our love is “family deep”, one of those eternal things you mention.
I agree with you whole-heartedly: labels seem to come with a predetermined set of expectations and judgements. Thank you for your comment, and open and loving contribution. Thank you for sharing your heart. It truly sings.
LikeLike
poof said
I try to only comment when I have something to add to the discussion, and today I feel compelled to comment. But my thoughts are so jumbled, this may not make much sense. I have loved David and his music for seven years. Hardly a day goes by I don’t listen to his music and check here. I know his heart is kind. But. It is impossible in these times to be in the public spotlight and not have your words and actions analyzed. It is impossible in these times of changing laws and beliefs to not think your statements will be taken as moral, political and social statements as well as religious ones. I am heartily weary of David’s tweets that imply judgement and prejudice. The Indiana Law, protecting (?) religious rights was quickly called out for what it was. His tweets so soon after this situation, in my mind, ties him to it. If he didn’t know that would be how many would react to his tweets, he should have.
For me, David needs to openly state his views. His quotes are confusing and piece meal. For me to continue to follow David, I need to hear David state clearly that he truly believes all people are God’s children no matter their ways of expressing love and how they choose and need to live their lives. If he can’t or won’t say this, that is certainly his right.
Loving David has always been more than just the music for me. He has represented goodness and beauty. I felt he accepted all and was an inclusive person. He brought me out of huge sadness when I lost two family members. He has helped carry me through rough times. It doesn’t feel that way anymore. Maybe I did put him on a pedestal, after all.
LikeLike
poof said
It seems to me this discussion should have been for more than one day.
LikeLike
bebereader said
Due to more interest shown for this topic, we have brought the article back for continued discussion.
LikeLike
bebereader said
Bringing comments back:
djafan said
Tuesday, April 7, 2015 at 10:44 AM e
Bluesky, ((hugs)) That was a beautiful comment. And you’re right,my family is also a mixture of all that you mentioned. Some I agree with others I don’t but judgement and hate are never ever involved. Love and respect trumps all.
LikeLike
bebereader said
bluesky4home said
Tuesday, April 7, 2015 at 11:20 AM e
Djafan – we must not let our differences divide us. We are strong when we stand together in love and respect and mutual kindness and consideration. Our humanity demands it, our safety requires it, our hope springs from it. Nothing is more wonderful than life together. In this, we are “one Voice”
What DA’s voice stirs within us, we have within us. That is the miracle. That is SO worth the effort of holding on.
LikeLike
bluesky4home said
Dear Bebereader, would it be possible to put my comment from the new article here as well? I appreciate you. ^_^ (and maybe Djafans?)
LikeLike
bluesky4home said
Ackkkkk.. You are faster than the average bear. Just saying.
LikeLike
Abrra said
Poof
I am guilty of being ignorant of all the angst surrounding the Indiana law issue. Frankly, I am not affiliated with any organized religion and I hold no prejudice against anyone’s life choices. David is young and may not realize that it’s in his best interest as a “public persona” to stay informed. He says that things happen for a reason. I bet he is pondering what lesson all this is supposed to mean in his life.
I hope that whatever trials you have faced by loss in the past, that you have found peace now.
Abrra
LikeLike
poof said
Hi Abrra, Bebe and all,
Thank you so much for putting this back up. I have always loved coming here because it is a place of kindness, respect and reflection. I don’t think I have ever written one word that wasn’t in full support of David, his career and who he is. Today is tough for me in that way.
Angst is a good word for how I feel about all this. Let’s keep talking.
LikeLike
Abrra said
Poof
As I said up thread, when I saw a big spike in views on the site on Saturday, I knew we had to spend some time sorting out what it all meant. No matter how the twitter event has affected us, it has been a huge wake up call for David. His statement shows that he realizes that his tweets are read by more than just his fans. That is where he needs more understanding about being a public persona.
Abrra
LikeLike
Abrra said
That smile 🙂
Abrra
LikeLike
potluck8 said
Poof, I truly don’t think that David thought that his tweet would upset anyone, it was just something he believes in. I don’t know David, but being a fan for so long I can’t in my right mind think that David would hurt anyone or stir up any controversary. He did the right thing in apologizing but I know many people will not buy into it or believe him.
LikeLike
MT said
I believe David always means well and has the best of intentions. He has a good heart, loves the world, and wants to make it a better place. I applaud him for his honest intentions. But, David isn’t like us. If I tweet out something that gets misinterpreted, it will only be seen by a few people and I can easily clarify. David’s words go out to millions, to a very diverse group of people with different lifestyles and beliefs who all see things differently. It’s something he needs to always be aware of IF he wants a mainstream career. I’m not even really sure if that’s what he wants anymore.
