A steam train would suggest that we feel ourselves to be somewhat outdated and old-fashioned but still viable, whereas an up-to-date electric turbo might suggest speed and efficiency. Catching the train shows we have been successful in having outside circumstances co-operate with us in achieving a particular goal, whereas missing the train indicates we do not have the resources to enable us to succeed in an appropriate way, either because we have forgotten something or because we have not been sufficiently careful. We fear that we will miss an opportunity. Equally, we may feel that external circumstances are imposing an element of control over us. Often dreams of missing a train and then catching either it or a later one, suggest that we are managing our inner resources better. Dreams of missing a train, alternating with those of catching one, show we are trying to sort out our motivations. Getting off the train before its destination or it has reached a station implies we are afraid of succeeding at a particular project. We do not appear to be in control. Getting off the train before it starts suggests that we have changed our mind about a situation in waking life. Railway lines and tracks will have significance as ways of getting us to our destination. Being conscious of the way the track runs ahead may give us an inkling as to what direction we are going. Recognizing the signals up ahead would have the same significance. Coming off the rails might suggest doing something inappropriate or of not being in control. Not wanting to be on the train might indicate we feel we are being unduly influenced by outside circumstances. Arriving at a station indicates we have completed a stage of our life journey. We may be ready for a new relationship with the world in general.
The carriages on a train suggest the various compartments or sections of our lives and the way we feel about them.
For example, if a carriage is untidy or dirty, we are aware that we need to ‘clean up’ an aspect of our lives. [1]
• Has your job taken over your life or the needs of a partner or parent? Are you going off the rails or are you on track for success? • Missing a train signifies missed opportunities.
A stuck train suggests a problem needs to be sorted before further progress can be made. [2]