Dream to Dreamer: Go your own way

Our dreams speak to us in the universal language of symbols and metaphors.  Certain archetypal images apply no matter the culture of the dreamer.  Today’s dreamer offers an excellent case in point.

Dear SMYD,

In my country, marriages are made with promises.  “Lola” promised me and I love her so much.  My aunt says to Lola that I am not serious with her.  I tried to prove to her that I am serious.  I am even praying that I want to get married to this lady.  My pressure is that I may not lose her but get her for my life.

I dreamt crossing the river.  We were many; but the river has little water which was also pure.  In some places we were walking on the dry sand to avoid getting wet.  Others looked to be afraid.  So we were all encouraging each other that no people left behind.  Faith works.  As we crossed we were singing a certain song that says believe all are possible.  We manage to cross through. 

After crossing I took my own way.  Others were going to the near town, but it seems to me I was going to another town.  But I was able to communicate with them as if I am with them.  One lady said I will deposit you the money which I have.  So I was happy. 

Then I saw Lola, but we are not yet in agreement.  Lola said my aunt told her, “He doesn’t mind about you.”  I said, “No it is not true.”  Then we were in the river bank after crossing.  That’s where I met her.  The forest of that place was so beautiful and was green but there was a way which we were using to pass.

So please what does this mean?

Signed,

Wanting to Marry Lola

Dear Wanting,

Crossing a river is symbolic of crossing any threshold into a new way of thinking and a new life.  Your dream reflects that crossroads in your life.  You must be brave and cross into new territory in order to prove yourself and have the one you love.

Perhaps you have been afraid like the people in your dream.  Your dream points out that you must now go your own way – to the other town, not the one that is closest and easiest to get to.  Even though your fears come to the forefront, a song of encouragement assures you that faith works and all things are possible. 

Sure enough, Dear Dreamer, when you reach the other side, you learn that the “money is in the bank.”  And better still, Lola is there waiting for you.

Your dream offers you confidence that though you may feel anxious, now is not the time to follow the crowd.  This is how you prove to yourself and Lola that you are serious.  Only when you go your own way are your prayers answered.  It is then that you find yourself in the beautiful and green forest with the woman you love.

Sweet Dreams to You!

SMYD

sendmeyourdreams@yahoo.com        

Hooray! Picked for the Team

Our Dreamer Writes:

Dear SMYD,

I dreamed that I was picked to play on a softball team.  I felt very excited and happy and just giggled and grinned as the selection of team members continued. 

Jessica, a much-admired former colleague, was choosing team members, or she was already on the team and wanted me there, too.

Signed,

Not Really Athletic 

Dear Not Really,

Sounds like you would love to be on any team, any time with Jessica.  She seems to be a favorite person for you.  Why is that true?  Is she smart and energetic?  Efficient, funny, dedicated, determined?  Your dream suggests that all the good things you can think of in describing Jessica are also be true of you!  Your dream says you can join that “Jessica Team” with glee.  You have the credentials.

Your dream may be relating to the potential for working with a group of people you’re interested in, or it may simply be giving you that boost in self-confidence you need.  You say you're not really athletic, but your Dreaming Self picked you for the team.  Your dream says you have all the right stuff.

Are you anticipating new collaborative circumstances?  Your dream implies a “green light.”  All systems are “go” for a good experience.

Pretty prospects and Sweet Dreams to you!

SMYD

sendmeyourdreams@mail.com               

Dreams of a Rabid Sports Fan & A Rejected Friend

Our Dreamer Writes:

Dear SMYD,

I’m a big SF Giants fan, but I have a feeling this dream is not really about their famous closer.  What do you think?

I dreamed that Brian Wilson had shaved his distinctive beard.  I saw only his face, like a floating head in front of me.  His face looked a little pudgy and he had nicked himself in several places. 

He was planning to leave the Giants and go into another completely unrelated line of work.  He said something to the effect that he had been uncomfortable for a while and wanted to move on.  I was surprised, but understood his decision.

Signed,

A Rabid Fan

Dear Rabid Fan,

Our dreams choose images and people from our lives and use them as metaphors to illustrate and help us understand our own circumstances. 

Your dreaming self chose an extremely distinctive character indeed!  Brian Wilson is well known for his unmistakable appearance (not to mention his scorching fastball!). 

But you’re correct – your dream is more likely to be about you and your life, than about Brian Wilson and his.  A useful approach to a figure like this in a dream is first to think about what kind of person he is and what he stands for.

We could say Brian Wilson is a well-defined figure with a strong skillset.  Are you like that?  Are you well known for a particular thing and that thing only?  Do you love it on the one hand, while feeling restless or uncomfortable with it on the other hand?

For Wilson to change his trademark look could signify a major change for you, Dear Dreamer.  Have you made a big adjustment in your life, your very identity, or are you considering one?  Have you been feeling uncomfortable for a while, even though you do something very well and are even known for it?  Are you thinking of making a key shift in your life’s work or your mode of operating?

As in your dream, the new you would seem different from the person you’re known to be.  Some people (even you!) might be surprised by the change, but they would understand and respect it. 

Moving on requires parting with what’s familiar and customary, leaving some habits behind.  Those might be things that are expected by others, but no longer satisfying for you.  Your dream suggests you’ve made your decision on some level. 

Be true to yourself, Dear Dreamer!  Oh, and Go Giants!

SMYD

Our Dreamer Writes:

Dear SMYD,

I dreamed I was trying to hug my friend Elaine (not her real name), but she didn’t want to hug me.  She turned her head, made a face, and pushed me away.  I tried again, but no use. 

I’ve known her a long time and we’ve hugged many times.  Why would she turn away like that?

Signed,

Rejected in Schenectady

Dear Rejected,

Could it be that you’re trying to be something you’re not?

Think about Elaine.  What qualities does she have that you might be trying to embrace?  Realistically, you can only be yourself.  When you try too hard to be like someone else, or to get too close to someone else, you run the risk of putting him or her off.  This can put a frown on an otherwise friendly relationship.

What is the benefit of becoming more like Elaine?  Must you discount yourself to achieve your goal?  If so, you lose more than you gain in the process.

Consider backing away just a little from Elaine, or from whatever/whomever you might be pursuing.  Gain some perspective and perhaps you will see a better method of approaching your friend, or developing the quality you so desire.  Work to recognize your own desirable traits and strongest talents. 

Be a friend to yourself, Dear Dreamer!

SMYD