THE MAN IN BLACK

The Heaven 500, was just getting started,
an All-Star race, for the racing departed.
Heroes of the track, with nerves like steel,
and sitting on the pole, was a cat named Neil.

Adam Petty was there, with his beautiful smile,
Kenny Irwin determined, to finish in style.
Lee Petty was glowing, with that Grandfather pride,
with Davey & Clifford, both in a new ride.

Fireball Roberts, floated in on a cloud,
while Tony Roper waved, to the Heavenly crowd.
Morrosso & Nemecheck, then Tim Richmond appeared,
Kulwicki strapped in, while the racing fans cheered.

The honorary starter, for this Heavenly race,
Ralph Earnhardt was chosen, a tear on his face.
But the red flag flew, just before it had begun,
and every eye, was open wide, and looking to the SON.

A last minute entry, was the cause of delay,
while the fans were instructed, to kneel and to pray.
The Heavens turned black, and the clouds turned dark,
the lightning was brilliant, the thunder did bark.

Then out of the rumble, for all there to see,
the clouds formed a number, a black number three.
The Heavenly fans, then erupted with pride,
and welcomed this star, who had recently died.

With a bolt of lightning, Dale Earnhardt arrived,
as he stood before Jesus, his spirit revived.
Jesus hugged his precious child, then revealed his perfect plan,
"I brought you home, to let you know, that I'm your biggest fan!"

"The Intimidator was needed, for this Heavenly race,
leaving all of your earthly fans, with honor & with grace."
Ralph Earnhardt then stepped forward, embracing his son,
then whispered in the ear of Dale, "Let's go and have some fun!"

As Ralph stood proud, the green flag flew,
the crowd went wild and the tension grew.
And just like Salvation, the admission was free,
as every eye focused, on the black number three.

When the checkered flag dropped, no dry eyes remained,
it was a photo finish, as Jesus explained.
He said, "There are no losers, on this Heavenly track,
this was a welcome home party, for The Man In Black!"

Written for Teresa,Dale Jr,Kerry,Kelley King,
Taylor Nicole and the millions of dedicated Dale
Earnhardt fans.
Written by...Timothy Jon Barrett
Date Written...Feburary,21,2001