I believe in freedom of speech and David has every right to say anything he wants, but he will have to deal with the fallout. Unfortunately, with fame comes additional pitfalls and it’s not pretty, as we’ve seen since this weekend. For his sake, I hope he learns to better navigate the pothole-filled road of social media.
I hope I don’t offend anyone with this part but, I ‘ve also begun to feel a bit alienated. David’s a devoutly religious person. I am not. The fact that what we’ve gotten from him is primarily religious in nature for the past year has had me backing away.
Those of you here who are regulars know that I used to comment A LOT. LOL I’ve always been a huge fan and I love his voice. I also love the people here that I’ve come to know. ♥ I don’t comment as much anymore because I just don’t have anything to say regarding the religious and life-lesson quotes sent out by David over the past year.
I miss the days when it was all about the music, the days when it seemed like singing gave him joy and he passed that joy on to us through song. I’m still here because I hope to see that again.
#StillloveDavid #loveyouall #stillhangingaround #notgivingup #waitingforthemusic
LikeLike
bluesky4home said
“Loving David has always been more than just the music for me. He has represented goodness and beauty. I felt he accepted all and was an inclusive person.”
Dear Poof, thank you for sharing your angst. Big Hug.
I can only speak for myself, not for DA. At the same time, I have never seen him do or say anything that intimated he felt anything but love and inclusion for others of all beliefs and all walks of life.
Having a belief system that is different from someone else’s does not mean that love is lessened. In fact, love can substantially increase as we learn to see each other as complex, incomplete, and striving beings all on the same planet together. It would be kind of amazing if we all believed exactly the same thing or the same way. Our seeking, searching and learning all come at different times and in different ways and from different sources and different life experiences.
(okay… I am getting bit “bluesky-ish” here. sorry for “holding-forth”, as it were. I just feel that there is indeed a lack of civility in our dealings with one another, but to me, it is often a lack of good modeling by those in many positions to provide it. Because of this, each of us has the invitation to become the “kinder angels” that are so needed in our society just now. We will not always be able to depend on the news, etc. to model who we really are as people. So, perhaps we can invite and defend each other?)
(please forgive my loooong bluesky….. thoughts:)
What is the same is that we are human, and therefore we have this thing called choice to work out. This makes us different from the animals. We might think they are fortunate to have a simpler life, and not to have to worry about what decisions may bring in pain, or results, good or bad. Yet, it is this same searching and deciding and learning and growing that makes us capable to grow, to become more, and to share what we gain with others. We create.
Our joy is fulfilled as we each offer what is best of who we are. For some, this “best” includes personal decisions that others may not agree with. That is part of life. What makes it hard sometimes is that we can begin to think that others – if they believe differently than us – ARE different from us. And then feel threatened by those “differences”.
DA has seen (we could say he has been “blessed” with) some difficulties in his young life that have brought a particular tenderness to his soul, a soul that was naturally tender to begin with. If I ever see him being cruel, judgmental, proud, callous, or self-righteous – then I might worry.
However, the fact that he has a “peculiar” belief system, that fact alone, does not pre-determine his motives or inner feelings. No more his nor anyone’s of any belief or life-style. We each must stand on our own in that place of choice, and do the best we can. The times we live in may make this difficult. But when was it ever easy?
It is my feeling that taking responsibility for that personal place is my life work. And perhaps the work of us all. I can support anyone who is doing their best to be nonjudgmental, kind, considerate, and at the same time willing to search, to ask, to seek and to find. And then to apply (most often in trepidation of failing) what we learn – to bless our own lives and the lives of others.
I may not agree with someone else’s choices or conclusions. But I will defend their right to make those choices and to draw those conclusions. How can I not, when I want the same considerations made for me in my own journey?
I cannot judge them by my own choices. At the same time, I can ask not to be judged by theirs.
Quite probably, this was not helpful, Poof. *_*
(I can see my boys rolling their eyes at me as they lovingly hug and put up with me, like they do when their mom becomes “passionate”.) But please know this: I am sorry for your pain. And I hope it clears with the first notes of song when you hear his voice. Because that voice – as far as I can see – comes from a place so clear, so tender, and so loving, that despite his ((must have them!)) weaknesses, his only pure intent is to be a conduit for healing, courage, inspiration and love.
I can accept that from anyone whose intent is the same. Because this is our greatest gift to each other as humans: the encouragement to be more. As Tiny Tim would say: God bless us, every-one!
bluesky
LikeLike
bluesky4home said
MT, I would love to hear your comments, regardless. I love your humor!
And I too, hope there is TONS of new music …. SOON.
LikeLike
potluck8 said
Bluesky, Beautifully put.
Mt. I hope we hear more on his music too. I also hope that this insident doesn’t alienate David any further.
