Not Political, Not Religious, It's Only Love

10.21.09

 It’s not a political movement and it’s not a religious movement…it’s a love movement.

These words echoed into many of the media interviews I participated in on my journey through American Idol.  My name and face became familiar with millions of people through the television set.  People began to find out about the underlying passion that I was speaking of that had already started to unveil through the establishment of Sophia’s Heart Foundation.  Many were trying to figure out what I was doing.  On one hand, I had just faced the greatest tragedy in my life and on the other hand, I was fulfilling a promise I made to my wife; a promise to try out for the largest television show in the world. 

I have to admit, I felt over my head so many times and questioned myself as to why and what was I doing.  It’s interesting to see how one's life will undergo intense scrutiny when put into a spotlight.  At one moment, people loved me and the next moment people hated me…at least that is what I felt. I couldn’t figure it out although I must confess, I desperately needed to attend some kind of media training class or T.V. etiquette class.  The show is so popular.  At times I felt we were tossed to the media and asked so many questions.  Sometimes the good intentions deep in my heart were not properly conveyed through the words that were spilling out of my big mouth.  

I remember many times I would walk out of interviews kicking myself in the butt saying “Why did I say that?” or  “I should of said it like this”.  There were even times I would ask the interviewer not to air a certain thing I said because I would unintentionally say it all wrong.  I look back on those days and I laugh...and I laugh hard; almost as hard as I did when I belted out that “blood curdling” scream at the end of my performance of “Dream On”.   As you can see, I was thrust into an arena of which I knew nothing about and walked into the massive spotlight very “green” and "wet behind the ears".  

The reason why I laugh now is because I was one of the many contestants who would go online and “google” my name to see what the media outlets and local blogs were saying about me.  I read it all, the good, the bad, the ugly, and sometimes just complete nonsense.  It was definitely a whole lot to take in for a boy who just only really sang in the church and now wanted to pursue a career in the mainstream market.  I could go into detail and share with you the terrible things that were said, written and taken out of context, but they don’t matter anymore.  I learned the important lesson of never allowing what other people say about me to define me.  I’ve learned that when you let other people’s negative words sink deep into your heart, you’ll sometimes succumb to the pressure and sink back, never fulfilling your purpose.  Admittedly, it took me a little while to finally let those fabrications role off my back, allowing me to rise above it all.  Internally from that point forward, I made it up in my heart and mind that I was going to be very forward about my dream and not allow people to influence me just because they didn’t understand me.  If you have not already learned, you will eventually learn that some people are going to flat out despise you no matter what you say or what you do.  Please understand I’m not trying to be the “party pooper,” but once you lock this concept in like I did, you will make the right choice to just brush it off, rise above it, and move on towards your dream or particular goal.

Amongst all the mistakes and all the mess-ups, I was eventually able to share the following with people: Sophia’s Heart - It’s not a political movement, and it’s not a religious movement…it’s a love movement.   Because I was very open about my faith in God, people speculated that I hated certain groups of people whose lifestyles or beliefs differed from mine.  But in fact it is because of my faith that I have learned that love is unconditional and it goes beyond lifestyle, beliefs and any limitation that we as humans tend to put on it.

My music career will not only consist of entertainment, but will intertwine with my non-profit.  It will be a movement of inspiration, filled with love that goes far beyond words and is driven by actions.  This is how Sophia’s Heart is and always will be defined.  I know that I cannot do this on my own and I will never try to.  However, if I can possibly use the platform that I have been given, I can somehow raise awareness to the need that is in our world and help link hands with you and with others.  We can’t sit back anymore in our comfortable little nests and pretend that problems don’t exist.  Crime, poverty and hate are on the rise like never before.  What are we to do? Mother Teresa said it like this “Love is a fruit in season at all times, and within reach of every hand”.  She also said that we don’t have to do great extraordinary acts but just do small acts with great love. This is where Sophia’s Heart Foundation comes in.  We want to do our part within our arena of influence, helping inspire people to make changes that make our world a better place.  With your help we will see this come to pass.  Please take a look at our website and see how we have begun with programs and services that we feel can influence the change that we talk about.  We have a lot of exciting and new announcements that will be announced in the next couple of weeks, so please stay tuned.  In ending this piece, I would like to echo the words of President Obama; “YES WE CAN”



Comments (31)

what you have done, and still doing now is definitely not a political nor religion movement, it's only L.O.V.E. How come they said that you're a hater, while you have have a great love.

we're trying to do the same thing, and I found so many kids whose different belief some of them don't have any relgion. but it doesn't mean that they don't deserve the love from others, rite?

