My father passed away in December 2010 after months with lung cancer. When he was sick in the hospital in Florida my brother and I would fly back and forth taking care of mom's needs and seeing dad as much as we can. The last time I left the hospital I kissed him goodbye and watched him as I walked out thinking it could be the last time I see him. He did pass away about two weeks after that.
Immediately after that mom got lung cancer and was receiving treatment. I would often wonder if dad was ok since he passed without family around him (he was taken to the Hospice Ward in the hospital) Months passed and it would still bother me until one night I had a dream. He came to me in an old 50's setting. He was wearing his Marine uniform and looked so young. Smoking his cigarette and leaning on a counter of what seemed to be an old gas station office he said to me, "I just want you to know I'm ok," I burst "ok" crying and told him I was so glad he came back and told him to stop smoking. I was so hysterical crying out of joy he came back.
Mom passed away a year and a half later from lung cancer, my brother and I took turns tending to her until she passed away. The worst part of it all was the bitterness that came between my brother and I due to the estate which all was to be a 50/50 deal. It was like a divorce to say the least.
It's now been over for a few weeks and the other day as I was walking into my bedroom after having my morning coffee and morning computer I saw my dad's wedding band on the floor at the foot of my bed. I picked it up and thought, "Geee that's weird" and proceeded to put it into the velvet slotted drawer in the jewelry box atop of my husband's armoire. Much to my surprise all my rings and my mom's were all messy and not in their slots but were all accounted for. I fixed them back into place along with dad's ring but was a wreck the entire day.
Do you think this was a sign from him? I do believe it was.
Sounds as if your Father visited you in your dreams. Had you 'projected yourself' (OBE/Astral Project) you 'more than likely' would have awoken tired... Relieved but tired. However you stated you woke up...
"I was very upset in the dream, but when I woke I was happy and relieved, it put me at rest in my worries about dad. I have not worried since."
It means he 'came to you' and eased your mind.
Our minds are more open to being visited by spirits, and it is easier (takes less energy) in our dreams.
As far as the ring goes... Sounds like your Father is just letting you know he is still around.
Respectfully,
Rook