February 9, 2010 9:28 PM
American Idol - Maddy Curtis cut in Hollywood
Well now you dear friends know what we were not allowed to reveal for the last month: Maddy did not make it through the Hollywood rounds.
See 3:45:
In fact, what was ironic was that she was being cut at precisely the time the Boston auditions were airing on January 12. While I think she would have kept her composure, the cameras and interviewers have a tendency to needle you until you lose it. . . .
Maddy stopped crying in the elevator. We went up to our room and watched the Boston auditions - which we hadn't seen - on YouTube.
Maddy was brushing her teeth when there was a knock on our door and I peeped out the peep hole and saw a camera crew. We didn't answer. Maddy went to sleep peacefully and I stayed up all night reading emails.
Around 2 am, a paper was slipped under our door with our flight information for the next morning. No one ever came to say goodbye - even the producers who had seemed to love Maddy. It was a cold and disconnected feeling, and yet we felt connected to a larger world as in LAX people recognized Maddy and said hello.
For unbelievers, it might be hard to understand the peace with which Maddy and I traveled home. We knew God had accomplished some amazing things - some which we would find out about and some which we would never know. As they continue to be revealed, I will continue to share with you. But even that night, we felt like she had accomplished something special.
I am very grateful to American Idol for representing our daughter so well - though the way they clipped her song made no sense at all. I will be posting the song "The Nearness of You" - which Maddy sang at her Haiti Benefit - in a few days on YouTube. She executed the Ella Fitzgerald classic flawlessly - but it just wasn't what American Idol was looking for :)
Tripp and I could not be prouder of our little girl. The big question was "Will she audition again?" The answer from Maddy is "No." What she discovered is that she did not like the cameras and lack of spontaneity. The stage has always been her first love. And her family is grateful that God gave her the opportunity to immediately focus on helping others through the Maddy Sings for Haiti Benefit she did last weekend.
Maddy is receiving invitations to speak and perform at pro-life events and True Love Waits. Having been given a chance in the spotlight, the true purpose of Maddy's life and her gifts has been revealed. It shouldn't be surprising that God can use the things of the world to accomplish His purposes.
And even if nothing else happened, what happened is enough. . . .
Posted in Family, Maddy | Permalink
Comments
You don't know me but as a reader of your blog and a new fan of Maddy's, I couldn't agree more with you. Seeing the television coverage of Maddy's comments about her brothers both last month and tonight on American Idol is simply amazing. In the interview Maddy said she didn't know why, but suddenly wanted to audition -- I'm so glad you both listened to His nudge.
Posted by: Jennifer Lawler | February 9, 2010 10:25 PM
My Regnum Christi group read Maddy's story as a case study---a few of us watched this evening to find out that, though Maddy sang beautifully, Simon didn't like her song choice.
You have a beautiful daughter! I hope/pray that she continues to share her talent!
Posted by: Amy | February 9, 2010 10:27 PM
Maddy has an amazing gift. That the judges of American Idol didn't appreciate it is their loss. I am quite sure that she has a wonderful future ahead of her. She is a fantastic role model for young women of faith.
Posted by: Megan | February 9, 2010 10:32 PM
She has an amazing voice and family story. Thanks for the video of her Haiti benefit. I'm sure it's not the last the world will hear from this awesome talent.
Posted by: Monte | February 9, 2010 10:38 PM
Just saw Maddy on AI. I'm so sorry she didn't make it. I pray she knows this isn't the "end of the line" for her. She's a very talented and beautiful young woman.
Posted by: MNStacey | February 9, 2010 10:41 PM
We're sorry that Maddy didn't make it through on Idol - We all think she has a lovely voice! God Bless your family!
Posted by: Kris | February 9, 2010 10:44 PM
Maddy has a beautiful voice - angelic. She would have been a lot of fun to watch on AI but I was a little worried that the judges (esp Simon) would try to push her to be more "commercial". I'm so excited to see the plans God has for Maddy ... I'm sure she has only just begun to make her mark on the world.
