Looking for a Sign

When someone we love dies, we often look for comfort in the chaos. Many people have reported experiencing unusual, symbolic or spiritual ‘signs’ in the days, weeks and months following a death. 

Whether it is a whisper of wind in a still room, a bird behaving strangely or a sudden power cut at a meaningful moment, these events can bring comfort in the form of a message from the person you have lost. Sceptics might say they are coincidences, but for those who are grieving, they can be powerful moments of connection, reassurance and peace. 

In this article, we will share some remarkable stories, including one of our own, about these signs. Signs can reflect the person’s personality, passions or favourite animal and the significance lies in what these signs mean to the person experiencing them. People have seen feathers appear where there were none before, heard songs play at the perfect moment, or even smelled familiar scents linked to someone who’s passed.

The bird at Mike Peters’ funeral

On 30 May 2025, thousands of people gathered in person and online to say farewell to Mike Peters, iconic frontman of The Alarm. The service took place at the Parish Church of St Bridget and St Cwyfan in Dyserth, with thousands of fans tuning in via livestream and crowds watching on a big screen outside.

Midway through the funeral, a bird flew into the church and calmly perched on one of Mike’s guitars. The bird, thought to be a Dipper, remained still for 30 minutes as heartfelt tributes and music filled the church. It departed just after Dafydd Iwan finished his powerful rendition of Yma o Hyd; a patriotic Welsh anthem about resilience and survival. To those watching, it provided a symbolic, soulful and entirely unforgettable presence.

The butterfly after Shawna Peter’s funeral

In December 2023, after the funeral of Tristan’s beloved grandma, Shawna Peters, something equally poignant happened. During the evening the family gathered at Number 25 Bar & Bistro, Rhos on Sea for a meal and to continue sharing their memories of her. While talking, a Red Admiral butterfly appeared and landed just behind the family. Anyone familiar with North Wales in December will know that it isn’t butterfly weather. And yet, there it was, delicate and determined, fluttering gently through the space.

Even more remarkable was that another Red Admiral butterfly was found resting on the dining room floor at Tristan’s home in Llanrhos the next morning. In the heart of winter, amidst deep grief, these small visitors bring a sense of comfort that words sometimes can’t capture.

Have you experienced a Sign?

If you’ve ever experienced something unusual after someone you cared about has died; a dream, a symbol or a feeling, we’d love to hear about it. Sharing these stories helps others feel less alone and more connected in their grief. Sometimes the smallest moment can be the biggest source of comfort; and reminds us that love never really leaves.