Posted by: Nina Belle
Posted On: 08/01/10 at 03:15:58 AM

I cant wait to see what God has planned for this foundation!  He's so faithful and He's wanting people who are willing to be used... and its clear that you are Danny. Through your willingness to be used and your obedience to God, He is going to rock this world! I will be praying for your success as well as that of this foundation. Right now prayer is all I can give, but its pretty powerful stuff :) 
Posted by: deedee
Posted On: 11/30/09 at 06:38:41 PM

Danny (& everyone else b/c we are all a team on this love mission),

I want to say that I can't wait to see things happen and change, but I can wait and take it as it comes b/c it is all in God's timing.  I have faith in SHF that things will happen though, and they are happening.  I love music and arts, but thats not the important part.  The important part is the effect we have on people no matter what way or means we use to do it.  I am so happy to be a new part of this community and I will be blessed as I get more involved.   This blog brings me back to Michael Jackson's song "Heal the World."  Well hello to everyone and so glad to be a part of the community.  God bless you all, let's make a change.  ---Jodi Van Dyke.  Muskegon, MI.  

Posted by: ladeeilluminate
Posted On: 11/20/09 at 02:00:39 PM

 One of the things I have noticed in my own life, and it might be with yours as well, that whenever we know that God is about to do something amazing work that seems to be when we feel the most broken down the most! I know in the young adult ministry at my own church that I am involved there has been alot of drama and miscommunication, that is when we realized must have a huge plan of doing something amazing, because otherwise the devil wouldn't be trying so hard to tear it down!!

It is so true that he wants us to become overwhelmed and exhuasted that we just give up! But we must never let him when we must always presevere and that is one thing we must always do is presevere! 

I am so excited to see where the Lord is going to take this LOVE movement of Sophia's Heart Foundation! Just imagine how many lives are going to be changed, all for the glory of Christ! I personally would love to volunteer and serve this ministry in some aspect!!




Posted by: MichelleAngl7
Posted On: 11/13/09 at 01:58:17 AM

Everyone has an opinion about everything and they feel that theirs is the only right one.  People need to stop and think.  God did not make everyone the same.  If this world would stop judging and just accept everyone's differences it would be a much better place to be.

Have you thought about writing a book?
Posted by: pkttstimely
Posted On: 11/02/09 at 10:23:40 PM

It's great to hear that you didn't let those awful things get you down. I read them, too - it's horrible to see the hate that someone can have in their heart for someone they've never even met. You're going to do great things and we can't wait to see them :) We look forward to seeing you succeed not only as an artist but as an inspirational figure as well. SHF is a household name now and you did that! Keep brushing off the bad and keep your head up. Congrats on all of your success!
Posted by: JBranda732
Posted On: 11/02/09 at 10:11:08 PM

Hey Danny!  Just want to tell you my boys and I are praying 4 u and the new album...can't wait!  We saw you in Indy. in Sept.  You were very inspiring to me.  I was married about 19 yrs. and my husband left me for my neighbor, the very day I was having my 4th back surgery.  As I was sitting at the kitchen table that morning I realized the two little sets of eyes looking back at me, and I knew no matter what,... we serve an awesome God and he is with me and the boys, no matter what we are going thru.  I lost both of my parents 10 yrs. ago, 18 mos. apart, they were in their early 50's, loss is so hard isn't it.  I needed my mom so much thru all of this stuff, divorce (which I never wanted, I was commited), as of today 5 back surgeries (and I work 40 hrs. or more a week still, and keep up with my sons!).  Also a year ago I was diagnosed with Thyroid Cancer, I have been singing worship music and weddings, specials for about 13 yrs. now, and they told me I was going to lose my voice.  But by the grace of our God I can hit notes i have never hit, and it did not spread even better yet...it was benign!  Yes my dear Danny, I know how precious life is and family.  I know your words of inspiriation helped me the nite of yr. AI concert, my dream is to sing prof, as well, and to be the best mom I can be 4 my sons.  I am sure your precious Sophia is so proud of you, and I pray one day you can find that happiness again, i know I hold out hope for that too...but all in Gods timing, right?   Best of wishes to you and SHF, we will help any way we can.  Would love to hear from you, my sons and I are having a little bit of a hard time right now financially, I have had to take a few days off from work to care for the only living grandparent I have left...she has Lymphoma, plz pray 4 her.  God Bless, Kimers...someday I would love to just chat with u, but I know you are very busy, and their are so many others who wish that as well.  Anyway, just wanted to say Thank You.
Posted by: kimers
Posted On: 11/02/09 at 06:50:26 PM