Posted by: Christina | February 9, 2010 10:54 PM
We're proud of you, Maddy. The way that you are using your gift to the glory of God and the service of others, especially at such a young age, is an inspiration to all of us.
Posted by: Elissa | February 9, 2010 10:58 PM
Hollywood just isn't big enough for you Maddy...
You are in a whole different class...YOU are the reality, your audition clip showed that so beautifully. God must be so very, very pleased every time He hears your voice. No matter where He takes you, you will bring people joy. You will help to make their burdens a little lighter. I can't think of a better calling.
Posted by: Jennifer | February 9, 2010 11:04 PM
So proud of you Maddy! Keep shining :)
Posted by: Margaret | February 9, 2010 11:08 PM
"No eye has seen nor ear heard, what God has prepared for those who love and called according to His purpose."
Maddy, you, and the Curtis family have a purpose in her voice, your story, and your very lives. We now have a glimpse, but I have a feeling there are more surprises yet to come.
Posted by: Spunky | February 9, 2010 11:13 PM
May God's peace be with you as you discern your path in life. Certainly it is a difficult and painful process, but the one thing that is absolute is that He does have a wonderful plan for your life, Maddie. And He can make the unimaginable happen.
Posted by: Jen Raiche | February 9, 2010 11:14 PM
I will admit - my heart broke for her when she was cut. But you're right - everything happened the way it was supposed to and it's amazing that God chose to spotlight her and your family's story for all America to see. It would have been so cool to present more of your family to the world, though. How cool for more people to get to know about DS through Maddy's journey.
I believe that the opportunities God will provide for Maddy & all y'all because of this exposure will be unbelievable. the "Maddy Sings for Haiti" thing is just the start.
Plus, I kept thinking about how her brothers must have reacted. I'm sure that for them, just like for our Henry and his view of his sister, Maggie, there is no one better than their Maddy. Well done, young lady. Well done.
Posted by: christy | February 9, 2010 11:16 PM
It was so fun watching AI, and feeling like I "knew someone" on it! Bummer she was cut, but she will go on and do amazing things! I loved your mommy moment, comforting her and telling her "you are just 16" - - not many young people have accomplished what she has so far - at JUST 16!!! God Bless you and your family!
Posted by: Kim Moore | February 9, 2010 11:27 PM
I was very disappointed when she was cut tonight. She has a beautiful voice and it's hard to believe she is only 16 years old. She is going to go on and do great things and make a difference for so many people.
Posted by: Heather Seal | February 9, 2010 11:29 PM
Wow, Barbara! Tell her congratulations for all she was able to do!!!! One of the guys who leads worship at our church made it into the top 40 of American Idol in 2007. He was cut after that. I was talking to him the other night and he mentioned how much he learned from that experience and is still learning from it. But he's SO thankful he didn't make it b/c of how the Lord has used it and how the Lord has led! We are all thankful at the church b/c he's SO gifted in leading the church into the presence of our God! Be encouraged, Maddy! God has a PERFECT and beautiful plan for you!!!!
Posted by: shawnda | February 9, 2010 11:44 PM
As soon as i saw the results tonight i went online to try and find Maddie. I came to this sight which has opened my eyes even more to your family. Your work is amazing and i could sense Gods presence in Maddie even just seeing her on stage. I am about the same age as Maddie and love singing so I can understand how here heart must have been broken. I am so glad that God helped you through the situation and Maddy's efforts in singing for Haiti are just amazing. I am also inspired by your family's support for Down Syndrome. I have been working with special needs kids recently and plan to volunteer with some christian summer camps for special needs. Your family is truly amazing and you broadcast Gods love. Many BLessings and Thank You to Maddy for dreaming and taking risks. I am truly inspired
Posted by: Makayla | February 10, 2010 12:02 AM
Maddy, our family thinks you did just GREAT! And what an awesome opportunity God provided for you and mom.
Barbara, I'm so glad that all of you see and understand God's hand in all of this. If Maddy had never advanced beyond Boston, would there have been a "Maddy Sings for Haiti" event? Probably not. And the wonderful, heart-felt thinks she said about her brothers! Just those few heart-felt short sentences from this young woman....
