I will share this with everyone:
I asked Eric twice not to race on that Saturday and again Sunday morning. Then I pleaded with him. I can't let that go and I need help with that.
Dave Moss
Dave,
I will say my two cents with this, as I have been in the same situation as you are now. (forgive my incoherent babbling as I am still taking back by this news)
Remember it is not your fault. While you may think you could have stopped this, there was no way for you truely know what was to occur. There is no way for you to stop certain actions of a determined man; Eric raced because he loved to race. I can't imagine Eric looking back and saying he wishes he never experienced the moto lifestyle, competition and people, despite what happened.
And I know no matter what I say, you will justify guilt in your mind, because it is the natural progression of sorrow. I have lost many people in my life, a few right in front of my eyes, but beating myself up with "if we just didn't ride 9 today", "if I just stepped in and said something", "if I just didn't let her go" not only will I have lost someone I love, but I would have lost myself.
Eric never blamed you, but still he forgives, although he doesn't understand why forgiving is needed. I promise you he does. Don't beat yourself up about it. Rejoice in memories of Eric, and the fact you had the pleasure to meet him, as opposed to not suffering with this by having never known him.
Your friends are always here if you need them,
Dan