 Danny,
This blog is so heart-warming and touching. You have inspired me to realize that i can make it through life and not let anything get me down. I've became a new person and i just want to thank you for helping me with that. I would really like to help with SHF. I think what you do with the foundation is beautiful. Your  very intelligent man Danny. Your goingto make it through life. Im here for you the whole way GO GO GOKEY!
Posted by: onehearttouchingmany
Posted On: 11/02/09 at 05:40:31 PM

 Hi Danny;  
This blog post is not only beautifully written, but full of truth and love.  Bless you for doing what you are doing.
I wanted to bring some awareness to you of the plight of a little girl whose story has been in the media. Perhaps you have heard of Jaimie Cates?  She is eleven years old.  At the beginning of October, while her Dad was away on business, four young men broke into her home where her mom and her were sleeping.  They killed her mom and thought they killed Jaimie too, but she survived.  If there is anything your foundation can do for her and her family, that would be amazing.  Here is a link to her story  so you can find out more.  Here is another link to a blog set up by some paper crafters who know the family and want to help. 
I have been a huge fan of your singing from day one of seeing you on AI.  Bless you!
Crissy
Posted by: Crissy
Posted On: 11/02/09 at 04:44:59 PM

Danny,
FIRST I want to say THANK YOU! thank you so much for all you do, you've helped people through alot I know  your still learning as you go along but so many people are learning from YOU! You've inspired so many including myself, you wowed everyone every single week, we could all see you were stronger each and every week!
I'm so proud of you, all your fans are..this foundation,your music,you as a person..are INCREDIBLE! We cant thank you enough but I'll say it one more time...Thank you <3
Posted by: music-is-love
Posted On: 10/31/09 at 12:34:14 PM

Hi, I'm just a kid (16-year-old kid). And I' have been a really big fan of you since AI 8. Thank you very much for this foundation, which will change many lives all over the world! Since you have been in the AI 8, your voice has been really powerfull so that it definitely will makes the world a lot better! You and your heart are so beutiful that you seem like an angel from the heaven to me!  I hope that your singing career and SHF will always be succesfull! God always bless you and SHF cause he knows you and your kind heart!!!
Love,
Nguyen Minh Tri

Posted by: tri2207
Posted On: 10/22/09 at 10:30:38 PM

Danny:

Your story is one that has touched my heart from the beginning.  I have followed you from your first audition on AI through your first solo concert in New York (which was awesome I might add).  Through this journey, I have seen you grow musically, physically (the "guns" of course!), emotionally and spiritually.  Your fans have grown to love the amazing person that you have become.

SHF is a foundation which I truly believe in.  It has already helped so many people and will continue to help hundreds, if not thousands, more.  What a wonderful way to keep Sophia's memory alive.  It is truly a love movement.

You have definitely made Milwaukee (and the rest of the world) proud!  As the great Byron Chambers (ha, ha) would say, "When we all shine like this, it spills over to reach people that are in the dark.  Let's go get em out!  Shine your light!  Woo!"

YES WE CAN!

Love,

Jen Ruditys (@jenruditys)

 



Posted by: jen ruditys
Posted On: 10/22/09 at 03:49:32 PM

Danny love,
 
Your journey on Idol was truly extraordinary.
 
It would be extra-ordinary enough for anybody to rise from anonymity to stardom in a matter of weeks.
 
