The place of the Dream is real. Most people consider that dreams are mere imagination. I am sure that the functions of dreams cover a variety of areas, some of them known, most unknown, at this time. I believe that dream realities and the physical realities are not so far apart as most people think. When we sleep, our minds open and we may leave our bodies for inner realms. The time we spend here is also called dreaming. A person may recall nothing about this, or may remember their experiences with distortions. With practice, you may find that a whole new understanding and the authenticity of this perspective opens to you.

The thought that dreams might open to another reality entirely is not an accepted idea in the Western world. We tend to place the emphasis of understanding dreams in psychological ways of interpreting them. Most psychologists and dream interpreters believe that all dreams are from the subconscious. It is true that all dreams are filtered by the subconscious... and that the subconscious keeps things from us that it deems too frightening or shocking.

Since our society does not see dreams as having a basis in reality, it is considered crazy for someone to believe otherwise. But other cultures and philosophies do not see this viewpoint as unusual or deranged. They believe we are silly to miss out on the opportunities offered in the dream state to learn and become more aware. Try some of the techniques for lucid dreaming and decide for yourself.

There are many books about dreams. They list the symbols that you may find and their meanings. This is a useful step in learning about your dreams, but it is not the final word. Psychology and traditional Western dream interpretation methods do not address Spiritual Growth. In my opinion, this is the most important way that we can use our dreams as tools. They are tools for becoming aware of the world around us and of our place in that world. They can be used to understand ourselves, others, past lives; for gaining insights, opening up to higher planes, working out Karma, and much more.

Dreams can help us to see ourselves more clearly. This is not always pleasant. Sometimes the things that we see show us that we are not what we have imagined ourselves to be. Profiting from these types of dreams means that we have to be honest, as well as non-judgmental with ourselves. We have to learn to accept where we are, at this moment, and do it without guilt, blame, etc. Then do something concrete bring our lives into a place that is closer to what where we wish we were. In order to be the person that you want to be, you have to start being that person! If there is some path we wish we were on, rather than the one we are on, a powerful, memorable dream can help give us a "push" or even a yearning towards the goal. In any case, if you treat your dreams as more than mere fantasy or subconscious ramblings, you may receive much benefit and wisdom from your experiences.

You may have dreams about a teacher, a place that you always go to learn. You may find yourself experiencing some very different realities if you are open to it. There are many other planes that are accessible through the dream state. With practice, you will be able to remember them and they will become very vivid and clear.

I have mentioned that dreams are often distorted. I should add that they are often censored by a part of the mind that is concerned with survival instincts. Sometimes the things that are revealed through dreams may be very upsetting or even frightening. In this case you are protected from the knowledge by forgetting the experience or distorting it so that is more psychologically bearable. You will be given as much truth in your dreams, as you are able to handle at any given time. Continued on Page 3...