Years ago I was consumed with grief, when I lost someone very close. I remember crying in the middle of night and praying that God would help ease the pain. Suddenly I felt a warm embrace and was hugged - as real as real could be. I had an immediate sense of peace that helped me through the rough days that followed. I believe in a spiritual world and like to think someone cared enough to give me physical sign of their love. A guardian angle? Perhaps. I like to think so.
I've never encountered a spirit...but was always fascinated by stories that my relatives would tell. I'm really enjoying this thread!