Lives have been changed because Maddy heard God nudging her to audition. You have written that you've seen some of the results/reasons and understand that others you may not. SOOOO glad that you all see and understand God, his plan, his timing, his purposes.
Blessings!
Posted by: von | February 10, 2010 12:28 AM
I can see why you say you are proud of her no matter what! She did so well whether they said so or not, and now you have a celebrity in the family. Or several, since some of her brothers were TV stars too. Congratulations anyway! I really enjoyed hearing her sing!
Posted by: stacie | February 10, 2010 12:33 AM
Maddy, wow. Your singing is so moving, it really touches the heart. What a gift you are! Can't wait to hear where God takes you next. God bless you.
Posted by: Anne | February 10, 2010 1:03 AM
I'm a new fan of your blog and will be adding it to my blogroll. I learned about Maddy and your prolife stance through the Tim Tebow ad controversy. I am sorry to hear Maddy was cut on American Idol, but it sounds like Maddy gained the exposure and experience, along with courage she needed to move on to bigger things.
You and your daughter are an inspiration to many for all you do and have accomplished. I have two sons, one is 5.5, the other 2.5. I feel like I could not handle more than what I have been given. It amazes me how you have raised so many children and are still sane to tell about it ☺
My grandmother (abuelita) had twelve kids by birth...lived in Mexico and had little help from her husband..so anyone who can raise more than one or two kids is always an inspiration to me.
I hope to gain some insight and learn to become a better mother,wife, friend and spouse through your blog.
Congratulations again to Maddy for making it on American Idol. Keep following God's lead.
Posted by: Patty @littlebytesnews | February 10, 2010 1:04 AM
To ALL THE CURTIS FAMILY....Maddy left the fragrance of Christ.....The judges I'm sure are not aware,but sometime in the future the two male judges who were at Maddy's audition in Boston WILL REMEMBER HER!!!!!God must have great plans for Maddy and this is just a stepping stone. Maddy you are BEAUTIFUL AND HAVE BEAUTIFUL VOICE AND BEAUTIFUL GLOWING SPIRIT.....If nothing eles you got to see "HOLLYWOOD"...I grew updown there and it was alot different in 1944. God's Blessings to all of you.....Much love, Becky Wold
Posted by: Becky Wold | February 10, 2010 4:01 AM
Maddy you are a blessing! Thanks for sharing your beautiful gift with the world.
Barbara and Tripp thanks for your lovely example to all parents and families.
God bless you!
Posted by: a Mac and a Mug O' Joe | February 10, 2010 7:03 AM
Maddy, you did so well! Your voice is outstanding, beyond anything American Idol can hope to hold. I agree with other posters, you really are in a class different (and dare I say "better!") than AI. Hold fast that which you know is true, that God has created you and your voice for the reason of bringing Him glory, and He *delights* in YOU!
"The LORD your God is with you,
he is mighty to save.
He will take great delight in you,
he will quiet you with his love,
he will rejoice over you with singing." Zeph 3:17)
And not just your voice, but All of your heart, All of your soul, All of YOU! Dwell not on what the "world" may consider a step back, but instead reflect on what the "world" is to God, it is His footstool (Is. 66:1) and I believe American Idol has been a "stepstool" for you. God has used it as a means of bringing you one step closer to His overall plan, and one step higher to shine forth His Glory. ("A light on a hill can not be hidden, nor a lamp hidden under a basket, so let your light shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."Matt. 5:1516) You've succeeded perfectly Maddy! Exactly as God wanted you to for this moment in time!
"So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth;
It shall not return to Me void,
But it shall accomplish what I please,
And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.
“For you shall go out with joy,
And be led out with peace;
The mountains and the hills
Shall break forth into singing before you,
And all the trees of the field shall clap their hands." Is. 55:11-12
Hold fast to Him as He takes you further on your journey, I have a feeling He is FAR from "done" with you. :D
"Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen."
