Unlived Lives in Our Dreams

I'm close to the topic of lives I might have/could have/ should have lived. Maybe you are too more than you know.

One of the frequent comments I hear from some who have read Raymond's story, is that it makes them think, even occasionally dream, how different their own unlived lives might have been.

This isn't as ominous as it may seem. The dream isn't necessarily an indication that the person is unhappy with the life they do live. Case in point, me.

I've been out of the army for 54 years, out of Vietnam as a soldier for 56 years. I've since visited the country twice for extended periods of time, both enjoyable trips.

That's a lot of time to put that first year behind me. I have largely, but not completely done so, nor do I want to.

I occasionally dream I am living my post-army civilian life, working, raising a family, enjoying life. I receive word I have to go back to the war for another year. I don't question the absurdity of that happening, it just must be.

The specifics vary, but always involve me arriving back in Vietnam, being issued the gear I was the first time, and settling in as best I can for another 12 months.

I don't speculate why this dream happens. It does, even more so now having written Raymond's story. It is part of the life I do live that might never have happened had I not been there so long ago.

A year resulting in so many events, decisions, and non decisions creating so many lives I might have lived, both good and bad.

Nothing wrong with that for me, nor for you. Your dreams are part of the life you do lead as well as your unlived lives.

Follow your dreams, they have much to teach you.