As with most people, David Cook first captured my attention with his incredible musical talent. At first glance on American Idol, it was apparent to me that the guy posesses an amazing gift. Not the standard "bright and shiny" brand of talent that we see in so many modern-day performers, but something much more unique. A connection with his art that goes well beyond the surface. A connection that is deeply-rooted in his Soul. I heard it the first time I saw him on Idol, and I continue to hear it each time he opens his mouth to sing.

As we learned a bit more about David, it came to light that there was much more to the man than his musical gift. Admittedly I knew nothing of him before AI, but I became more and more impressed as his story began to unfold. Here was a man devoted to his dream of making a life for himself in music. Here was a guy who schlepped his guitar and amp through the dusty plains, taking odd-jobs to make ends meet. He ponied up his own money and money he had borrowed to release an independent CD. He had been working very hard at the game for some years, trading the security of a steady job for the opportunity to do what we see now as clearly what he was meant to do. I have a lot of respect for the courage and determination that must have taken.

We also learned that David Cook is a congenial and compassionate man. One who places a high value on the love of his family and friends, acknowledging that love and support at every opportunity. And as we watched him interact with fans and others outside his circle, it became apparent that David is one of the "good guys" who just cares about people. He knows when to be serious and he knows when to crack a joke, oftentimes making himself the butt of his own humor. He's good at both.

But more than anything, I grew enamored with his constant ability to stand his ground. He went out on a limb, week after week, taking bold risks with his performances. When criticized, he stood up to the criticism and never once compromised his integrity. When there were opportunities to learn, he learned...a sign of true intelligence. But he always did it his way and never apologized for it. He wasn't afraid to be different and remained steadfast in the face of many forces that could have compelled him to be the same. And it paid big dividends. David Cook conducts himself as a man who has a pair, and I have the utmost respect for that.

I'm happy to say that I feel a certain connection to David Cook through the things that he stands for and the man that he seems to be. Through this connection, David has unknowingly given me an incredible gift by reconnecting me with a long-dormant love of music. I'm playing again after many years, and I'm trying my hand at writing for the first time ever. It's very cool, and very real. And I'm thankful for it beyond what words can say.

So for me it's not about some bright, shiny star standing on a pedestal, out of reach. It's not about adoration and worship. It's about identification, connection, and respect Not just for an amazingly gifted artist, but for a man. A man who has something to say, who knows how to say it, and who isn't afraid to do so. David Cook is a gifted guy with a really cool job. But at the end of the day, he's just a guy. And it's that real substance that has kept me watching and listening, and will continue to hold my attention for as long as it lasts.