My Best Days

12.02.09

As we travel on this journey called life, we sometimes have to go through things that we don’t want to go through.  We don’t choose these things, nor do we care for them. But, sometimes, unwanted situations are thrown into our laps.  The question then becomes “what do we do?”  Many of you reading this can probably think back a week, a month, or even a year, and recall difficulties that you have encountered. One’s that have made you feel as if you have been “set back”.  However, it is an awesome thing when we can see a glimmer of hope in the midst of a tough situation, latch on to it, and build a new life.

When I was in the thick of my depressed state, it was very hard for me to see a silver lining from my position.  Quite honestly, I shot down the possibility of hope numerous times.  While I knew I needed something better to happen for me, I am not sure that I believed it could happen.  It almost cost me the opportunity for my American Idol audition.  A last second decision and support from my closest friends helped get me over the hump, and out of my cloud of hurt and frustration.  If only for a second, I was able to think differently and dream “what if?”  It was this window of hopeful thinking that allowed me to get past the first round of auditions, carrying me over into the second and third rounds, and eventually to the live television show.  Each of those steps opened my heart more to believe I could have a purpose in life again.

On November 16th, 2009 I began a promotional tour for my new single entitled “My Best Days Are Ahead of Me”.  It truly speaks of where I feel I am at this point in my life.  I have been given the glimmer of hope that I’ve longed for through my music career and Sophia’s Heart.  I have already experienced better days since the darkest season of my life, and I understand now that there are better days to come; my best days!

I want to express my thanks to you who have shown unconditional love and support for both my musical career and non-profit cause.  It is largely because of you that my dreams have become a reality.  You have inspired me to continue on, and I now want to encourage all of you to move forward and walk into your best days!





Comments (18)

 Hi, Danny!! This album is awesome---every song is so meaningful and your voice is incredible. You are an inspiration to so many and I thank you for sharing your music and your story. Life can be hard sometimes and music can be such a help. Keep singing!!!!!!

Love, Sandy

Posted by: joshkacey
Posted On: 07/08/10 at 03:03:05 PM

 Hey Danny,

I just wanted to let you know that Sophia and your story has made a huge impact in my life. I can relate to Sophia's story in so many ways, her heart had trouble and mine was in my head-a pituitary tumor. For the last 10 years i have had to have multiple surgeries and the scars to prove it. Each surgery came with a long recovery, but I did it because I couldn't stand the thought that I'd miss out on this amazing life.  Long story short, I had lost hope because after 10 years countless tests and 5 surgeries I wasn't better and the doctors had only one last option to literally give me my life back. I didn't want to hope that it would work because i didn't want to get my heart broken again. About this time, your song My Best Days came out and it really gave me the strength to fight to get my life back. Thank you so much for recording this powerful song. Knowing your story makes the message even more tangible.   Oh ya, the good news is that this last surgery worked and I have my life back!! This may sound silly but in all honesty I feel like I have a new body and I truly believe that my best days are ahead of me. In fact, I'm gearing up to go to PA school in the Fall so I can pay it forward to others like Sophia and myself.
Cheers, 

Jaimie
Posted by: dancininrain
Posted On: 04/19/10 at 03:03:22 AM

Danny, It's so good to talk to you. I just followed and stayed glued to you throughout American Idol and love you, what you do and what you are about. You illuminate love and it comes thru the airwaves in such a powerful way!! I would like to know if you plan on traveling? I would love to see you in person....sending Love from Above. I know this Holiday season was hard for you, but I hope you find comfort in HIM!! The Christ of Christmas....God Bless You!!!
Posted by: lsjohnson64@bellsouth.net
Posted On: 12/29/09 at 04:27:00 PM

Danny,

You are such an inspiration to me and I truly hope that everything you choose to do is worth it. You may not know me, but I have met you and i know what is inside your heart. It is nothing but pure good.

I know that whatever path you take in life, it will be a good one. I know that whatever you do, you will be greatly rewarded.

And most of all, I know that everything you do, Sophia is watching over you and that she is EXTREMELY proud of you for everything you have done.

With that said, remember to follow your heart every day and know that whatever you do, I will be here with you every step of the way, mentally at least, if never physically.

Much love and appreciation to you and your family and friends.

-Kelley Burke
Conway, MA

Posted by: shfgirl1994
Posted On: 12/28/09 at 02:18:16 PM

Danny, you are truly an inspiration.

I enjoyed every minute of listening to you perform on Idol, even more-so knowing that the jaw-droppingly amazing vocals were coming from someone with such a warm & genuine heart.  You were gracious, and humble & I could tell from the first time I heard you sing, that you were destined for great things to come.

This blog entry is particularly touching to me, because I know what it's like to be at a point where you don't think you can go on.  I came from an abusive home.  When I was 19 I realized that it had come down to leave or die.  I made the right choice but became technically homeless and had no choice but to start my life over from scratch.

