Castle in My Dreams

Castle as part of Fantasy World theme park in Batangas, Philippines

As I traversed the realms of sleep, I found myself immersed in a vivid dream that wove together a tapestry of curiosity and wonder. It began with me journeying along a familiar path, heading back to the place I call home. However, to my astonishment, a magnificent castle suddenly materialized before my eyes. Its grandeur mirrored that of the enchanting theme park nestled in Batangas, evoking a sense of awe within me. The castle stood tall and proud, its intricate architecture capturing the essence of a bygone era. The dreamlike atmosphere transported me to a realm where imagination and reality seamlessly intertwined. 

Approaching the castle, I was greeted with a warm smile by a figure dressed in royal attire, embodying the role of a jolly king. With his silver hair and robust figure, he bore a striking resemblance to King Henry VIII, yet his demeanour exuded an infectious joviality. The castle's interior, visible from the grand lobby, was adorned with opulent treasures from various eras, transporting me to times long past. Each artefact whispered stories of its own, capturing my imagination and fueling my desire to unearth more antiquities hidden within the castle's hallowed halls.

My insatiable curiosity led me further into this magical world, each step bringing me closer to unravelling the secrets that lay beyond. Yet, as I cast my gaze around, I realized that gaining entry into this realm of wonders required a humble fee. Undeterred, an idea sprouted within me, inspired by the desire to share this extraordinary experience with my younger cousins. I envisioned embarking on a grand tour of the castle, their eyes filled with awe and excitement mirroring my own. Together, we would revel in the enigmatic allure of this dreamlike place, discovering its hidden treasures while forging lasting memories.

Alas, my slumber was abruptly interrupted, and I reluctantly awakened to find darkness still enveloping the world outside my window. Anxious that the intricate details of my dream would fade into the nebulous realm of forgetfulness, I swiftly reached for a notepad, determined to capture the fragments of my nocturnal reverie before they vanished completely. As I scribbled down the vivid images and sensations that lingered in my mind, I couldn't help but long for the chance to return to that ethereal realm once more. The tantalizing taste of adventure and the promise of unforgettable experiences beckoned me, leaving me yearning for another night's slumber to transport me back to that enigmatic allure. 

As the hours slipped by, the golden rays of daylight permeated my room, chasing away the remnants of the night. Absentmindedly scrolling through TikTok, my attention was abruptly seized by a news article that beckoned me to delve deeper. It chronicled the poignant tale of Donald Gray Triplett, the first person ever diagnosed with Autism, who had recently departed from this world at the age of 89. A surge of contemplation coursed through me as I pondered the connection between his passing and the dream I had just experienced. Could the jolly king in my ethereal castle have symbolized Donald Triplett himself? Although it remained mere speculation, the timing of events struck me as uncanny, stirring an inexplicable resonance within my soul.

In the wake of Donald's passing, I couldn't help but immerse myself in reflection. His life had left an indelible mark on our understanding of Autism, his contributions are significant and far-reaching. The boundaries between my dream and reality blurred, leaving me with lingering questions and a profound sense of connection to the world that extends beyond our waking hours. Dreams, in their mysterious essence, intertwine with the threads of our existence, revealing fragments of meaning and symbolism that transcend the confines of rationality.

Donald Triplett, the first person diagnosed
with Autism died on June 15th 2023

As I contemplated the tale spun by my slumber and the news of Donald's farewell, a sense of awe and mystery settled deep within me. The architecture of the castle, the warm smile of the jolly king, the hidden treasures that beckoned from within, and even the notion of an entrance fee—they all held a deeper significance, resonating with the narratives of our shared humanity. Our subconscious minds are intricately woven with the fabric of our waking lives, illuminating the interconnectedness that binds us all.

In the end, whether my dream bore a profound message or simply danced on the canvas of my imagination remained a mystery. Yet, the memory of that magnificent castle, the regal figure who welcomed me with open arms, and the burning desire to share the magic with loved ones persisted, transcending the ephemeral nature of dreams. For in those fleeting moments, I glimpsed a profound truth—that our nocturnal visions hold a mirror to our souls, inviting us to explore the depths of our being and uncover the hidden connections that bind us together in this grand tapestry of life.