The Bird Man of the Afterlife

Date: 10/9/2016

*This is a dream that I had years ago that has always stuck with me* I was amongst several people that were all my age. As a very socially awkward person (I have a few mental illnesses), I didn't fit in with them at all. The group came to outcast me. I recall sitting on a cliffside, overlooking an tropical ocean. I was so upset and in tears. This was when it appeared. There was a tall being that appeared behind me. It was made of this bright energy, cloaked in white, and wore a sort of mask that resembled that of a plague doctor's. It had this wonderful aura about it, giving off this sense of joy making me feel so happy. The being then spoke to me. It told me it was the guardian of the afterlife. What I saw before me was where everything goes when it dies. There were huge trees everywhere, even coming out of the water. Upon each individual branch, a creature that had died was sleeping in the tree. I was told they sleep there for eternity, dreaming. The most impressionable thing I was told was that, despite my beliefs, I did have a purpose. My true purpose was meant to be fulfilled once I died. While I was alive, though, my purpose was to live depressed, but to also positively affect those around me. The effects I have on the living are to impact their lives. I am meant to be sad. *I know this may not seem the greatest purpose. To be depressed throughout life is a bit harsh, but whenever I think of what the being I now call the bird man told me, I feel so much better.*

AI generated interpretation The dream you have described contains several significant symbols and themes that can be examined to gain a deeper understanding of its meaning. 1. Social Alienation: The dream starts with you feeling socially awkward and out of place among a group of people your age. This likely reflects your real-life experiences and feelings of not fitting in or being accepted by others due to your mental illnesses. It suggests a sense of isolation and loneliness. 2. Tears and Upset: The powerful emotions of sadness and distress that you experience in the dream could indicate the depth of your emotional struggles in waking life. It highlights the emotional pain you may carry as a result of your mental illnesses and the difficulties you face in connecting with others. 3. The Bird Man: The appearance of the tall being, whom you call the Bird Man, represents a powerful and mystical force in your dream. As the guardian of the afterlife, the Bird Man symbolizes wisdom, guidance, and spiritual connection. Its bright energy and joyful aura are a stark contrast to the negative emotions you were feeling initially. 4. Purpose and Meaning: The Bird Man explains to you the purpose of your existence, both in life and after death. It suggests that your true purpose will only be fulfilled after death, but while alive, your purpose is to positively impact the lives of others, even through your own struggles with depression. This message highlights the potential significance and value of your experiences, emphasizing the importance of finding meaning and positive impact despite personal struggles. Overall, the dream seems to be offering you a message of hope and reassurance. While it acknowledges the challenges you face due to your mental illnesses, it also suggests that your experiences can serve a purpose, even if it is not entirely clear or fulfilling during your lifetime. The dream encourages you to find solace in your ability to positively affect others, highlighting the potential for growth, connection, and meaningful impact that can arise from your struggles.