I'm in an abandoned shopping centre with lots of other people including my family, at one end there are dinosaurs locked behind 3 shutters, we have to go through the sutters to get food when it's safe, one day we were getting ready to go when the dinosaurs broke through the shutters one at a time, we all had to hide in various places, I couldn't see most of my family but my youngest son was with me and we were hiding with alot of other kids behind a counter. the dinosaurs roamed around roaring I was trying to keep the children quiet and safe.
Dreams like the one you described can be rich and layered, often reflecting deep-seated feelings, fears, or concerns. Let's break down some of the elements of your dream:
Abandoned Shopping Centre: This setting may symbolize a place that was once full of life, activity, and resources but is now deserted and empty. It could represent feelings of alienation, loss, or a fear of change. Alternatively, it might be a metaphor for an aspect of your life that you feel has become stagnant or lacks the vibrancy it once had.
Dinosaurs Behind Shutters: Dinosaurs often symbolize something massive, powerful, and from the past that is looming or threatening. The fact that they are behind shutters indicates that you have contained or controlled these feelings or situations, but they are always present in the background. This might reflect an unresolved issue from the past or a fear that feels overwhelming.
Need to Get Food: This part of the dream symbolizes a basic survival instinct. Food often represents nourishment, not just physically, but emotionally and mentally. This could indicate a situation in which you are trying to gather resources or emotions necessary for your well-being under stressful conditions.
Escape and Hiding with Children: The act of hiding, especially with your youngest son and other children, suggests a protective instinct. Children often represent innocence and vulnerability. This part of your dream may reflect your desire to protect and shelter those you care about, particularly the more vulnerable.
Separated Family: The separation from most of your family could symbolize feelings of disconnection or a sense that you don't know how to reach or protect all of those you care about. It might also represent a fear of not being able to reunite with loved ones during times of crisis.
Roaring Dinosaurs: The roaring of the dinosaurs intensifies the threat and reflects loud, persistent fears or challenges that demand attention. Roaring is also a method of asserting dominance or communicating distress, perhaps akin to a problem in your life that's demanding attention or resolution.
Keeping Children Quiet and Safe: This points to the stress you're under to maintain calm and control in precarious or threatening situations. It's indicative of your responsibility and duty to maintain peace and ensure safety for those who depend on you.
Overall, your dream suggests that you may be experiencing a period of change, fear, or stress. There might be issues from the past that seem large and formidable, perhaps even threatening your current stability or peace. Coupled with your protective instincts revealed by the dream, it might be time to consider how you could address these issues and whether you are feeling supported by the loved ones in your life.
It might be helpful to reflect on specific areas where you feel you might be 'hiding.' Consider speaking to a confidante or professional about any overwhelming situations you're facing, ensuring you're also taking care of your own needs.