Today is a wondrous anniversary for me. It marks the 41st anniversary of my baptism as a Christian and the 31st anniversary of my reception into the Roman Catholic Church. Although I no longer call the Roman Catholic Church my home, I am still staunchly catholic, all be it independent catholic.

Today, on this 41st anniversary of my baptism and my 31st anniversary of becoming Catholic, I had the honor of being interviewed on Dr. Joshua Black’s,Phd and Shawn Ram’s podcast Grief Dreams. The episode will be published at later date and I will keep you posted as to the details.

Dr. Black has just completed his PhD studies in grief dreams, dreams that occur after the death of a loved one or a beloved animal. His research looks at how these dreams aid in the grieving process.

Be sure and check out their podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. It is a great resource not only for those who are just beginning the grieving journey having recently lost a loved one to death, but also for helping keep the discussion going on grieving and dreaming about those who we’ve lost to death.

My father passed away over 41 years ago. I’ve had dreams about him off and on over the years. Having the opportunity to discuss these dreams and their meaning and significance to me was truly healing and affirming. I highly recommend their podcast.

During our discussion, Dr. Black asked me why so many pastors and religious leaders he’s spoken to about these dreams are quick to be leery of them and to assume that such dreams come from the devil or can’t be good for anyone?

My assumption is their concern over private revelation versus revelation that is meant for all.

I firmly believe, if such dreams of your loved ones are not violent, nor shocking and destructive but are peaceful and bring consolation and comfort to you, then they can only be one of the many ways God intervenes in our lives to bring Love, healing and consolation.

As is the case with anything pertaining to following God’s promptings, callings, inclinations within you in your journey, discernment is the key. Discernment involves spending time in solitude and prayer seeking God’s direction. It involves assessing how that direction makes you feel, does it bring peace and fulfillment? or worry? tension? and division? If it involves any of the last three or other experiences that are negative and lead you to isolation and loss of hope, then chances are highly likely they are not from God

If, on the other hand, you find peace and consolation and healing, then it is most likely from God. If it aids you in responding from the heart and not solely the head — the intellect — then it is most likely from God.

A good spiritual director or friend who can help you create a space to hearing the whispers God breathes upon your life is highly important. A good spiritual director can help you navigate the journey from the head to the heart where God’s call is planted within you.

May God continue to richly bless you along your journey.