I've often wondered what might have been.

One of my true heroes in NASCAR racing is Tim Richmond. Energetic and suave, professional and competitive, Richmond was far ahead of his time. Before all of the Dale Carnegie courses became a prerequisite for many drivers, he had an instinctive feel for what it took to please sponsors and win over the media. In my opinion, there has been nobody since that has possessed that natural gift.

In recent years, the fans of NASCAR have loudly voiced their displeasure at NASCAR's avoidance to honor Richmond. Campaigns have been established, letters are written and demonstrations staged -- all with the good intentions of recognizing a great race driver. It seems, however, that NASCAR has no interest in honoring this fan favorite. And I'd bet they never will.

Eleven years ago, Tim Richmond died of AIDS. It was determined that his lifestyle was the catalyst that led to the demise of a great career. Victims of the deadly disease will always carry in illicit stigma -- there is always that degree of shame associated with those infected with HIV. I can understand NASCAR's position and I can understand the dismay of fans as well. The fans want their hero honored and NASCAR wants to distance themselves from any possible inferences that they might condone an out-of-mainstream lifestyle. Had Richmond lost his life in any other manner, I believe that things would be much different. But it's not, and neither the voice of the fans, the media or the racing fraternity in general will have an impact on any changes in thought. The point is most certainly moot.

The whole Richmond/NASCAR scenario took on a much-behind-the-scenes life. The legal issues and court settlement has been a very prevalent aspect of the whole picture. In fact, some of the court documents stipulate that NASCAR is bound not to address the issue in any form. I think that a lot of the distance has been created through the justice system -- and maybe "justice" is a poor term for this legal issue.

I am not here to denounce the fans cause, or am I going to attempt to support NASCAR's side; I wish simply to make a few points and throw my opinion in the mix.

I have always been in favor of honoring the living. Posthumous awards, dedications and the like have never really moved me. We celebrated Alan Kulwicki's life in perfect fashion; honoring his determination and his ability to achieve a goal far out of reach for most. Although the festivities were cut short a few months after his Championship, he was still able to enjoy the fruits of his labor.

The deaths J.D. McDuffie, Neil Bonnett, Davey Allison and others haven't really caused much of an outpouring to NASCAR and each in their own way were standout members of the racing fraternity. So why all the fuss with Richmond? Well, I believe that much of our human nature comes into play -- we usually strive to attain the results we cannot have. And I don't think there is anything wrong with that either; it's just a plain fact that we won't be able to change the outcome in this particular case.

For my money, I'd rather see us do more to honor some of the living. Look at what Bobby Allison has accomplished and endured in our sport. Now there's an example of NASCAR shunning someone. I would venture to say that NASCAR could have come to Allison's aid with a hip-pocket sponsor so that he wouldn't have had to close his doors penniless. How about people like Bud Moore and the Wood Brothers? Let's rally to get them recognized and educate our new fans on what their respective contributions have done for our sport.

I think that more of an issue should have been made about Terry Labonte starting his 600th consecutive event. What other athlete has achieved something on that level. I think that Barney Hall should be recognized for his broadcasting contributions and his ability to personalize what has become a very confusing business. People like Jack Roush who helped develop the roof flaps and Bill Simpson who designed so much of the safety factors that keep our heroes alive -- that's what I'd like to see.

There is nothing wrong with remembering Tim Richmond. I still think of him every time that I pierce a new can of Folgers and savor the scent; but I think that we should continue to pursue efforts to honor those who are still with us and allow them to enjoy our praise for jobs well done.

Tim Richmond was a people-person. And I do believe that somewhere, somehow, someway he knows and appreciates our concern to remember him -- but I also believe that it's time to let the issue rest -- in peace.

Reach Mike Calinoff at racemedia@msn.com