Refugees In Dreams Can Imply A Need To Regroup, Says Dream Analyst David Rivinus

Dreams often use images from current events to send symbolic messages. This is according to dream analyst David Rivinus. “While some dreams certainly communicate with symbolic images that are unexpected,” he explains, “the majority make use of images that are fresh in the dreamer’s awareness.” Images taken from television, movies or computer clips are common. “Especially if the images are repeated on the screen, like those seen during an ongoing international crisis, dreams will often pick those images to convey their own meanings.” The frequent, recent images of refugees are a good example. 

When upsetting images are used in dreams, it is important not to take the symbols literally, he adds. “Just because you dream that you are fleeing from a devastating, violent conflict, it does not mean that war is imminent in your neighborhood.” Rivinus, who is the author of the book “Always Dreaming” from Ozark Mountain Publishing, says that one should look at the dream image as a symbol, a metaphor for another concept. “Refugees are people who are trying to avoid being caught dangerously in the middle of a fight,” he says. “If you dream of being a refugee, look at the conflicts that are going on in your own life at the moment.” According to Rivinus, a good question to ask is: Do you feel beleaguered or unfairly singled out and pursued in any of your life’s activities. 

Rivinus says that dreams of refugees could imply a need to regroup and recover. “Everyone’s symbols are their own and it is important not to make blanket assumptions.” But he adds that he would begin by exploring whether the dreamer is feeling harassed. “The conflict might not be overly serious,” he explains. It might only be that the dreamer needs a break, like a vacation. 

Conversely, such a dream might imply a situation of growing hostility where a confrontation is imminent, or has already occurred. “When powerful symbols appear in our dreams, it’s important to examine them because they may be warning us of important issues in our lives that need our attention.” 

David Rivinus is a dream analyst with over three decades of international experience. He teaches, offers dream workshops and does individual dream interpretation sessions. For more information, visit www.teacherofdreams.com.

 One can also find his book “Always Dreaming” on Amazon by clicking here.