Scorpioeyes, that makes sense. I smoked for 7-8 yrs and stopped for the past 7-8. It is hard to be open because sometimes substances that we rely on become a doorway to be ourselves. Isn't that peculiar. We are not attentive to our inhibitions. I was just discussing this yesterday with a friend. My ex-wife smoked once and her remark was that it opened her up so much she realized many negative things about herself and was able to let down the walls she had built up. The thing is once the smoke dies down it's usually back to same fears, same wall is built. So the key is ripping down the foundation completely while sober. This is like a death to self and rebuilding with a stronger more permanent foundation. I am going through the same thing in relationships with everyone that is another reason why these forums are cool because hopefully it will encourage you to be open with others and self and foster new growth without the need of protective fences..
I meant to look up your other dream and see any connections I will do that later.