It’s football, not golf, but I’m going to “t-off.” I’m talking Tom Terrific (Brady) vs. Tim Transcendent (Tebow). Despite being outplayed by future hall-of-fame quarterback Tom Terrific last Sunday, Dec. 18th in the Denver Broncos loss to the New England Patriots, Tebow remains a transcendent figure in my eyes
As I’ve previously noted on Facebook and Twitter, I’m not given to hero worship, and Tebow hasn’t sent me into an idolizing frenzy nor a belief that he’s the Messiah. However, many of the qualities he regularly manifests have convinced me that he indeed exceeds the norm, often by a long shot.
I’m most taken by T.T.’s display of strong faith, sincerity, humility and compassion. Similar to the latter trait, Tim has shown great patience with and forgiveness of himself, as well as his teammates. The kindness and sweetness he exudes, even in the midst of trying and exasperating circumstances, are relatively unparalleled characteristics in the NFL. As I tweeted yesterday and said on a radio show today, Mr. T is the “nicest fierce guy I’ve ever (witnessed).”
This QB’s work ethic runs hard, like he does on the field, right along side his fiercely competitive nature–both traits way beyond that of the average pro athlete. And wow, can the dude inspire!– not only his fellow teammates and countless fans, but most of our nation as well as many viewers and followers (including devotees) in some other countries. His self-confidence and belief in his teammates is quite transparent, as is his belief in Jesus.
My jaw dropped last month when Tebow was joined in a prayer circle by several players from the opposing team, in addition to a few Broncos, after one of his patented late-rally victories. That scene was unprecedented by anything I’d observed in over fifty years of watching various levels of football games.
Essentially, I believe that Tim Transcendent has a greater mission than winning football games, despite his passion and intensity for the latter. My sense is that Tim is dedicated to being an exemplar of decency and quiet, humble leadership in an environment of sharks and in a nation replete with corporate monsters. He allows his determination and gentle demeanor to speak volumes for him, all the while serving as a model for onlookers.
So, while I don’t bow before T-Bow, this prince of a man has earned my utmost respect. Teach ‘em good, Timmy T.!
