Train

A 'Train' in a dream represents an organization. In the Universal Language of the Mind, any large vehicle that carries many people toward a common destination represents an organization -- a group of aspects (people) moving together with shared purpose. A bus, a ship, an airplane, and a train all carry this meaning. However, each type of vehicle adds its own unique characteristics to the interpretation. A train is unique in several important ways. First, it follows tracks -- a fixed, predetermined path that was laid down before the train began moving. The train cannot deviate from this path. It goes where the tracks lead and nowhere else. This reflects an organization with deeply established systems, procedures, and direction -- one that follows a predetermined route rather than charting its course dynamically. Second, a train has tremendous momentum. Once a train is moving at full speed, it is extremely difficult to stop. This reflects the powerful momentum that organizations build -- for better or worse. An organization moving in the right direction with full momentum is a force of incredible productivity. An organization moving in the wrong direction with full momentum is a force of incredible destruction, and redirecting it is enormously difficult. Third, a train is comprised of many connected cars, each carrying its own passengers and cargo. This reflects the different departments, divisions, or groups within an organization -- all connected, all moving together, but each carrying its own specific content and purpose.

Pay attention to the condition and behavior of the train. Is it running on schedule and at full speed, reflecting a well-functioning organization with strong momentum and clear direction? Is it delayed or stalled, indicating that the organization has lost its momentum? Is it derailed, suggesting that the organization has gone off course entirely? Are you on the train, or are you watching it pass? Being on the train means you are part of the organization. Watching it pass means you are observing it from the outside. When a train shows up in your dream, assess the organizations in your life -- your workplace, your community, your spiritual practice group, your family structure. Are they on the right track? Is their momentum carrying you toward your goals, or away from them? Do the tracks lead where you want to go? Remember, you can always choose to get on a different train -- or to step off the tracks entirely and forge your own path.