But with all you had been through just before your first audition, and all you’ve been through during the whole season, I have to say, you’ve certainly risen beyond my expectations of what could be humanly possible to achieve in such a short while.
 
I mean, reading some of the things people said about you on the Internet was affecting me –making me upset, angry, sad, even giving me headaches. How could it not affect you? After Endless Love and the brutality of the comments that followed, I really feared that it would be too much for you and you’d withdraw from the competition.
 
I have to admit, the following week, when I watched you sing September, my first reaction was to just sit there and stare at the screen. Normally I would jump up and down or feel chills down my spine or tears down my cheeks after watching you perform, but that one time, I felt nothing. As if someone had ordered you to sing but you actually couldn’t wait to get it over with.
 
Is it all in my imagination or you really didn’t want to go up on that stage that week?
But that would have been a victory for the haters, and I’m so proud of you for making those words that you sang in Hero prophetic: you found the strength to carry on.
 
And then, you were another Danny. It was as if you had overcome the worst, and nothing and nobody could touch you no more. Come Rain Or Come Shine was AMAZING, and you could even laugh off the infamous SCREAM without letting the negative get at you.
 
If I started to grow fond of you after the screening of your audition, for your attitude and courage in spite of pain, it’s really during the whole Idol journey that I grew to Love you. The graciousness that you maintained towards your enemies throughout the season is a mirror image of your beautiful soul, and whatever you are going to do with Sophia’s Heart Foundation will be an extension of that unconditional love that you have demonstrated to have inside.
 
Sorry for writing a novel. Just one more thing: if you really read all that was said about you on the Internet, you must have read some of the things I wrote at the time about you needing to improve your looks, or your manners, or your camera awareness. “You should look more into the camera”. “No, now you are staring. You shouldn’t actually look too much into the camera!” LOL, what a pain I can be! I would like to kick myself in the butt too and delete some of the things I wrote, even though (I hope you realize that) I only had your best interest at heart.
 
It’s so easy to sit in front of your screen and scrutinize others, but the truth is –I could have never done any better than you, and I challenge anyone else who thinks they could.
 
Danny, you’re a true hero in my eyes and in my heart. <3
 
Eli (elishanghai)
 

Posted by: elishanghai
Posted On: 10/22/09 at 12:18:11 PM

For the LORD does not see as man sees;[  for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”  (1 Samuel 16:7)

God bless you for your heart, Danny!!  :)
Posted by: Gwen
Posted On: 10/22/09 at 11:26:04 AM

I couldn't be more proud to be an admirer of yours than this very moment. While reading this admittedly it's easy to picture you on American Idol. How much i adored you for your talent, your spark, your personality, and yes..your looks (well, you are easy on the eyes ya know..jus' sayin..but i digress) what i'm trying to relate is..it's easy to get caught up in the fandom of the Danny Gokey image and disregard that you are in fact, a human being. (i'm sure you can relate to this statement on a personal level yourself) Albeit you're an extrodinary human being..but human none-the-less. Great thing is however, that WE ALL have it within us to be every bit as extrodinary in our own diverse ways, and to me it begins with a fundamental belief in basic human kindness. A real desire to make a difference. To leave an indelible mark in this world. I'm just incredibly amazed at you and what you've begun here with SHF. So much so that i've decided to submit an application to volunteer my time to assist in any form i can.  I'm happy to inform that my vision of you now surpasses just the IDOL that was introduced to me nearly a year ago and i feel as if  i'm  meeting you now for the very first time. (does that make sense? well as much as it can for this late at night) anywhoo From one human being to another..it's a pleasure to meet you =)

all the best, and if there is anything i can do to help please let me know.
Miss Lisa
@MissLisa1970




Posted by: MissLisa1970
Posted On: 10/21/09 at 11:29:15 PM

Danny, the way you speak from the heart is why people believe and support you and your movement.  Here is a quote from Maya Angelou " I have learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel". This is so true of your attitude and personality with your fans during the AI tour and you continue to show it thru this movement.  Beautiful inspiring words for each of us to make this world a better place .
Posted by: tonicNY
Posted On: 10/21/09 at 11:19:27 PM

Danny, you are a wise young man to rise above the hate and the negative. There will always be people like that out there. I admire your determination and am a huge fan of your beautiful voice. I know that you and your foundation will be a great success. I look forward to buying your records for many years to come.
God Bless You,
Sherry(beaglemom06)
Posted by: beaglemom
Posted On: 10/21/09 at 11:09:39 PM

Danny,

I don't have all of the fancy words that some of the others on here do. You drew me in from the very beginning on Idol with your amazing musical talent, but also with your background story on Sophia and this amazing foundation you started on her behalf.

