your dreams

NEGLECTING THE PETS, AND HER OWN CONFINEMENT

I have a recurring dream that I see a parakeet cage and realize I’ve forgotten to clean it and forgotten to feed the birds. Other times I dream that I see a fish tank and notice I’ve forgotten to clean or feed my fish. I have had both birds and fish in the past but currently my only pet is a dog. Why am I dreaming this?

Cynthia Bayley, Rockaway Beach, Queens

Analysis: These dreams reveal a conscientious nature. Think of them as critical self-assessments that ensure against negligence. Yet pets are often substitutes for humans. Perhaps personal upkeep is lacking and your needs have been overlooked. With all this emphasis on cages and tanks — major symbols of confinement — you may feel cooped up. You may need to get out more.

SHE’S DRAWN TO A DIVORCED DAD

I dreamt I sent a text to an old boyfriend now divorced (who I like in reality). I told him I missed him and hoped to see him soon. My phone received a text message that turned into a video chat. He smiled and said “Don’t forget” as he turned the phone toward his four kids having dinner. Then I was in hologram form and the kids asked if I was dating their dad. I said “kind of.” Then I was back looking at my friend through a phone screen. I woke up with butterflies in my stomach. What does this mean? Jayne, Hoboken, N.J.

Analysis: Emotional issues must be clarified — you must have a dialogue, a much needed heart-to-heart with yourself. You must not forget about your boyfriend’s four children. They are a big part of the picture. The hologram surrogate of you suggests fear of commitment: in this transparency, there is no depth to your emotions. It reveals that entering the world of your boyfriend’s large family may be beyond your comfort zone. Your indefinite answer about dating a “dad” signifies conflict and doubt and explains the need to distance yourself and screen yourself off.