The Ethel Holden Brownstone Center for the Arts on the Pearl River Community College campus was alive with energy as Tim Tebow took the stage on Aug. 29. His talk on “Overcoming Challenges: Living a Mission-Driven Life” captivated a sold-out audience, including Prentiss Christian baseball and football athletes. Prentiss Christian Head Baseball Coach, Kevin Harvey, took the opportunity to spend some quality time with these athletes outside of school. “Tebow delivered a very powerful message that will hopefully guide and direct these student athletes into the future,” said Harvey.

Tebow’s presentation was full of humor and his desire to inspire, rather than just encourage. He encouraged those in the audience to believe in themselves, set a vision, and accomplish it. His inspirational message included being willing to do the hard things, showing up with the right mindset, and facing the obstacles with the right people. “The right mindset helps us do so much more than if we are just thinking about ourselves,” said Tebow. “It is easy to get caught up in things that don’t really matter. Yet, we are all willing to suffer for something. Make it something important.”

Tebow’s willingness to share his Christian faith was present as he spoke about his life and what he has learned. He shared a very powerful story of a young lady who inspired Tebow to see the bigger picture rather than just the athletic award at the end of the night.  He also shared a story about his father who while overseas being a missionary and preaching the word of God, helped to rescue some young girls from a life of turmoil. The phone call from his dad about those young girls encouraged Tebow to start building a safe haven for those in need. Tebow started the Tim Tebow Foundation after graduating from the University of Florida in 2010. The foundation exists to bring faith, hope, and love to those needing a brighter day in their darkest hour.