Wow. Thank you. I have been studying Buddhism lately myself. I am literally just now (yesterday and today) starting to understand and contemplate the things you mentioned. I like to think of these kinds of "coincidences" as a type of "synchronicity". Sort of like a confirmation that I am on the right path at the moment.

I am not planning to convert completely to Buddhism but I have been thinking of how I can adapt the thinking of Buddhism to answer the problems I have with Christianity. I plan to read this book soon. Amazon.com: Without Buddha I Could not be a Christian (9781851686735): Paul F. Knitter: Books A few nights ago I had a NLD. I was in a church that had been completely gutted and was in various stages of renovation. There are very few dreams that I understand the interpretation to but this one was apparent.

As for the insomnia maybe your WBTB was too long? Once in a while I will have issues going back to sleep regardless of aids. I am not sure what the issue is myself.

I think we all struggle with the mind monkey. Some days are better than others. I have noticed how lucid living and daily awareness and mindfulness does indeed quiet the monkey. I suppose all lucid dream practice Buddhism to a certain extent.