LikeLike
MT said
Bluesky {{Hugs}}
Don’t worry. When the music comes out, you won’t be able to shut me up. 😀
LikeLike
Abrra said
From Dan Clark’s facebook. He talks about his time with David overseas and says David is his hero.
Dan Clark shared David Archuleta’s post.
1 hr ·
It’s been said, “To know and not to do, is not to know at all.” So someone needs to illuminate what the silent majority are thinking and talking about. Out of my admiration for David Archuleta I guess it’s my turn. This post triggered an awakening to the fact that many different scenarios are linked to the same message. David Archuleta is the purest, most unconditionally loving, genuinely caring and guiless young man on planet earth, who would never intentionally hurt anyone for any reason. Most of us are tired of the vocal minority, hyper-sensitive insecure people in our world who are always looking for reasons to pull the race card, sexism, bigotry and religion cards to push their cause and agenda. During the NCAA Final Four tournament, when the African American basketball player from Kentucky made the vulgar comment on national television calling the caucasion center from Wisconsin a racially sensitive word, suddenly we see university leaders, sports commentators and the African American community rationalizing, “This Harrison kid is just an immature kid who made a mistake so lets cut him some slack,” suggesting that the “N” word isnt as offensive as everybody claims. However, if the white player from Wisconsin had made the same unacceptable comment about the black player from Kentucky, Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpten would have immediately flown to Indianapolis to lead marches down mainstreet to insight riots that inspire the ultra sensitive crazies to burn their own stores down (?) and would have petitioned the NCAA to keep the white Wisconsin player from playing in the championship game. Come on people! We can’t tolerate double standards in racism, reverse racism, or when it comes to a discussion about sexual orientation. Doesn’t it seem strange that some of our wonderful friends and colleagues in the LGBT community put others down while expecting us to lift them up? As in the case of religion, if you want to know about Jesus and His amazing ministry, divine mission and life of service, do you ask Judas Iscariot or one of the evil spirits who trembled at the very mention of Christ’s name? OR, should you ask Mary, the mother of Jesus, and Peter, James and John who really knew Jesus and loved him and saw His countless acts of healing and comforting service? FYI – I spent 18 days with David Archuleta on our recent Military Tribute Tour to perform for and inspire our combat troops in Afghanistan, Bahrain, Djibouti and Kuwait all along the Iraqi border, ending our trip in Ethiopia. David and I were roommates the entire time in Afghanistan where we had many deep conversations about what matters most. I watched him kneel every night and pray to his Heavenly Father. I watched him unconditionally love and reach out to everyone of every race, religion and gender. I have interviewed David for five hours in my home, asking him tough and revealing questions about himself and his opinions and life. I know the heart and mind of David. I know of several occasions when David visited young children battling cancer in a hospital and where he even went to visit young children with cancer at their homes – all without anyone knowing about it, and no media exposure – just to bring comfort and hope and by singing a song or two, put a smile on a sick kid’s face! I say to the world, David Archuleta is my role model, my hero, my friend, and each of us should hope to become more like him in his ability to be in the world and not of it!!! Usually when we criticize others and catch them doing something wrong it is because we are stuck in our own insecure misery and must put others down to make ourselves feel better about who we are not! When it comes to racism and bigotry and sexism I join the strong attitudes of basketball greats Charles Barkley and Kareem Abdul Jabbar who always speak up when a racially tense predicament emerges as in the cases of the former owner of the LA Clippers, the police fiasco in Ferguson Missouri, and now with this recent racial slur by a Kentucky player. I agree with Charles and Kareem when they point out that all of us are guilty at some point in our lives of being racist – “he who is without sin let him cast the first stone.” Therefore, we all need to calm down, relax, catch each other doing something right, and stop suspiciously thinking that we brothers and sisters in the family of humanity are inherently bad. No! We are inherently good! We don’t see things as they are – we see things as WE are – when we get ourselves right the world is right! I agree with the amazing David Archuleta: let us all live and let live and encourage one another to do the same. Let us unite in helping to protect the rights of all of us to worship God according to the dictates of our own conscience – worshipping Him how, where and when we may!! I ALSO CHALLENGE YOU TO BUY DAVID ARCHULETA’S MUSIC AND HIS NEW ALBUM AND ATTEND HIS CONCERTS, so as you listen to his lyrics and feel the emotion in is angelic voice, you will hear and experience what I am writing about here today. God bless us all. Remember: the same God who made you, made me too!!
