OK guys, I've been pondering this for a few days and need to get these thoughts out of my head before my head explodes! All kidding aside, when I personally think of the word "idol", I think of religion, so I looked the word up and wanted to share the definition:

1. An image or other material object representing a deity to which religious worship is addressed.
2. Any person or thing regarded with blind admiration, adoration, or devotion

So, with that second definition in mind… I am a single mom (definitely a "Cougar"), with a 15 year old son, and for the past (geez, just about a week now!!!), I've been dragging him out to where the TiVo is hooked up to watch endless David Cook interviews. I tell him "Michael, this man is a role model. He exemplifies how you should treat others, he's humble, articulate, kind, and you can learn a lot about the man you want to be from watching him." So Michael says "Mom, are you in love with him?" And I say "Michael, I’m not "IN love" with him, but I absolutely, irrevocably LOVE HIM." And you know what? Michael actually appears to get it. And I know all of you do as well, which is why I wanted to share this with all of you.

Peace!
~Barbara

I absolutley agree. David is one hell of a role model, not only is his music very relateable but he's kind, well versed, sexy (for the ladies) and loves and respects his mom (for the guys). If every man was like David this world would be a much better place, though i'm glad they're not because it is what makes him so very special.

Am i making any sense at all? It makes sense in my head anyway

agreed. also, David has raised the bar for all future American Idols through his incredible level of performance on that show.

Kind of funny but I actually thought of something similar to this the day after he won. There's been other idols in the past that I've liked, even voted and created fansites for but none have had the draw or appeal that David has had to me. Not trying to put them down in the least bit, it's just that I feel like I've finally got "my" idol. The one I want to support throughout his entire career. Not only is he a singer that can reduce my flesh to goosebumps within mere seconds, he's like you said ... humble, articulate, kind and not to mention funny, caring, loving and oozes talent.

Ok, enough of my rambling, just felt this thread was worthy of some more attention.

Aw...Thanks for sharing that. David definitely has his head and his heart in the right place. He's a great role model indeed!