My whole life I have had vivid dreams where I knew that I was dreaming and I could change them if I didn't like what was happening. I have never had a nightmare in my life because if things bothered me I just changed them or told myself to wake up. I thought it was like that for everyone most of my life. I don't tend to change or control my dreams unless I don't like what is happening, but I always know I am dreaming. It was very interesting to learn that this is not what happens to everyone!