Girl, you are SO on the right track. Keep going and keep believing!

From a Jungian standpoint (from my I admit limited knowledge) I think your follow up on the first dream was on the right track.  That is what the dream spoke to me, the dark 'basement' is a powerful image of the repressed / supressed psychological material of the subconscious.  ie the stuff we deny about ourselves.  I don't see that descent as a negative thing, but a difficult thing, which is why we are afraid.  It is the negative aspects of ourselves that our egos try so hard to keep us from admitting.

The kiss from Richard I see as a blessing of encouragement to descend into yourSelf.  To go down those stairs, all be it slowly.  I don't see this as a diversion from your spiritual journey, I see it as a step in your spiritual journey.

Best of luck,
Rook

Awesome Rook! You are a gifted interpretor and thanks for the encouragement! Blessings and light!