Heb. 13:20-21
"I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine making request for you with all joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ." Phil. 1:3-6
Posted by: Kristy in Germany | February 10, 2010 7:14 AM
First of all, Maddy did a fantastic job. She's just 16 - incredible talent for a girl her age! I personally think so much more of her character on stage. Who she is because of HIM. Her incredible gift of song that she uses to glorify HIM. Her selfless and sacrificial love of her precious family that is only possible through HIM. They at AI missed all of that. But her Maker did not. He is glorified in heaven because she put HIM first. And at 16 yrs old, when most teenagers are whiney and self-focused, carry little for others around them. She is a breath of fresh air and i agree with the commenter above, she left a fragrance in that room when she walked out. Jesus Christ! What a blessing that she has such wonderful parents to instruct her in love and teach her about His ways. For His ways are not ours nor are His thoughts like ours. I praise Him for that. He knows what's best for each of us. He will lead Maddy in a way that is perfect for her...the way that will bring HIM glory and honor.
"A man's heart plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps." Proverbs 16:9
Much love, Lisa
Posted by: Lisa Shay | February 10, 2010 7:55 AM
I was blessed by watching Maddy on AI. She handled herself so well, with grace and poise. The spots that showed Maddy and her brothers brought tears to my eyes. What a wonderful platform to show the love of family and the worth of all of God's children. I love the way you comforted her after the bad news was given. And I love even more the fact that the camera crew was left out in the hall once the two of you were back in your room. Maddy will continue to use the gift that God has given her and I am happy that so many people had the chance to hear her sing. God bless you all.
Posted by: Trina Brandy | February 10, 2010 8:36 AM
What a blessing Maddy is! Thank you for sharing her with us!
Posted by: sandra | February 10, 2010 8:41 AM
God bless and keep you Maddy.
Posted by: april | February 10, 2010 9:24 AM
For what it's worth, there was a lot of positive talk amongst my Facebook friends (some of which are unbelievers) about Maddy and her brothers and her family (they were really rooting for her), so if nothing else came of it, that was worth a lot!
Posted by: Michelle | February 10, 2010 9:31 AM
Maddy is such a lovely girl. Her beautiful singing and her joyful outlook on life and family is a gift to all.
Well done Maddy, I expect that God has plans for you much greater than AI could have presnted.
P.S. I loved the dress you wore in Hollywood. :)
Posted by: kelly | February 10, 2010 9:34 AM
I was sorry to see Maddy cut on AI last night. She is clearly talented, and God has a better plan in store I'm sure. It is the show's loss not to have someone of Maddy's talent, integrity, and character on it. Jeremiah 29:11 !
I know we will be seeing and hearing more of Maddy. Thank you for being willing to share your talent and your family with us.
Posted by: Melissa G | February 10, 2010 9:42 AM
She was beautiful and brave. No doubt Our Lord does indeed have great things in store for her.
Posted by: Marisa Ashwell | February 10, 2010 9:56 AM
Maddy you have such a wonderful gift from God! I'm sure the path He leads you on will continue to touch so many others in ways you never expected. I look forward to seeing what He has in store for you! In Christ, Lauri
P.S. You have a beautiful family, but I'm sure you already know that!
Posted by: Lauri | February 10, 2010 10:11 AM
One way or another, whether here or not til heaven, God always brings beauty for ashes, and what the world sees as the ending often becomes only a beginning. That seems to already be happening. What an exciting place to be! Maddy left a bit of her beautiful godly spirit sprinkled all over the AI stage and everywhere the show reaches. As a member of the way-extended family she may never meet, I could not be more proud of her! ; )
Posted by: Marian | February 10, 2010 10:13 AM
I ditto all the comments already posted! Especially how God only used AI as a springboard to much better things to come. Maddy, do you go to Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament? My 17 year old daughter has been going for a little while each week and I can see it is helping her to "see" the world around her much more clearly. You might want to do this so you will stay as beautiful as you are, and to grow ever more Christ-like! May God continue to bless you and your wonderful family! Julie
Posted by: Julie | February 10, 2010 10:49 AM
Dear Barbara,
It was an absolute joy to see Maddy once again last night on AI. My heart was in my throat and I prayed throughout the whole show. Despite the worldly outcome, I know that God has given your sweet daughter a tremendous gift. I know that she has spread his gospel of love to more people in 3 minutes on TV than I may in my whole lifetime.
