Michael and Buffy Waltrip's letter to fans from motorsports.com February 2001
Dear Race Fans and our friends in the NASCAR community:
Words will never be able to describe how we feel about the death of our friend Dale Earnhardt, but the love and affection from the entire racing community has been overwhelming and comforting. We find strength in your prayers and ask that you all pray for the entire Earnhardt family.
The NASCAR community will move on through this trying time, but we will never be the same, nor will the sport. Dale Earnhardt was the sport of NASCAR for the last two decades. His presence in the sport set a standard of excellence that may never be reached again. His spirit will dwell in the garage forever.
Scripture tells us that God made the following command to Joshua:
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9.
We must all be strong and trust in the Lord. Dale was strong yet softer than most people will ever know. All of us, drivers, crews and fans owe Dale the respect of carrying on with pride and dignity. He would have done the same for anyone of us. We can not let his early departure be in vain.