When the season ended I knew that I wanted to help you help make a difference in children's lives and signed up to be a member of  your wonderful organization. I'm thrilled to be a Vol. Team Leader for this amazing foundation. I"ve been recruiting new volunteers and doing research on non profits but I want to do more and look forward to that chance. I've had the pleasure of meeting you in Madison at the Idol show and since then meeting your family members and talking to you on a conference call. You inspire me by your words and music. I went through a very down point in my life and after reading about your journey and your previous blogs, I was able to overcome those and move forward with my life.

Again, I'm thrilled to be a part of this amazing foundation and look forward to helping SHF grow and thrive and make positive things happen in kids lives that wouldn't otherwise have that opporunity. I want to spread your vision of love!


Posted by: footballlvnlady
Posted On: 10/21/09 at 11:02:48 PM

Danny, Thank  you for these words. As always, you speak the truth here. I am proud of you for rising above the negativity to continue on the path of the dream you and Sophia had together with AI, and to use your own pain and grief for something positive through the formation of SHF.   You know you tend to be too hard on yourself!  Your interviews were always honest from the very beginning...Now, you are learning to manuever through the minefield of fame.  You have remained faithful to your promise to Sophia, faithful to your own integrity and faithful to God.  Your path will be blessed. I know Sophia feels immense pride and her love is still with you every single moment of every day. Keep the faith, Danny! You are on the right path!!  Susan Clayton
Posted by: revsac
Posted On: 10/21/09 at 10:53:28 PM

Hi, I'm just a kid (16-year-old kid). And I' have been a really big fan of you since AI 8. Thank you very much for this foundation, which will change many lives all over the world! You are such an angel!!! I hope that your singing career and SHF will always be succesfull! God always bless you and SHF cause he knows you!!!

Posted by: tri2207
Posted On: 10/21/09 at 10:38:49 PM

I had the incredible honor of meeting you backstage after the Idol show in Cleveland!  You have been an inspiration to me since your idol journey began.  It's wonderful that you will be able to use your talent and your new found success to bring so much good to the world with SHF.  I cannot wait for your solo career to take off.  I will definitely be there with you every step of the way.  God bless you always!

Love,
Kristin Schill
Posted by: kls89
Posted On: 10/21/09 at 10:04:32 PM

Danny,
You are such an inspiration to sooo many people, me included. Your words are so inspiring and genuine. I love how caring and determined you are. It's such a great thing to see, and its something we dont see all that often anymore. I'm so excited for SHF. I think this foundation will do great things, and I look forward to seeing all of it. You are such an amazing guy and I am so glad to get to witness this amazing journey you are on.
Goodluck and god bless in everything you do.

With Love,
Becky Warner
Posted by: bwarner7
Posted On: 10/21/09 at 09:18:24 PM

Danny,  I just have to say you are truly an amazing person. Never have I seen someone who cared so deeply. Your journey on American Idol will lead you to many many more years of happiness and success.  You inspire so many people, more than you may know.  The world does need a change, and there is so much that we can all do to help.
Thank you. I am excited for all the wonderful things that will happen for you and SHF.  It is hard to understand how people can despise others so much, with out even understanding them. But like you said,  you have to brush them off and rise above it. 
Danny, you have a wonderful journey ahead of you. Many blessings to you.