Thank you for allowing us on the journey with you and your beautiful daughter. God has great things in store for you and your family.
I can't wait to see where He leads you all!
Blessings and Grace...
Posted by: Mary | February 10, 2010 10:56 AM
May God be glorified in the gift that is Maddy's!! Go get em, Maddy. God bless you.
Posted by: Janet | February 10, 2010 10:57 AM
I have to tell you...I think Maddy has a most beautiful voice. I don't believe that Idol is the way for her to go. I think God was protecting her from that. She is 16. She is young and wonderful. I think there is a danger there if she continued all the way up. What she did was great. She did something beautiful for God.
You and I (and a lot of readers here) have a more vested interest in the souls of our children. I really think that God has something better worked out for her. I can just feel it. Maddy has a gift. She is safe in God's hands.
Maddy, I don't even know you and yet I am so very proud of you. You are truly a gift from God.
Posted by: Sue from Buffalo | February 10, 2010 10:57 AM
We're so proud of your whole family, and certainly of Maddy. There's not much I can add to all the wonderful comments already posted. I just want you to know that I was praying for you all during the 'silent time,' and I'm so glad that has passed. Now you can receive the much deserved support and admiration of your friends and fans. As for me, I'm so impressed with not only Maddy's character and talent, but also the sheer guts it takes to do something like this. What an amazing thing to do, thanks for sharing it with us.
Posted by: Bluemont Laurie | February 10, 2010 11:18 AM
Maddy was the only reason we were tuning in to AI in the first place this season. We were heartbroken when she was cut but you could instantly tell that it was just the door opening for her. I felt pride for her because she held her head high and then I felt as a mother would in wanting to protect their young from others as you did in the hall in comforting her. And you're right Barbara- she's "just" 16. SO many amazing things she's already accomplished and what a life that awaits her. God has such a beautiful plan for her and it will be amazing. God bless you Maddy! You did great and should feel very proud of yourself for what you did with AI. I'm pretty certain you'll never look back with regrets.
Posted by: Dirtdartwife | February 10, 2010 11:28 AM
Dear Curtis family,
We are so very honored to have seen this little glimpse into your family and Maddy portrayed on television. We believe God has a great plan for Maddy in this and we are so impressed by her grace and poise. The strength and courage with which she witnessed to the world were not lost on the young men in this house, ages 11 and under, who were inspired by her. Thank you for sharing with us and giving us deeper insight into the heart of the people of God than a television camera ever could.
Posted by: Colleen Mitchell | February 10, 2010 11:48 AM
Congratulations to you and your daughter Maddy for the accomplishments made thus far! Honestly, your daughter was the only reason my wife and I decided to watch the show this year. The new cast of judges, and one 'degenerate' judge in particular, had turned us off and we tuned out until we read about and saw and heard your daughter sing. She has an amazing talent and we pray that God continues to richly bless her throughout her life. Go Maddy!
Posted by: Raul | February 10, 2010 12:12 PM
Romans 8:28 - my favorite verse of all times. :)
There was a time in my life when I wasn't able to do something I really wanted. I asked God " Why?" The next day I went to a conference where a preacher was speaking and touching on the subject of why. We don't know and understand the day of tomorrow but God does and in His infinite Love He will guide and spare us.
God has His hands on you Maddy, and beautiful plans for you. You are a wonderful tool in His hands and I can already see the amazing things the Lord will do through your life.
American Idol was an amazing experience I bet, and I know you are already taking great insights from it.
Keep on! The Lord is for you who can be against you?! :)
Posted by: tereza crump AKA MyTreasuredCreations | February 10, 2010 12:13 PM
Maddy your voice, face,presence and authenticity are such gifts to us all. God closed that door so he can open another one for you so that you can fulfill the purpose he sent you into this world to fulfill. Love and prayers from S. Florida!
