We were all walking along, somewhere, no idea where, and I turned and looked over my right shoulder. There he was. My Dad. Wearing his ubiquitous khakis, white walking shoes, "that stripey shirt," and his USS Guam hat. I was a bit surprised to see him - you know, since he's passed and all. He simply said "It feels so good to walk." Even in my dream, my heart was soaring. I felt such joy because Daddy hadn't walked on his own in probably 10 years.
He plodded along right next to me. I grabbed his hand. It was warm and as strong as ever. I always adored his hands. I traced his veins with my finger. I got the feeling that we had a longer conversation but all I recall him saying is "I don't know what I'd do without you, Beth. I couldn't live without you." To which I responded "I love you so, so much Daddy," and wrapped my arm through his and rested my head on his shoulder.
We walked along silently for a bit. He smelled good. He smelled like "healthy Dad." He felt good. He felt like "strong Dad." I felt peace. And then I woke up and thought, WTF was that?! I laughed a bit and then went back to sleep.
I've often heard of signs and dreams people receive/have after loved ones have passed. I have wondered if they are actual signs from beyond, or if we "encourage" ourselves to find or force them for our own comfort. Or to answer unanswered questions. Or tend to whatever we need. Or just pure and simple coincidence. At the end of the day, I guess it doesn't really matter. Cuz I got to walk and talk with my Daddy last night, on a warm summer night, hold his hand, and look at the stars. <3
