Three words that get my back arched and fists clenched.
Usually they are used as a preface, by someone whose relationship to Judaism ranges from the marginal and tangential to the suspect or imaginary, in their diatribe against Israel or some other self hating anti-Semitic slur.
However, at this time, as a Jew, I would like to go on record and say that all this vilification of Tim Tebow is sickening and racist. Anyone who denigrates this kid should be ashamed of themselves.
No one mutters a word when Latino athletes, and we’ve all seen this, cross themselves repeatedly after an extra base hit. I’ve seen baseball players pull a cross or a crucifix from under their jersey and kiss it.
If Tebow knelt down on the sidelines on a prayer rug facing Mecca all of his critics would be running at the mouth about how wonderful it is that we are so full of diversity. It’s not because he prays that gets Tebow the attention. It’s because he’s white, English speaking, clean cut and the embodiment of what our ideals should be.
I guess the heroes for our time should be Tom Brady who knocked up his girlfriend and then dumped her. Or Bill Belichik a confirmed violator of NFL rules.
As a Jew, I will be praying for the Denver Broncos.
Specifically for Tim Tebow, that he out passes, out runs and out scores the pretty boy low life.
I will be praying that the Broncos crush the Patriots for Tim Tebow’s sake and nothing else.
I will not be on one knee with my forehead on my hand.
Starting at 9 AM tomorrow I will be praying from a standing position, rocking slightly back and forth and reciting the following,
May He who blessed our forefathers
Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob,
May He bless Tim Tebow, preserve and rescue him from every trouble and distress,
May He send blessing and success for his every endeavor.
Grant him the wisdom and strength to overcome his enemies on the grid of iron.
V’imru Omayn
