in the dream i was sitting in an unfamilar living room with my step-father who passed away back in 2016. He was very happily playing a simple game on a handheld device I didn't recognize but, i could see the character was the cartoon Popeye and he was collecting old cars. No matter what I would say he remained engrossed in the game and kept explaining the concept and how much he enjoyed it.
Dreams involving deceased loved ones can often be reflective of our emotional connections and unresolved feelings. Here are a few interpretations of your dream:
Connection and Remembrance: Your step-father's presence in your dream may signify a desire to reconnect or remember him. The happy demeanor and engagement in the game suggest that you still hold fond memories of him and perhaps long for the joy he brought to your life.
Playfulness and Joy: The game involving Popeye and collecting old cars may symbolize a simpler, joyful aspect of life. It could indicate a need for fun and lightheartedness in your waking life or an encouragement to embrace playful moments, like how your step-father seemed to enjoy the game.
Unfinished Business: If there were unresolved feelings, conversations, or concerns related to your step-father before he passed, this dream may represent your mind's way of processing those sentiments. The fact that he remains engrossed and doesn't fully engage with you might reflect feelings of longing for more time or conversations that you wish you had.
Symbolism of the Game: The handheld game can represent control or escape. It might suggest that your step-father found ways to cope with life’s challenges (like collecting cars in the game) or that you feel the need to figure out how to navigate certain aspects of your own life.
Grief Processing: Dreams like this can also be a part of the grieving process. They can act as a way for your subconscious to work through the stages of grief, remembering your step-father in a joyful context rather than focusing on loss.
Consider how you felt during and after the dream; those feelings can be important indicators of its meaning for you. Reflecting on your current life circumstances, especially any recent changes or challenges, might also provide further insight into its significance.