The Future Belongs to Those Who Believe in the Beauty of Their Dreams” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt
Of course, like any social group, we fans come in all shapes and sizes. Our emotions, expectations, reactions and outlook on what was, what is and what will be, span the continuum of what is possible, and, maybe sometimes, even the impossible…or maybe not as impossible as it may seem.
After all, at the core, this fan experience is all about being human, both individually and as a human chain of fans reacting, embracing and supporting not only the indisputable artistry but also the exceptionally rare humanity of a unique singer/songwriter, David Archuleta.
We each have our own story as to how we got caught in the ever widening net of David fandom. That story is special to each of us as it tells our origins, our beginnings. Many have shared their unique story and each has a special flavor, a 
reason for being and a connection to the universe of David fans. Each story strums a harmonious chord on our own heart strings.
For the most part, this is a joyous ride, an ever widening adventure. For sure, like all life experiences, it is rich and full of emotional ups and downs. As fans we have limited impact individually. As fans, if we exist in certain demographics or join certain groups, we have more impact.
As fans some of us have joined in activities that allow us to give voice to our insights, our wants, our needs, our opinions via cyber fan sites, twitter, commenting, charitable works, etc. As fans some of us have connected with other fans in this cyber world to share our ups and downs.
Right now, if we measured the collective fan sentiment on the cyber fans sites on the “Fan-O-Meter,”© we’d see a trend toward down. And this would be completely normal, understandable, and OK to feel that way…expectations unmet do result in feeling down.
We also can feel “down” when we see ourselves with limited avenues to offer “assistance.” For, the need to “help” is strong is all of us…we are caring people who, in my opinion in getting to know the different fan sites and fans over the last two plus years, have a genuine need to help, and especially to take action in times of need.
To accomplish great things, we must not only act, but also dream not only plan, but also believe. ~ Anatole France
And there is for sure a full out effort in all the arenas we can provide assistance taking place in support of our favorite artist. And, we are participating in those efforts that fit our outlook, our reactions, and our temperament. Kudos to all that everyone does! *major applause and praise*
The upside is that the future, is yet to unfold, it’s uncertain. As one door closes, others open. And we have such a collective sense of absolute certainty, of what the future will be.
And so, one of the big reasons we visit the cyber world as frequently as we choose is to glean information and to either see others’ reactions or to speculate, share our insights, opinions, finds, stories, outlooks…our Ups and our Downs.
I know we each find our comfort when things seem “down” in different arenas and by different methods.
Only passions, great passions can elevate the soul to great things.” ~ Denis Diderot
My comfort is seeing what others are thinking and doing. I’ve received so many unanticipated joys and gifts so far in this fan experience. My passion is also an internal conviction, a belief of what will be for David’s career. When and what form, well, that exists in the “to be continued” realm of this delightful experience of being a David Archuleta fan.
To Dream the Impossible Dream…
This my quest
To follow that star
No matter how hopeless
No matter how far…And I know if I’ll only be true
To this glorious quest…The world will be better for this…
To reach the unreachable star
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What’s your passion? your comfort? your dream?
{{{Kizzi}}} Love your title! lol
I think you nailed it when you mentioned “connection” … I think ultimately that’s what draws us all together on this elevator ride — our connection with David’s music and our shared experience that has expanded into even deeper friendships and lasting bonds. … love the quotes you used too! <3
TOfan(Quote)
Isn’t the use of an “elevator” in this just crazily, wildly, funny? and true?!!! And those butterflies, woo hoo! Love ya!
Kizzi(Quote)
Great write up, Kizzi! As always. I have to admit, I haven’t been following things so close lately, so I haven’t noticed the overall “down” trend in fan mood as much as you have. Everyone’s experience is going to be different, as you say. And everyone’s means of navigating the fan experience will vary accordingly.
Shortly after the release of SBL, my approach shfited somewhat, as did my thinking. I’ve “let go” of many of my epectations for David and his career. As I said, everyone is different. I’ve had to do what I’ve had to do to keep the fan experience an enjoyable one for me. I’ve also started thinking of David in a different context than I used to, and that has helped. I don’t go to sites where fans are endlessley debating charts and sales and industry details–ironic, because I posted here not long ago about obsessing over such things. But, I’ve let all that go for the most part. I don’t do it anymore nor can I participate in or observe the conversation. And I can honestly say, I’ve been a happy fan since making that adjustment. Following all the minutiae is not for me so much anymore. Not if I want to stay sane. ha!! But that is JUST me. That’s what I have had to do to keep enjoying the music.
I LOVE the album. I’m so happy for David. What an experience it must have been to participate so much more in the creation of his music! And I look forward to seeing him in concert soon, whereever that might be, along with my David friends. David will be fine. I don’t know anything else. But I know he will be just fine, better than fine, and his musical adventures have just begun. Looking forward to whatever he has in store for us!
Houstonrufus(Quote)
Houstonrufus – I just love your description of a shift in perspective. I have had a perspective “correction” too. I also really LOVE the album. I play it as an album listening experience which isn’t the norm for me. Reminds me of my college days when I could listen to a whiole album and appreciate all the songs. And like you I am just so da’gum happy for David to be living his dream.
Kizzi(Quote)
Kizzi, That is one of my most favorite songs from my childhood. How appropriate to now see it in relation to David.
“My passion is also an internal conviction, a belief of what will be for David’s career. When and what form, well, that exists in the “to be continued” realm of this delightful experience of being a David Archuleta fan.”
As some fret David tweets about comfy clothes sitting by a heater, eating 5 times more now like a bear reading to hibernate and then tweets his word of wisdom regarding pride. David quotes give me perspective when ever a little frustration wants to sneak in as long with the thoughts and writings gifted writers like you , Angelica, Tofan, GGdoors and others all around the David fan world. Thank you.
djafan(Quote)
djafan {{{{hugs}}}} Thank you so much for your kind comments. Hope we get to meet up at a concert soon.
Kizzi(Quote)
Thanks for such a beautiful article. I have to admit that I had been feeling really sad about the low sales and extremely concerned about David; it was like the joy of hearing his beautiful voice and the meaning behind each song was eclipsed by my concerns. Visiting some of the fansites sometimes was not helping. Your article is helping me realize that the privilege of having experienced David’s journey has not come to an end. There is more to come for this wonderful young man and we should just continue enjoying and sharing his music; after all, that’s what David wants us to do. You are an amazing writer and I am happy I read this article today.
ana milagros(Quote)
Hi Ana. You are so very right. The privilege of experiencing David’s journey is alive and vibrantly well. His music is amazing. Success is measured in many ways. Thank you so much for your kind words and sharing your insights!
Kizzi(Quote)
…….to dream the impossible dream, no matter how hopeless, no matter how far.Like david i used to be like him,to sing and to express my own thoughts and feeling through songs.No matter ,if it is my ups or downs, as much as I could inspires others.
Michal Dave(Quote)
the songs contained a very meaningful as you go reflecting to your own “other side of down”.And mostly the songs gave it’s full respond to it.
Michal Dave(Quote)