Audra


Posted by: starluv29
Posted On: 10/21/09 at 07:25:55 PM

Danny: I am so impressed with your commitment to the Love Movement.  I am impressed by the inspiration that it sprang from and the inspiration it has become.  Your journey has been one of discovery about yourself and about one's place in the world. The lessons you learned are lessons that each of us as citizens of the world can learn.  We can make a difference in our own lives and in others' lives in small ways and in significant ways. We don't have to be defined by what others say we can or can't do.  A person's dreams take flight when he/she believes in him/herself and believes that anything is possible. You are living proof that one can move past the negative and find strength and purpose in life. Your commitment to SHF and the Love Movement will continue to inspire and even more, bring help and hope to many. I promise to do my part in making someone elses life better. You use President Obama's simple words "Yes We Can". I believe that in deep in the President's heart, as well as in my heart, and I believe in your heart we know those words are true. Now more than ever is the time for each of us to believe that change can happen and to know that we can make it happen. 

Danny, good luck on your mission and your music as you continue your journey.  <3
Posted by: Cheryl (upsnodowns)
Posted On: 10/21/09 at 05:43:38 PM

Danny, words can not express how happy and excited I am for all you have accomplished. For all the wonderful things you brought into reality through yours and Sophia's dreams. My heart goes out to all those in need, I pray every day for our world to come to peace and to lend a helping hand, and SHF has shown all that Sophia dreamed about and was unable to see, come to pass..If you remember who I am, you will know that my world was shattered a few years ago and you brought "ME" through my devastation....I only wish the best that God has to offer you in this life and that all your dreams come true!!!! God Bless you Danny Gokey! Your fans are behind you 110%. All you have to do is ask and we will help in anyway possible. <3


Posted by: Gokeyfan4eva
Posted On: 10/21/09 at 05:23:52 PM

Danny, thank you for sharing your heart so openly with us; we felt your pain and jubilation during your journey. I only hope that my children grow up with the passion you have for helping others, and with your moral character.
Sophia would be so proud, you have fulfilled her dreams and risen higher than any expectations she may have had for your life together.
A very important impact you could have is on the lives of teens; image is so important to them and your words and example of how to rise above hate and slander could change some of their lives.
And we are all so anxious to get more great music from you!

Posted by: pjgvet
Posted On: 10/21/09 at 05:13:42 PM

Oh Danny, your words are so beautiful and heartfelt, one can not help but look into your heart and soul. I know you mean what you say 100% and I tell you this now: I will walk along with you in fulfilling your vision to change this world one small act of kindness at a time. It reminds me of my favorite book "Pay it Forward" by Catherine Ryan Hyde. If you haven't read this book, please pick it up soon. It has a beautiful message and it will have you in tears by the end. Love you, sweetheart and I wish you all the best in the world. God Bless.
Posted by: lacastilleja
Posted On: 10/21/09 at 04:45:54 PM

Danny - we are all here with you to support your vision, your mission, your dream!  This is so exciting, we are so happy for you!   We are ready to help make a difference, to take words into action and to help you fulfill your mission and your dream, to have Sophias memory live on forever through the work of Sophias Heart Foundation... WE WILL DO IT!  We love you and support you every step of the way!  :)
Posted by: mkeforyou
Posted On: 10/21/09 at 04:33:28 PM

Danny, thank you so much for sharing your beautiful story with us.  I had tears in my eyes reading the beginning of your commentary, but by the time I finished the last paragraph, I had a huge big smile on my face.  You have survived so much to get where you are today and it has been my pleasure to follow you on your journey from the very first time I saw you audition on American Idol.  I can't wait to purchase your album!  I am proud to be your fan and you are always in my prayers.  May God bless you.

~Shirl Sitler
10-21-09
Posted by: Shirl
Posted On: 10/21/09 at 04:20:13 PM

Thanks for this wonderful inspirational blog...you don't realize just how many people were WITH YOU on your journey over the past year.  Far more than were ever against you.  I'm glad that you were able to rise above the bad and are continuing on your journey with SHF and your career.  God bless you!
Posted by: NancyinWI
Posted On: 10/21/09 at 03:38:19 PM

WOW. I am so proud of you and this foundation, its truley amazing and beautiful what your doing, I want to say THANK YOU, you've inspired me and many people I know. You may not realize it but so many heart HAVE already been touched through this foundation and your story. Good luck in all you do danny ;]


Posted by: music-is-love
Posted On: 10/21/09 at 03:29:59 PM


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