Monday, April 6, 2015
The Gatling and The Dingle families were neighbors in the early '60's on 203rd St. in St. Albans, NY. But, even moreso, we were like family...from our parents who were friends to we, the children. Jimmy and Connie hung out with Brenda and Beverly; Niecy played with Bernice and myself. Marvin was a baby at the time. Bernice and I, along with our other friends on the block, Daisy and Debbie, LOVED to play with Niecy! We would run and play up and down the street, sit on each other's stoops and, especially, play on the swings set in her backyard! We were about 7-8 years old when the Gatlings moved to Amityville. So for us children, the distance was great and Bernice & I missed Niecy a lot. And as time went on, we lost touch with each other for many years....until Facebook! Then, a few years ago, I heard from my friend! I was so happy that we became friends there, playing games like Farmville, Candy Crush, etc. We never got to hang out again physically, but would stay in touch via Facebook. Six months ago, sadly at the passing of Mrs. Gatling, was the first time in about 50 years that we laid eyes on one another and it was as if no time had passed. My sister, Bernice and I just wanted to tarry with Niecy and the family for as long as time would allow. I thank God for allowing the time for us to share together. He showed us that we cannot take one second for granted and because God holds tomorrow, we must make the most of everything we do today. I praise God, even in my grief and sorrow, that Niecy is now in His presence with her mother, my mom and dad, totally healed and spending eternity in Paradise with The Lord! As my Dad used to say, "We'll see each other again, by and by." Rest in Paradise, my childhood friend. It is well, with my soul.
Love and peace,
Blanche Dingle