David Archuleta
I apologize if I have offended anyone with the quote I sent out Saturday. I guess I didn’t think about the line “expressed between a man and a woman in marriage” being stressed when the whole quote didn’t fit in just 1 tweet. I am sorry my intentions were misunderstood, as my main focus was that too often romance is looked at as the end-all when there is so much more. The bonds that can be there within a family and raising kids, as that is the most valuable thing I have: my family. I do hope however, that whoever may have been offended may know I respect everyone’s freedom to believe and live as they choose. I hope others can respect what I value most in my life as well. Again, I’m sorry and please forgive me if I offended you. David
Abrra
LikeLike
djafan said
Incredible few days but happy to see the support coming in. Whatever our beliefs are I so appreciate the respectful dialogue and exchange of thoughts happening here. It’s a breath of fresh air.
Than you Bebe for getting this thread back up.
LikeLike
djafan said
This on David’s facebook from teamarchie!!!
David Archuleta Other States are being lined up! ~ Team Archie
Unlike · Reply · 11 · 1 hr
LikeLike
jans11 said
Abrra, thanks for bringing over Dan’s blog. Happy to see it on FB earlier. Loving all the positive vibes.
A little bit more on my 2 cents is that I don’t understand egotistical bigots that want and think things should be their way only. They tend to have the biggest mouths demanding apologies from everyone that don’t agree with them. I have my own beliefs too, but I don’t demand that everyone believe as I do and neither does David. Yes, people should live and live…as long as it’s not hurting their fellow man…ie ISIS! David is the most gentle person ever and like I said before, if everyone does as he does, the world would be more peaceful. I don’t mean they have to believe as he does, just respect their fellow man! David didn’t mean to hurt anyone’s feelings. I’m just waiting to hear those new songs he’s been writing and recording! Whoo hoo…that is something to look forward to. 🙂
LikeLike
tawna21 said
This was in the elevator, on a cute little poster, at my mom’s assisted living facility today… coincidence? yes, probably…. but very interesting none the less….
“Be who you are and say what you mean. Because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind!” –Dr. Suess
Thanks for bringing Dan Clark’s blog over.
MT… miss you ‘_’ And yes, like everyone else here…. waiting for that new music! 🙂
LikeLike
poof said
I have appreciated reading everyone’s comments. I value all of them.
My reaction to David’s tweet(s) was not an intellectual one, but an immediate, emotional punch. I am very hopeful David will see this situation as a learning experience. He is a man now and one with a lot of people believing in him, listening to him and interpreting everything he says and all that he does. That is a heavy load for anyone and probably even more so for David who is so introspective and sensitive.
Because of all of this, it is even more important for David’s messages to be clear. As long as he is sending out quotes and talking about his religious life, we should have no doubts as to what he is saying to us. It needs to be said in plain english and not in other people’s words. I have always felt as many of you have said, as long as his actions show inclusion, support and kindness, that is all that matters. But writing quotes that can be interpreted in very negative ways is an action.
Until David’s communications are only about his musical career and his music, I don’t think that is an unfair request: Be open about your views or just stick to talking about music.
LikeLike
refnaf said
“I am not in agreement with the quote from LDS President Packer”
Me either….. The idea of eternal marriage is not in my belief system….. I believe we are gender less in the next life and cannot imagine it any other way!!! When I first read David’s tweet of the quote it hurt…. And I am glad he apologized.
I also don’t understand peeps saying he should not have apologized…. If peeps are hurt by something, even unintentionally, an apology is still a good idea Perceived hurt still hurts!!
Thanks for this post (((((((((Abrra)))))))))
The comments here are great …. Respectful and searching for peace…. I admire that, and all of you
New music is COMING!!! Can I get an Amen?????
LikeLike
djafan said
LikeLike
djafan said
So glad David is at a Stevie Wonder concert and with India Arie to boot!
Beautiful quote!
LikeLike
poof said
Yes, Refnaf,,, AMEN.
#69 Just what the doctor ordered. AMEN to that too.
LikeLike
djafan said
@DavidArchie: Stevie Wonder brought Steven Tyler on stage tonight in Nashville. Amazing show! http://t.co/1VCbTepEsN
And he tweets!
LikeLike
Abrra said
Ref
Amen to music 🙂
Abrra
LikeLike
Patricia Ann said
Bluesky! Thanks for sharing that intimate fact about your family – your love and struggles. I think all people who love each other will sometimes struggle – comes with the territory – whoever we are! Of all the sites I’ve viewed, THIS ONE, The Voice, has had by far the most balanced and loving discussion. We will all get past this and perhaps it will help David grow and remember how much we love him. Thx, everyone! Not one thing anyone has said here has made me feel like a lesser being! A first! Much love and blessings to all – such beautiful people here 🙂 Abrra – thx for your courage taking the initial tone in this article – it took some! We’ll all get there eventually 🙂 I have faith!
LikeLike
Abrra said
Patricia Ann
Your comment made my day! Thank you!
” Of all the sites I’ve viewed, THIS ONE, The Voice, has had by far the most balanced and loving discussion.”
I am proud that the comments here avoid the drama.
Abrra
LikeLike