Losing a loved one is one of the deepest pains a person can experience—something no replacement can ever heal. Because of this profound emotional bond, many people find themselves dreaming of relatives who have passed away.

In reality, death does not truly mean disappearance. Some believe that a person truly “dies” only when no one in the world remembers them anymore. Just like great figures of the past whose physical lives ended long ago, the spirit, influence, and memory of our loved ones continue to live on in our hearts.

When we dream of deceased relatives, interpretations vary. Some people believe these dreams carry messages from the departed, while others see them as reflections of daily memories and subconscious emotions. So, are such dreams a good omen or a bad one? Below are three common perspectives that may help you understand them better.

---

1. Unfulfilled Wishes of the Deceased

If you repeatedly dream about a deceased family member, it may be helpful to reflect on whether they seemed to express any unfulfilled wishes or requests in the dream.

From a Buddhist perspective, the universe is an interconnected cycle, and death is not an endpoint but a transition within the cycle of rebirth. After leaving the physical world, the soul continues its journey. Therefore, some believe that dreams may serve as reminders of unresolved matters or emotional attachments left behind.

In this view, reflecting on the person’s needs, promises, or wishes before they passed away—and fulfilling them if possible—can bring peace both to the living and, symbolically, to the deceased.

---

2. “Daytime Thoughts, Nighttime Dreams”

Psychologically, dreams are often shaped by strong emotions and memories. When you deeply miss someone who has passed away, related images, words, and experiences naturally surface in your subconscious.

This is especially true for those with whom you shared a close bond. The mind collects fragments of memories and emotions and weaves them into dreams, creating the illusion of direct interaction. Even after waking up, you may still feel as if their presence lingers.

In truth, these dreams reflect a longing for emotional connection. The deceased becomes a source of comfort in moments of vulnerability, helping the mind cope with grief.

Additionally, because the living can no longer see or interact with the deceased, the brain often preserves only the warm and beautiful memories, filtering out pain and conflict. This makes dreams of loved ones both vivid and emotionally powerful.

---

3. Facing Reality and Healing Emotionally

First and foremost, it is important to accept a difficult truth: the deceased cannot return. Those who remain must learn to face this reality and gradually adjust their emotional state.

Remaining trapped in sorrow for too long can hinder healing. Most would agree that our loved ones would not want us to live in constant pain. Therefore, dreaming of them should not be a source of fear or excessive worry. Instead of questioning whether such dreams are “good” or “bad,” it is more important to focus on rebuilding life and finding balance again.

The deceased have already gone on their journey; the living must continue theirs. Living a meaningful, fulfilling life is the greatest comfort we can offer to those who have passed away. For those who believe in karma and rebirth, performing good deeds and cultivating compassion are seen as ways to accumulate blessings and reduce suffering in the future.

---

Items Often Best Let Go After a Loved One Passes Away

When someone dies, their personal belongings can carry deep emotional significance. However, holding on to too many items may negatively affect emotional healing, both for ourselves and for future generations.

1. Worn Clothing

Clothes often carry a person’s scent and memories. While comforting at first, keeping them for too long can prevent emotional acceptance of the loss and prolong grief. In some cases, it may even cause psychological distress.

2. Favorite Personal Items

Cherished possessions can become emotional burdens if kept in excess. While keeping one or two meaningful items is reasonable, holding on to too many can prevent people from embracing a new chapter in life.

3. Old Shoes

Shoes symbolize a person’s life journey, but worn shoes can accumulate dirt and bacteria, posing health risks. More importantly, clinging to them may keep one emotionally stuck in the past.

4. Hats or Accessories

Items that strongly reflect a person’s identity may repeatedly trigger sorrow and unresolved emotions, becoming a long-term psychological burden.

Handling belongings wisely helps the living process loss in a healthier way and move forward with clarity.

---

When Parents Pass Away: Painful Truths of Middle Age

The loss of parents is often described as the greatest sorrow in life. Parents are our emotional anchors—their love and care provide warmth and security. When they pass away, that sense of protection disappears.

Their death marks a turning point. We must learn to face life independently, take responsibility, and endure greater challenges. Grief can feel overwhelming, as if a meteor has shattered a once-happy life.

Yet, after such loss, we must learn to become stronger. Living with gratitude, remembering our parents’ sacrifices, and cherishing those still around us are ways to honor them.

---

Family Bonds After Parents Are Gone

Parents often serve as the emotional bridge between siblings. After they pass away, sibling relationships may gradually weaken due to distance, busy lives, unresolved conflicts, or differences in personality.

Without the warmth that once held the family together, siblings may slowly become distant. This makes communication, understanding, and compassion even more important. Maintaining family bonds requires conscious effort.

---

Becoming Aware of Mortality

The death of parents often forces us to confront our own mortality. It makes us reflect on the meaning of life and the inevitability of death. Though frightening at first, accepting death as part of life can deepen our appreciation for living.

Rather than fearing death, we are encouraged to value each day, live kindly, and live well.