Horrid nightmare of being hoarded by monsters

[mateo45]

^ ^ Understood, and I do have some appreciation for both Hinduism and East Indian culture. Though not to overstate the obvious, but you and your family no longer live in the 'motherland', and now live in a very different culture, that's also much more attuned to individualism (among other things). So this issue is simply the beginning of a much larger question that'll recur throughout your life here, namely at what point will you ever become an "American" (and find yourself), instead of feeling perpetually trapped between these two cultures? In short, what do you want?

And BTW, doesn't Hinduism place the very highest priority on being true to yourself, aka your Atman?

[Adi from the Brunswicks]

Originally Posted by mateo45

And BTW, doesn't Hinduism place the very highest priority on being true to yourself, aka your Atman?

Yes, prayers offer confidence for one to proceed along the correct path and help god understand your recognition towards his actions. Understanding that the supreme being is recognizing and supporting you throughout life is an important part of being true to oneself. That's why I should be chanting my prayers on a regular basis. Failure to do so results in a weaker soul which can easily be infected by fear. Hinduism believes fear within ones body is what weakens and slowly destroys the soul.

[mateo45]

Vishnu's Virtues: Great Expectations & High Pressure: How You Can Survive Indian, Pakistani, Chinese, Middle Eastern Cultures (And Parents)

[Mussakka]

Without knowing even more personal details (which I strongly advise not posting here), I would suggest your dream was influenced by the issues of controlling religious conformity (hence the Druids), fear of your life being consumed by the arranged marriage (the snakes, who likely also represent family members), coupled with the uncertainty of moving and (possibly subconscious) concern over success in graduate school. I think your hiding from windows likely implies a fear or concern over others seeing your inner conflict (living your life versus accepting cultural/religious expectations).

However, dreams tap into such a deep part of us and function on such a psychologically representative level, the dream could mean you were simply constipated. (joking here).d