Janine,
It sounds like your dream about preparing for a conference reflects feelings of anxiety about control and the pressure of deadlines. The struggle with visibility, as you can't see your computer well, might symbolize a sense that your vision or understanding in some area of your life is obscured. The crowded office and the presence of David could be expressing a sense of intrusion or lack of personal space, perhaps feeling overwhelmed by expectations or responsibilities.
The chaos of everything going wrong, from the wild poster design to the doctors unplugging equipment, suggests a fear of disorganization and disruption. This could be tied to an inner conflict between wanting to maintain order and the reality of unpredictable elements in life. Ana giving voice lessons in the office might represent an awareness of other talents or aspects of life that are seeking your attention amidst the pressures you're facing.
Reflecting on your previous dreams, there seems to be a recurring theme of transition and the challenge of handling multiple tasks or navigating changes, such as saying goodbye to Chela and dealing with the grain bin in one dream, or the packing up at Bobbi's in another. These scenarios, alongside the current dream, may point to an underlying concern with managing the end of one chapter and the beginning of another, especially considering your recent retirement from teaching medical sociology. This significant life change can bring about a mix of emotions and a sense of upheaval, as you adjust to a new rhythm and identity beyond your professional role.
This dream, while not a nightmare, still held negative feelings for you, which could be a reflection of the stress associated with adapting to retirement. The loss of structure and the need to redefine your purpose can often lead to feelings of disorientation, much like the malfunctioning poster printer and unplugged office equipment in your dream. It is not uncommon to seek clarity and simplicity during such times, as indicated by your desire for a simple poster amidst the chaos.
Remember, Janine, dreams often serve as a mirror to our subconscious, providing insight into our deepest thoughts and emotions. Your dream seems to be processing the changes and challenges you're facing, highlighting the importance of patience and self-compassion as you navigate this new phase in your life.