Some absences feel so big that they seem to fill every corner of our lives. Yet, at the same time, there are those small, unexpected moments — a familiar scent, a song that starts playing at the perfect moment, or a sudden shiver — that make us feel as if love hasn’t really disappeared. Many grieving people describe these experiences as gentle “winks” from someone they’ve lost.
Without claiming any absolute truth, here are some of the most commonly mentioned signs — and more importantly, some gentle ways to welcome them without fear.
The “Little Coincidences” That Feel Too Perfect
Sometimes you find a feather on your path, a coin in an unusual place, or you keep noticing a particular name again and again. On the surface, these may have simple explanations. But when they appear right when you were thinking about your loved one, they often feel like a small message — a quiet reminder that love continues in small ways.
“Small coincidences often arrive at the exact moment we need comfort the most.”
Tip: Write down the date and situation on your phone — where you were, what you were thinking about, and what you felt. When you look back later, these small notes can reveal a comforting sense of connection.
Scent: The Unexpected Memory
One of the most common experiences people describe is catching a scent linked to the person who passed away — a perfume, a soap, a dish they used to cook. Just one breath can bring back their memory so vividly that it feels as if someone opened a door to the past.
Smell is strongly tied to memory, so it’s natural to experience this. Whether you see it as something spiritual or simply your mind remembering, the effect is the same: a sudden, powerful reminder that can bring comfort during grief.
“A familiar scent can feel like a doorway to a moment shared with someone we’ve lost.”
Dreams That Feel Like Real Encounters
Some dreams feel incredibly real, almost like a true meeting. These dreams are often peaceful — not confusing or strange — and many people wake up feeling calmer and comforted.
A gentle practice: After waking, write down a sentence or image from the dream. Not to analyze it, but to appreciate the moment of peace it brought you.
“Some dreams feel less like imagination and more like a gentle reunion.”
When Your Body Reacts: Chills, Goosebumps, or Sudden Calm
A brief shiver, goosebumps without cold air, or an unexpected wave of calm can feel like a presence nearby. Others see it as the body responding to emotion rising from within. Both interpretations can exist together — sometimes our bodies express what the heart cannot say directly.
If these moments make you uneasy, stay grounded: breathe slowly, drink some water, or focus on your surroundings. The goal isn’t to push the feeling away, but to stay safe and centered.
When Devices Act Up or a Meaningful Song Plays
Lights flickering, a radio turning on, or a song with deep meaning suddenly playing are common stories in grief. Technology can behave unpredictably, yes — but sometimes the timing feels too meaningful to ignore.
Here’s what matters: if the moment comforts you, let it be a sign of love. If it makes you uncomfortable, remember you can set emotional boundaries — even with experiences like these.
Animals and Their Subtle Sensitivity
Animals often pick up on changes we can’t see — slight sounds, scents, or shifts in routine. A cat staring at a corner, or a dog suddenly becoming extra affectionate, may simply mean they sense something different in your mood or environment.
Still, their presence can feel healing. If your pet comes close to you during a heavy moment, see it as an invitation to slow down and let yourself breathe.
What If the Real “Sign” Is What Brings You Comfort?
In the end, the most important thing isn’t proving whether these signs are real. What matters is how they make you feel. If they offer comfort, stability, or a sense of connection, then they play a meaningful role in your healing.
However, if these experiences become overwhelming or leave you anxious, don’t hesitate to talk to a professional. Grief is a journey, and no one is meant to walk it alone.
Sometimes love doesn’t speak loudly — it shows up quietly, in the small details of life, reminding you gently that you are not alone.