Posted by: Judy | February 10, 2010 12:16 PM
Maddy handled herself beautifully. As a person who grew up doing theater and taking part in singing competitions (and who later did some professional work), I know that even the knocks - ESPECIALLY the knocks - teach kids so much about themselves and the world.
Maddy gave the television viewing audience a positive look at Downsers, showed us all that 16 year olds can be sweet, modest, and innocent, and shared her lovely voice with us. She also learned a lot about herself, I'm sure, in addition to her performing preferences :)
Yea, Maddy!
Posted by: Kristina | February 10, 2010 12:38 PM
I thought Maddy sang beautifully, and it was my very humble opinion that they were wrong!
That being said, what a beautiful witness to life. I was amazed that they picked up on the story, and Maddy's sincerity shone through. May God continue to guide Maddy and your whole family on this incredible journey!
Posted by: Stephanie | February 10, 2010 2:15 PM
I was cheering for Maddy and I was so sad to see her cut. I would have loved to be able to have her as my favorite for the season. She truly is a special girl and a role model for teens. Thanks Maddy for sharing your gift and for being the person you are.
Posted by: Keri | February 10, 2010 3:40 PM
Blessings to all your family, and I am sure that God has great plans for Maddie. AI may have been the lure of the world, but God's way will be so much better for her soul.
Posted by: Shirley | February 10, 2010 4:12 PM
Congratulations to Maddy on a job well done! No matter what the judges think, she can hold her head high. She's talented and it'll be fun to see what God has in store for her.
Posted by: Pam | February 10, 2010 4:33 PM
I'm so sorry Maddy didnt make it, no matter what it was a blessing to see her on tv.
God bless the Curtis family!
Posted by: mm | February 10, 2010 5:59 PM
We too were sad to see Maddy cut, but am excited to hear about the ripples.
You know, when you go through something bad you feel like a lone little rock that got thrown into a HUGE pond. The ripples start small, but soon become larger waves, affecting many many MANY other rocks lining the pond shore.
Hang in there Maddy. We're cheering for ya. Ripple away!
Posted by: Amanda - VintageDutchGirl | February 10, 2010 6:40 PM
Due to the fact that I don't follow this blog daily I never put 2 + 2 together but I have to tell you I was shocked that they did not choose Maddy. Her singing is just absolutley beautiful and from her heart and very professional. It's breathtaking. I thought the best of them all. However, let me add, God has a plan Maddy, He has a plan for you and that just was not the one! So keep your heart open and listen and you will hear.......God Bless you and your family!
Posted by: JP | February 10, 2010 6:52 PM
She's a winner :) I'm sorry for your loss... but so glad that God uses these things for his glory. Her future will be bright. :)
Posted by: Lisa | February 10, 2010 7:51 PM
while part of me really wanted Maddy to go far on AI, the other part of me REALLY didn't want her to get caught up in all the hype. God is good, and He will lead her on to much greener pastures than those that Hollywood has to offer. God bless your family.:)
Posted by: stephanie | February 10, 2010 8:37 PM
while part of me really wanted Maddy to go far on AI, the other part of me REALLY didn't want her to get caught up in all the hype. God is good, and He will lead her on to much greener pastures than those that Hollywood has to offer. God bless your family.:)
Posted by: stephanie | February 10, 2010 8:38 PM
maddie represented Christ and your family so well. maddie has a lovely talent and God will certainly use her in many ways!
Posted by: julie | February 10, 2010 10:08 PM
This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase not only her talent but the wonderful family you have. God is using her talent and witness. I really enjoy your blog and would love to link it to mine. I just started writing proliferations for Jill Stanek and that is how I found your blog. Great writing but how do you find the time?
Susie
prolifeintn.blogspot.com
Posted by: Susie | February 10, 2010 10:37 PM
Maddy is such a sweet, gentle soul. I don't think it would've been good for her to be sucked into the Hollywood machine which loves you today and tosses you aside tomorrow. It's a user industry.
It was certainly a good opportunity to expose the world to her talents, though, that's for sure.
May God guide you perfectly, sweet Maddy, as He uses your gifts for His glory!
Posted by: Kim | February 10, 2010 11:49 PM
Maddy was my favorite. What a beautiful voice and natural presence she has.
