Is It Common for People to Talk About Seeing Things Due to Missing a Loved One?

It's a phenomenon as old as human memory: people talking about seeing their loved ones after death. The question often arises, Is it common for people to talk about seeing things because they miss their departed loved ones, even if there are no actual ghosts present in those situations? The answer might surprise you, as the experiences can range from the profound to the more mundane.

Experiences after Bereavement

Personally, I have been widowed twice. In both cases, my experiences varied greatly. One spouse was a ‘really bad man’ while the other was a ‘really good man’. Despite these stark differences, there were no instances where I or my loved ones reported seeing or feeling the presence of ghosts or spirits. This doesn’t mean such experiences aren’t common; it simply means they were not part of my experience or ours. For many people, the transition and grief associated with losing a loved one can manifest in a range of ways, including seeing, hearing, or feeling the presence of their departed loved ones.

The Role of Bereavement and the Mind

Those experiencing extreme grief are known to report such phenomena. The mind can conjure up images, sounds, or even the scent of the departed loved one as a means of coping and accepting the loss of a dear person. This doesn't make these experiences any less real or impactful to the individuals experiencing them. It's a natural psychological response to a profound loss.

Common Encounters

According to the New York State Ghost Census conducted in the 1920s to 1940s, the most common contact between a grandparent and a grandchild was a comforting message to reassure the child that everything is alright and that they shouldn’t be upset. Among adult contacts, the most common experience is receiving a symbolic or meaningful sign. Let’s explore some examples of these phenomena:

Butterflies appearing in the dining room on Thanksgiving Dragonflies in a locked car Flowers blooming out of season Birds appearing at a window A special song playing on a radio or sound system at a significant time Special objects appearing unexpectedly, like on the bed you just made

The most common of these phenomena include birds, dragonflies, butterflies, and flowers. These encounters are often more of a comforting presence than anything frightening or malevolent.

A Personal Encounter

In my personal experience, after my mother passed away, about a month later, I had a visit from her. It felt as if she were here with me, looking peaceful. She would only come to me when I had a heavy burden that troubled me, providing comfort and support. This encounter wasn’t typical, but it highlights the individual nature of such experiences. Her presence felt like a reassuring sign that everything was going to be okay, even though she was gone.

These experiences, though varied and personal, can be deeply meaningful and impactful. If you or someone you know is experiencing such phenomena, it’s crucial to remember that these are often part of the natural process of grieving and accepting a loved one’s passing. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, these experiences are a significant part of many people's journeys through bereavement.