Description: You encounter a deceased person who was significant in your life and a message is conveyed. There are several variations on this theme that may leave you with a feeling of wonderment, bittersweet joy or exaltation. They may also inspire you to change your life path or give you a belief in an afterlife. They feel real.

Frequency: Many of the motifs are common; others are rare. These dreams typically occur during active grief, which may last years.

Usual meanings: "I'm okay", "I'll always love you", "Go ahead", "Congratulations", "Here's a gift", "Please forgive me" and others.

Questions to ask yourself:

• What happens in your dream?
• Who is the spirit in your dream?
• What is the person/spirit saying to you?