Thankfully, I had my older brother, his wife & their 4 kids who took me in while I pieced my life back together.  They welcomed me with open arms and the 7 of us shared a 3 bedroom duplex for 2.5 months. 
After I was well enough to get an apartment, I slept on the floor for a couple months while I worked 2 full-time jobs in order to save up for necessities, and graciously accepted hand-me-downs from people who would have thrown away the items I couldn't afford to get for myself.

It is now 11 years later, and with the love of my brother's family, and the hard-work & determination I still don't know how I found, I have built a life for myself.  If I hadn't had their emotional support, I know I would be here right now, and knowing that you are reaching out to many kids who may not have the support I had, brings tears to my eyes.  Trust me, this means the world to them, and it means the world to me that your hope for the future is being shared with those who truly need it.

I wish you all the best in everything your future holds!  I know that Sophia is looking down on you now, brimming with pride & knowing that although she was taken too soon, her passing had purpose because it has inspired you to do the amazing things you are now setting out to do on her behalf.

May love & peace, luck & success surround you.  You deserve it!
XOXO 
PJ
Regina, Sk, Canada

PS: When you finally decide to go on tour in Canada, please, please, pleeeeeeeeeeease make sure you stop in Regina at the Conexus Arts Centre!  We love you up here!  I'll even get you a deal at the hotel I work for! lol <=D
Posted by: RioSyler
Posted On: 12/22/09 at 03:51:02 PM

Thanks!
Posted by: Ran
Posted On: 12/22/09 at 07:22:13 AM

 There is a song I think you would like...
You can find it on itunes -
Frontline Worship
The song is called Promise from the Combination album. 
Listen to it, it's really great! 
Posted by: Kristy Carlile
Posted On: 12/03/09 at 11:34:18 PM

Danny,
I just want to say thank you for being such an inspiration. To not only be, but countless others. Everytime I read one of your blogs it opens my eyes and my heart to be more positive about things and to know that no matter what may be going wrong in life, it will get better and there ARE better days ahead. All your songs that I have heard so far are so touching and so encouraging. They are definitely the perfect fit for you! I cant wait to hear more for Danny Gokey "the Artist" and from Sophia's Heart!! This foundation is so great, and I hope for nothing but Many great things for you and the Foundation.
Keep the positive attitude and the amazing Hope and faith that you have.

I wish you safe travels and God Bless

Becky


Posted by: bwarner7
Posted On: 12/03/09 at 07:22:42 PM

Danny, this coulnd't have come at any better time.
For the past month, my life has been so stressful and such an up and down rollercoaster. I've been so depressed about everything, and sometimes, when I catch myself being hopeful about the future, I refuse to believe it and run away from the possiblity.
Your words have helped me realize that if I ever want to be happy again, I have to remember that I will, someday, be.
Thank-you SO much Danny.
Your voice heals me, and so have your words.
<3Coryn
xoxo
P.s.:: Good luck in the future and in everything you do. :)

Posted by: OpenHeart
Posted On: 12/03/09 at 05:37:57 PM

I listen to "My Best Days..." everyday, and one day I know I will believe it. Most people that know me would never guess that I am a very closed & quiet person to the way I really feel & would be shocked to find that I don't feel like I'm in my best days... I work so hard to make sure everyone else "has" and is comfortable that I have been lost in the mix.

Don't get me wrong I know that I am blessed beyond messure(God's Grace), but I know that I'm not living up to my Dreams & Goals... A big part of me feels like I've waited to long and "my Door" has been shut. This is why I listen everyday to "My Best Days..." it truly gives me a hope & Vision that I am not a has been. After 20 years in Music I need a fresh start.

I want to thank you for your Vision, SFH! You have been a long time friend and I am  blessed to know you. I want everyone to know that Danny is the most REAL person you will ever meet!! 
Posted by: jargmusic
Posted On: 12/03/09 at 10:57:29 AM

Hi love
 
Thanks for this new, wonderfully inspirational blog Danny. I love to read you! Looking forward to your book! If you’d like, you can give me an early copy for proof-reading and (if you let me, haha) critiquing, before you publish –I do this to some writer friends.
 
Now, speaking of the best days of your life ahead of you… couple of nights ago I dreamed that I was browsing the net and read the news that you had won an Oscar as Best Supporting Actor!
 
If you ask me, my guess is that your role involved speaking in sign language :) Either that, OR I was delirious in my sleep, as I have the flu and had high temperature that night :)
 
Joking aside –as you demonstrated in Come Rain Or Come Shine, you can act and go on and get that Oscar! Provided that you don’t over-act and above all provided that you KEEP CONTROL OF THOSE HANDS!! LOL (you know I love you)
 
What you are doing is wonderful, Danny. Quoting Hsing, it is not just Sophia’s heart. It is your heart too. Touching many. Hundreds of thousands. Millions. With your endeavors at SHF and with your music. I was not a country fan before, but I absolutely adore all of your songs! The music and the lyrics, the message. Can’t wait to hear some more, this time written by YOU. I know, I know, not yet. Not in this album perhaps. What can I say, I’m a dreamer. I’ll wait. Patiently. As usual :)
 
Love,
Eli aka @elishanghai
Posted by: elishanghai
Posted On: 12/03/09 at 08:41:44 AM

Danny,

There are so many people who are loving and supporting you.  I am so glad that you are surrounded by so many close friends and family to help support you after "the darkest days of your life".  You are an inspiration to us all!!!

