Hi Nikki,
Spiritual happenings of this sort have a way of making us scratch our heads and even doubt if we saw, heard or felt anything at all. But in most instances we are spot on and our intuition usually doesn't let us down. You did not mention any negative feelings you felt upon seeing both the orb and the strange figure so I am thinking it may have been something in response to your prayer since you had just prayed with your heart and soul. Sometimes "Divine Personages" can be so bright that we cannot view them in their true form and light, for instance a TA, whom one most often never "sees" cannot be viewed in their "pure light form" with our human eyes so they cover their light on the rare occasion they show Themselves, making them seem more as a dark spot. George was allowed to view his son's TA before he was born. And it looked much as you described like a dark orb. George said to Bzutu, who happened to be there at the time, " I don't like these black things in my house." As this little dark spot turned in mid air from looking at him to look at his wife, It then said, "If I showed you my true colours you would now be blind."
George believes that the TA came and showed itself to him, in conjunction with what he was thinking about at the time...
Sooooo...I am also thinking in your case She (your TA) allowed you to see Her in conjunction with your own heartfelt prayers and thoughts on this life path you are contemplating. I am struck by the timing and the reminder (for me at least

) that we have this very special "Guidance," this awesome loving Particle of God, with us in all times and for all times. This has given me a bit of a boost on a dreary day and I hope that as you think about it and pray about it you feel comforted and cherished by this happening as well.
The figure you saw too... it sounded as if felt no animosity from it either, even thinking in it's polite way that it was your Mom. I doubt that a "packet" or anything negative would have been so considerate. It could have been a Midwayer, but just in case surround yourself with Brilliant Divine Light when you pray and meditate, asking that only beings with your very best interest at heart be allowed close by.
You, however, are your best determiner... Journal this incident writing down all you remember and how you feel... Just chatter away about it and be sure to write whatever thoughts and feelings come up. Hopefully this will give you some guidance and direction in all that you desire.
I add my prayers too for you as you stand before this fork in your life's road.
((((((((HUGS)))))))) and lotsa love from me to you,
xxSandy