Cross' Words: Never forget

Six years ago, NASCAR Nation was mourning the loss of Dale Earnhardt, and heralding the arrival of Kevin Harvick. ... Six years later, Dale Earnhardt Inc. remains in the headlines but often for the wrong reasons, in the eyes of Junior Nation.

Six years ago, Jeff Gordon was winning his fourth Cup championship. ... Six years later, Gordon should have two more championships -- except for ...

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Six years ago, Brian France was only dreaming of the Chase. ... Six years later, we're four seasons into a playoff system that remains under debate.

Six years ago, Clint Bowyer, Denny Hamlin and Martin Truex Jr. were dreaming of racing in the Cup Series. ... Six years later, all three are in the running for the championship.

Six years ago, Sterling Marlin, Johnny Benson, Jerry Nadeau, Jimmy Spencer, Ken Schrader and Bobby Hamilton ran the entire season. ... Six years later, all of them are out of a Cup driver's seat -- for six different reasons.

Six years ago, a Toyota is what some fans showed up to tailgate in. ... Six years later, not only do fans tailgate in a Toyota but several are in the race lineup.

Six years ago, the Car of Tomorrow was a blip on the radar. ... Six years later, the COT is here to stay (and not just because you can't use the chrome horn to move it out of your way).

Six years ago, "Boogity, boogity, boogity" was a cute companion to the green flag. ... Six years later, "Whoa, Nellie!" it ain't ... but it's the best broadcast in the sport.

Six years ago, Buffet Benny's was a staple in many kitchens. ... Six years later, we've missed his homespun analysis more than anyone wants to admit.

Six years ago, Robert Yates was two years removed from winning the championship with driver Dale Jarrett. ... Six years later, Yates is leaving the business with second-year driver David Gilliland as the face of the franchise.

Six years ago, Kurt Busch was a brash rookie with Roush Racing. ...Six years later, Busch is a brash Cup champ now with Penske Racing.

Six years ago, Andy Houston made 17 starts as a rookie. ... Six years later, he hasn't made a Cup Series start since finishing 18th at Kansas on Sept. 30, 2001.

Six years ago, Sept. 11 was a Tuesday. It was a beautiful morning. Families were whole. ... Six years later, Sept. 11 is a Tuesday. It is another beautiful day. But there are holes in the fabric of many families, torn by the events of that fateful day six years ago -- and in the days in the wake of 9/11.

Never forget that day -- the feelings of helplessness, the despair, the tears. ... Never forget today -- when you can take a moment to tell someone that you love them, or thank someone in the services for their sacrifices.

It's because of them that each of us have had at least six more years. (Continued)