I have been inspired and touched by your music and the work of Sophias Heart Foundation!  Even though your foundation is relatively new, I know that it will experience long-term success.  Based on what I know about you and the people that are working with you to support SHF, I know that will happen!!  You have a dream and a vision for SHF and a passion for helping people!!  That dream will live on forever in all of the lives of children and families that you touch, not just through SHF but through you music.

There are so many people that you have inspired through your journey and your story!  Keep being who you are!  Keep dreaming!  Keep living!!  Your best days are certainly ahead of you! :)
Posted by: mkeforyou
Posted On: 12/03/09 at 07:05:11 AM

Our best days are ahead of us because you are in our lives.  You amaze me every day with your strength, your faith and of course your talent.  You are such an inspiration, such an incredible blessing.  I look forward to watching your career blossom.  You deserve wonderful things to happen for you.  Can't wait to see you in Uniontown next week.

Love you Danny,
Kristin
Posted by: kls89
Posted On: 12/02/09 at 11:43:24 PM

 Danny, you are truly a blessing for this world. You continue to inspire change in all of us. Because of you, we all see that good things do happen to good people. I feel blessed to watch you grow as an entertainer and I am amazed at your capacity to love through your foundation. 

Love you so much,
Lori

Posted by: lacastilleja
Posted On: 12/02/09 at 10:42:11 PM

Danny,

This past month I've gone through a rollercoaster of emotions. My daughter got married in late October, which obviously, was a high. Then, my mother suffered a stroke, I lost my job, and my dad passed away the week before Thanksgiving. I've had some dark moments in the past few weeks but I kept reading your inspirational words and listening to "Best Days" and "It's Only" and it pushed me to continue on. Also, I wanted to still volunteer for SHF for the Thanksgiving dinner and attend the Grafton events with all my SHF & other amazing friends I've met through you. Those days made me feel so much better. I've cried alot but I know I can pull through this and I will be stronger for it! I'm the only one who can make this happen but I have so much support from all the amazing people I've met through you! Again, I cannot thank you enough for what you have given to me in return for supporting you and SHF. My mom is doing well, my dad enjoyed a long lifeand experienced alot so I feel good about that and I've got interviews lined up. As I have vowed...I will continue to support you and SHF! I am so proud of you and everyday I thank God for bringing you into my life! Yes, your best days are ahead of you and the sky is the limit. it is a pleasure to watch you begin that journey.

Love,

Cherie


Posted by: footballlvnlady
Posted On: 12/02/09 at 10:39:42 PM

Danny,

Your blog was so beautifully written.My Best Days...I feel so honored to know you..Well actually I dont really know you but I know alot about you..You have the most magnificent beautiful anointed voice I have ever heard..You have the sweetest personality of anyone I know.your gorgeous inside and out! and .I just adore you..As if you did not know!!LOL You have so inspired me to continue my journe. When I first  saw you on Idol I fell in love with you! Those kind gentle eyes and sweet smile and such a tender spirit..I could not wait to see you every week..I cired for days when you were voted off.!You took me from a place of darkness in my life and now I am just so happy with God  in my life for my family and friends for twtiter and the beautiful friendships there all because of you! and especially for you..Im also back in church and loving it..getting involved back into being on a worship team which is my heart and love..I have had opportuinites because of you!! to sing again and I am so grateful for every one of them..Ive done some fan videos for you..I hope you have a chance to check them out sometime...I worked endless hours on them..Because I wanted to honor you and make you smile or just enjoy them as much as I enjoy you!! I know Im gonna meet you soon and I cant wait..and because of you I m walking into My BEST DAYS!! Thank you from the bottom of my heart! One heart touching another!!!
and you sure touched mine=)

May God Bless you in your music career friendships and especially SHF and in everything you do, and may He open everydoor that He has ordained for you..
Shine on! Sweetie! Your in my prayers always! One of your number one fans=)
Love,
Superscope


Posted by: superscope
Posted On: 12/02/09 at 10:37:37 PM

Danny:

You are truly an inspiration to us all.  You have shown us that there is indeed a light at the end of the tunnel.  We have all experienced what we think are the worst days possible and somehow we pull through them with the love and support of our family and friends.  Because of your American Idol journey, you now have hundreds of thousands of friends that will help you pull through anything!  Your Best Days have just started and will continue for years and years!  You're the Best!

Love,

Jen
Posted by: jen ruditys
Posted On: 12/02/09 at 10:18:06 PM

 Danny, here I am sobbing.  This was absolutely beautiful, and so are you.  Of course your best days are ahead of you, and I can't wait to have some part in them.  Love you, duuuu.  Foreberr.  "Keep on keepin' on."
Posted by: KaylaMi
Posted On: 12/02/09 at 10:16:30 PM


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