#16078
I don't believe in an after-life either. I'm not religious and I don't believe in a higher power or heaven or hell or spirits.
I did what I had to do to heal. I asked him to come to me for years as a child, at least 12. It doesn't matter to me if it was really him. In my mind, him just being there in my dream was peace enough for me. Our conversation, though it was trivial, was enough for me to say goodbye. Maybe not to him exactly, but to all the tortured thoughts I had relating to him. It was peace for me. I don't believe he's shining down on me or that I can talk to him or that he hears me. I did what I had to do to heal myself and I'm satisfied with that.
Maybe because I was a child, I was more open-minded, I don't know really.
I hope you find similar, if not nicer, peace. And don't beat yourself up over something that is now out of your hands. We all get busy and put off contact with loved ones. My mom is constatly harping on me about never coming to see her. Family love is special and he knew you loved him. Family love is unconditional and forever. Be at peace just knowing you had a brother that you loved and has moments with. No one, not even death can take your memories away from you.
Best wishes.