Dreaming

Dreaming is another means by which we can access spiritual realms, our intuition, important information, and creativity, to name just a few benefits. I am not alone in this contention. We can turn to the First Peoples of Turtle Island to gain insight into their wisdom about dreaming. Renowned Ojibwe author, Richard Wagamese (2016), wrote about what his Elders had to say about dreams: "My Elders say that the dream world is a reality, just as valid, just as vibrant, just as alive as the physical world. Dreams are not illusory things. They are meant to teach us, guide us. They ask us to use our intuition to interpret them. That’s their biggest gift-returning us to our intuition, our highest level of thought. When we intuit, we think spiritually with a free, flowing energy" (p. 97). Michi Saagiig Nishnaabeg author, scholar, and artist, Leanne Betasamosake Simpson (1999), discussed the importance of dreams when she wrote, "Dreaming and visioning are often the way knowledge is transmitted from the spiritual world to humans” (p. 38). Anishinaabe lawyer and scholar, John Borrows (2010), acknowledged how his dreams assisted him in writing his book: “For three months I experienced a wonderful pattern: dream, discuss, write, discuss, dream, discuss, write, discuss, et cetera,” (p. xi). Both Indigenous scholars, Jo-Anne Archibald (2008) from the Sto:lo Nation and Kathleen Absolon (2011) who is Anishinaabe kwe from the Flying Post First Nation also reveal that their dreams assisted in them in writing their doctoral dissertations. Lee Maracle (2017), in her book, My Conversations with Canadians, states that for people who are Ojibway or Cree, “the dreaming world is the important world” (p. 128).  Mohawk psychologist and academic, Gayle Skawen:nio Morse, also contends the importance of dreaming to the Haudenosaunee: "Growing up in a Kanien´kehá:ka (Mohawk) community, I was deeply aware of and connected to the spirit and dream world. Breakfast started with my grandmother asking me, “What did you dream about last night?” When I was older, she explained that our dreams carried lessons and instructions from our ancestors and we needed to pay close attention to them" (p. 86).

For as long as I can remember, I have paid close attention to my dreams. So much so, that I believe my dreamtime is as important as my waking time. As my day draws to a close, it feels like a curtain is opening to another reality where I start to recall dreams from the night before.

I have always had good dream recall. When I was 20 years old, I began recording my dreams. I wanted to ensure that I documented dreams that I felt had important messages to convey. I believe the act of recording dreams actually further improved my dream recall. They revealed many of my past lives which enabled me to access these other realities and learn more about myself and how they impact my current life. My dreams have provided information to protect me and predict future events. Too many to count! They have also been mediums in which I can access my guides and loved ones who have passed. Communication with the spirit realm is quite frequent, and when your loved ones show up in your dreams, they are most likely visiting you from the other side.

If you want to learn more about yourself, tap into your creative side, access your subconscious, and connect with the spiritual realm, I highly recommend recording your dreams. You don't need a diary as I have pictured here. I started out writing on 81/2x11" lined paper and stored them in old binders. Now with technology, you can easily voice record your dreams immediately upon waking although I do find the actual practice of writing helps you to embody the dream. Watch what your dreams tell you. Some of the most profound lessons I've learned have been through my dreams. I've even met loved ones in my dreams before actually meeting them in person. In my opinion, dreams are portals of inner knowing.

For those of you who do not recall your dreams, before you fall asleep, tell yourself that you will remember your dream. Keep doing this each evening and you should be able to start remembering your dreams. It can take awhile though. Don't give up.

Happy Dreaming!