I rarely remember my dreams. I suspect this is because I seldom linger in deep sleep. Recently, however, an exception has awoken me four mornings in a row: a vivid dream. I cannot help but wonder if this variance is meant to send me a message. The fact that the dream is identical, from occurrence to color, is even more curious, as if my subconscious wanted to leave no room for misremembering. What follows is the dream.

I recall smiling as I walked toward a chain-link fence. On the other side of the fence was a field of haystacks underneath a brilliant, sunny sky. As I neared, I reached down to gather the hem of my white eyelet dress to climb over the fence. I wanted to hoist myself on top of a particular haystack that drew my attention because it cast no shadow and was brighter than the others. This haystack reminded me of a yellow satin pillow beckoning me to rest.

For a moment, I focused on the fence. It was rusted, rough, and thorny. While my eyes searched for a safe place to climb, I felt a rush behind me that I could only describe as a dark, tunneled force. Blackness covered me like a hood. I heard a struggle from all sides, above and below me. I shivered, cold and frightened. As quickly as the hood covered me, it was removed.

I felt no hands upon me. I saw nothing but wind swirling and the sifting of a sequence of colors I had never seen before. I heard my breath leave my lungs as my sandals slipped from my feet, and I was lifted and thrown into the fence. I remained pinned upon the galvanized steel thorns; blood pooled into my eyes and fell down my face like tears. Although I could not see, I felt the darkness retreat in haste, leaving the way it came. I heard it scream as it fled. Then I heard my screams.

A litheness shaped itself around me, soothing me, gently pulling me away from the fence and tucking me into winged arms. Again, I was lifted, but this time over the fence and across the field. I was placed gently upon the haystack that cast no shadow. My eyes cleared. I looked upon my white dress, noticing it had no evidence of a stain or rip — not even a wrinkle. My feet and face warmed in the sunlight as I rested. My smile returned. My palms felt the yellow hay — each strand as soft and smooth as silk. I stood upon the haystack, stretching my arms to the sky. I laughed, cried tears of joy, and twirled.

This dream reoccurred four times before it left me. On its final morning, I awakened with my silk pillowcase removed from my pillow, wrapped over my shoulders like a shawl.

That evening, I went to a dance recital at a nearby school. The recital showcased a wide variety of dances as well as dancers. I have always loved the elegance of ballet, so I was immediately drawn to a group of young children who appeared on stage for their ballet performance. I noted their brilliant yellow costume — satiny gloves, bodice, and matching tutu. It was not until the group formed a tight circle that my heart began to race, and my mind delved into my dream. From the blur of the bright stage lights, sitting in a dark theatre, my eyes created a familiar view: a yellow satin pillow beckoning me to rest under a brilliant, sunny sky.

The little children separated and scattered like stars, filling the stage with light. As they danced, I closed my eyes and twirled in my imagination, finding myself once again standing on top of the haystack that cast no shadow. I opened my eyes to see the end of the little ballerinas’ performance. I cheered and applauded alongside friends and strangers.

I thought about these young girls long after the recital ended. They may have been nervous, even afraid, but they danced their part. They danced until the song ended.

I desire to live in such a way that my best is given daily to living out the purpose God has put before me — to dance my part until the song ends. No matter what darkness attempts to blind me, I know “…the angel of the LORD is a guard; he surrounds and defends all who fear him” (Psalm 34:7). “Fear” in this context means to be in reverent awe of God, submitting to Him, praising Him for our salvation, grace, and unconditional love.

Even in a dark world, we can praise God and rest in His character and promises. We can tuck ourselves into the shelter of His Word and wisdom, finding refuge from the chaos, knowing He alone is our truest source of peace and protection.

“He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection” (Psalm 91:4).

May we go forth today and in the days that follow, living into our purpose with the intention to glorify Him — every note, high or low — until our song on Earth ends and we celebrate together as children of God in Heaven. Until then, my friend, dance where God leads you.

Tiffany Kaye Chartier is a Christian author and opinion columnist. Submit feedback and connect for more soul lifts on Facebook: Tiffany Kaye Chartier; Instagram:@tiffanysgly; and Twitter: @ tiffanychartier. The views and opinions expressed here are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Bryan County News.