Unlock the power of your dreams
Bestselling author and renowned dream expert Kelly Sullivan Walden decodes the dreams of four FIRST readers.
“I’m a helpful mermaid!”
DREAM: “I’m in the midst of a war of some kind and I dive into the ocean, where I’m transformed into a mermaid! I swim to where the bombs were going off to help heal people.” —Skylar Maurer, Tupelo, MS WHAT IT’S TELLING YOU: “I believe your subconscious is hinting that you’re a natural caretaker, as water symbolizes sensitivity and empathy. As a mermaid capable of swimming far and deep, you can help soothe people around the world. Though the challenges represented by war are extreme, no matter who or what you may be battling in waking life, your own healing will begin once you take a deep dive into what you truly want from life by exploring your aspirations and showing yourself the same compassion you show others.”
“A lotus is blooming!”
DREAM: “I was standing on a bridge and suddenly I decided to throw my old clothes into the water below. As soon as I did, a huge lotus flower began blooming from the water. Can you tell me what this means?” —Michelle Gary, Warwick, RI
WHAT IT’S TELLING YOU: “The lotus flower is the ultimate symbol of transformation: Since its beautiful, bountiful blossoms emerge from even the darkest water, it represents the hope and wisdom that spring from overcoming a difficult challenge. And because our clothes represent the roles we play and the facade we show the world, throwing them off a bridge implies that you’re shedding your attachments to an old identity you’ve outgrown. Indeed, I believe your dream is reflecting a time of great reward and continued growth as you blossom into an even more magnificent version of yourself.”
“I made a discovery!”
DREAM: “I was a scientist, giving a speech about a more efficient type of fuel I’d invented—it felt so real, like this discovery would revolutionize the world! I just wish I could remember the formula!”
—Lydia Herrera, Saginaw, MI
WHAT IT’S TELLING YOU: “When we dream of inventing something, we’re tapping into the part of our mind that has the answers to our every question. Take heart knowing that you’re in excellent company: Some of the most creative thinkers, from Leonardo da Vinci to Albert Einstein, drew inspiration from their dreams to contribute to science and art. Even if you can’t recall the details of your dream, it’s likely telling you the answer regarding a long-held goal is at your fingertips. I encourage you to journal about or meditate on a problem you’re striving to solve to help spark your ‘inner scientist.’ The next dream you have will send you a clearer picture about how to bring your insights into the waking world.”
“My husband betrays me!”
DREAM: “I was driving through an unfamiliar neighborhood when I noticed a woman embracing my husband—they got into a red sports car and drove away! I wake up in tears. Is this dream telling me what I think it is?” —Angie Kessee, Kansas City, MO
WHAT IT’S TELLING YOU: “I can imagine how upsetting this must have been, but please know that dreams are often just symbolic—only you can truly know if it’s pointing to a real-life scenario, or if it’s simply trying to help you work out other insecurities. For example, since everyone in your dreams represents an aspect of yourself, seeing your partner cheating could be a message that you’re ‘cheating’ yourself out of an opportunity. In other words, pay attention to promises you’ve made to yourself and remain faithful to doing what it takes to honor your needs by ‘driving’ toward new, exciting adventures.”