All in a Dream

Q: I had a recurring dream for 10 years. I no longer have it, but could not find any reference to it in any dream interpretation books. The dream involved a bare tree, telephone post, goal post, or cross, with a snake (sometimes with fur) wrapped around it every so often, and it was falling down on top of me - crushing me underneath. The dream was so real, so lifelike, that I would sort of wake up during the dream, standing on the bed, touching the fan, light or ceiling. What IS the interpretation of this dream?

Eve in Upper Darby

A: Hello Eve,

This dream is probably reflecting some sexual issues you may have had at the time. The posts and trees are, well, phallic in shape, and the snake is a traditional symbol of sexuality. Even the fur could symbolize pubic hair. The cross represents your spiritual values or, at the very least, a restrictive influence regarding sex, and perhaps reveals a conflict within you pertaining to your sexuality. Were you brought up to believe that sexual feelings were dangerous, something to be contained or restricted?

Additionally, the feeling of being crushed may reflect the stress caused by the conflict within you. Or, it could just be a feeling you have on a conscious or unconscious level when actually having sex! Also, I think there's a power issue here as well. Feeling crushed suggests you're powerless to move or get free. Again, this doesn't have to be in a literal, physical sense. The dream may reflect your desire to break free of your inner conflict. I suggest meditating on the symbols in the dream, but picturing yourself free and powerful to manipulate them as you wish. This exercise will help to empower you if you ever feel constricted again - while awake or in the dream state.

Sweet dreams,
Cortney

Is it love?

Q: I have been with my wife for nine years and married for five. We have gone through some tough times recently, and are going back and forth about whether we are staying together or getting divorced. We are both Capricorns: my birthday is 12/29/65 and hers is 1/14/72. She had an affair with a coworker that she says is over, but I feel it's not. He is a Sagittarius, born 12/12/73. Am I wasting my time?

Chris in Long Island

A: Hello Chris,

Two Capricorns can certainly understand each other well, but you can also have a tendency to get stuck in a security-oriented rut. Fortunately, because you both have Venus (love) in friendly, progressive Aquarius, your relationship can benefit from being best friends who give each other room for personal growth. And it's the best sign for bringing new energy and activities into a relationship to keep the flame alive. Spontaneity and sharing new interests are ways to liven up your love. As for the Sagittarian in the picture, he energizes your wife's Jupiter in Sagittarius, the sign known for its expansiveness, spirituality and sense of fun and adventure. You have Mercury (communications) in Sag, so you have these traits as well.

To reignite the passion between you, access your Sagittarius side by taking your wife on a trip - something daring or spiritually oriented, such as whitewater rafting, hiking in the wilderness or going on a retreat. Take her to a comedy show to lighten things up. Share your ideals and faith with her to reestablish your spiritual bond. With Jupiter transiting into Capricorn throughout 2008, your spiritual connection and need for growth within your relationship can be stronger than ever. Plus, being lovers, as well as best friends who support each other's interests and ideals, will enable your love to grow.

Best of luck to you both,
Cortney