Posted by: carrie | February 11, 2010 6:00 AM
Maddy, you did a fabulous job. I really didn't understand the judge's decision - you did so well.
But I think, Maddy, that you had a purity that they did not understand, and even perhaps could not see translated into the type of "idol" they are envisioning.
Regardless, you were wonderful and so many of us are extremely proud of you. This certainly won't be a stopping point for you - we will see Maddy Curtis in the future. :)
(()) to all of you!
Posted by: Holly | February 11, 2010 12:41 PM
"Grace builds on nature". Maddy has a special and beautiful talent that God will continue to use to build up His Kingdom!! You done good kid!
Posted by: Wendy | February 11, 2010 1:35 PM
Hey Maddie...I got to know about you thru my family in Leesburg VA, so it was really neat to watch and listen to you on American Idol! You did an amazing job, but bigger and better things are coming to you, I am sure! God Bless you and your family!
Posted by: Pat | February 11, 2010 8:34 PM
What a fantastic gift God has blessed Maddy with! What an awesome gift God has blessed your family with by giving you Maddy! What a treasure.
Hope she will connect with someone in Nashville like Michael W. Smith to help her share the wonderful gift she has. Hollywood is too plastic, Nashville has heart, it is where many good Christian musicians go to share their gifts.
May Our Blessed Mother protect each of you under her mantle of love. (found your site through spiritdaily.com. I am the oldest of 12 children, mother of 4 and grandmother of 1 baby.)
Posted by: Doris Bond | February 11, 2010 11:46 PM
The judges' decision was incomprehensible, but be content to leave it in God's hands. Maybe you'll be better equipped to try in the future? Or maybe this isn't the road that God wants you to take? You stood out from the rest, and I am sure you always will whatever you do. God bless you Maddy.
Posted by: Dominic | February 12, 2010 10:39 AM
Maddy and Barbara,
You don't know me, but I'm another mother of a child with DS. I don't watch AI, but enjoyed watching the YouTubes of Maddy. Maddy, you have an amazing voice, and you are a beautiful young woman. Doris (comment above) was right; you stood out from the rest! Ialso enjoyed watching Maddy with her brothers!
Posted by: Eileen | February 12, 2010 11:16 PM
There is line from the movie 'Chariots of Fire' that comes to mind.
Eric Liddells sister is pressuring him to drop the running gig and get on with the preaching thing.
Eric responds [and I paraphrase], "I know God called me to preach, but HE also made me fast and when I run I feel HIS pleasure."
Maddy,
I pray that we all have the opportunity to experience HIS pleasure when we are exercising the uniqueness of the gifts HE has given of us in our own unique way.
I pray that your gifts will continue to make room for you as you become more familiar and more proficient in them.
4x6=24
Num 6:24
'May the Lord bless and protect you; may the Lord's face radiate with joy because of you; may he be gracious to you, show you his favor, and give you his peace.' TLB
yor bro ken
Posted by: kbhvac | February 13, 2010 3:00 PM
Hi Ken -
Funny you should mention that verse, because Maddy has said it herself; "When I sing, I feel His pleasure."
I love that line - whatever we do, the greatest thing is to feel His pleasure.
Also, the blessing you gave is the one I give my children each morning.
I think you get where our family is coming from :) Thanks.
Posted by: Barbara | February 13, 2010 3:46 PM
Maddy is clearly a special and awesome girl with a beautiful voice and heart - and I love that the world got to see it! I have a dear niece with Downs and she is the BEST - and I love the exposure to the beauty of these children that Maddy was able to bring - all amazing and beautiful. I was not happy that she was so unceremoniously cut but have to admit that I was concerned about what they may try to do to her to make her more "commercial" (read less innocent) as time went on so I think wonderful things were accomplished and all was God's plan! And I am confident that Maddy has a lovely future ahead of her! God bless you all!
Posted by: Nicolette | February 17, 2010 8:59 PM
I was shocked to see she had not made it through. God must have a very different plan for her.
Posted by: Julia | February 27, 2010 7:36 PM
