SOME DREAMS OFFER LIFE REVIEWS. Today’s dreamer brings an explicit example in which she sees herself as she once was and is challenged to look back over her life with gratitude instead of regret.

Dear SMYD,
I’ve reached a point in my life that has me looking back and thinking about what has been and what will be. I have to admit to a disappointed feeling. It just seems like most of my life was spent dealing with other people’s problems and needs. Now, my kids are off on their own, living their own lives, oblivious to me and their dad. My friends seem to assume that all is well with me since I don’t complain or spill my frustrations when we’re together. I always put everyone else before myself. I know I’m supposed to enjoy this last phase of life, but I’m just not feeling it.

Now I’ve had this dream and it has a sad feeling too:

I am standing in front of a mirror. My hair is styled the way I used to wear it. I look younger and alert and healthy and frisky.

I have been called to testify in a trial or hearing of some kind. The parties involved found me via my maiden name. I had forgotten that name, so didn’t know I was supposed to be there. Now, because the court found me, I will inherit a large sum of money. But I woke up feeling sad and full of regret.

It doesn’t make sense. Why would I be sad when I’m going to inherit a large sum?

Signed, Plaintiff

Dear Plaintiff,

Your dream has you looking at yourself in a mirror — the perfect metaphor for self-assessment. You see yourself as you were and as you can be.

In addition, your dream moves you to a venue that offers the same type of life review in which you are engaged in your waking life. In a trial, the facts are told and conclusions are drawn. For you, the results are clear: No matter that the mirror reflects someone younger, healthier, happier and friskier; you don’t recognize those qualities in yourself any more. You don’t remember your name — your identity — from those days. You have forgotten who you once were.

It seems you have spent a long time in life without enjoying the journey or appreciating the inheritance you have had all along, Dear Dreamer. Your children are successful. Your husband and your friends count for wealth unappreciated. If you are on trial, your dream suggests you are guilty of selfish grumbling when you have many things for which to rejoice. Do you truly regret being a help to your family and friends when they needed you?

You say you set your own needs and desires aside? Now is the time to bring them to the forefront. When that frisky part of yourself is found and reestablished you will have the substantial inheritance — a happy final phase of life — that has been waiting for someone like you.

Sweet Dreams to you!

Carolyn Plath, M.Ed., is a Benicia resident and member of the International Association for the Study of Dreams. Reach her at sendmeyourdreams@yahoo.com.

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