SUPERSTITION AMONG AMERICANS

Despite being scientifically and technologically one of the most advanced societies in the world Americans too succumb to superstitions. Some researchers have surveyed over 2000 people and found that 40% of them consider themselves superstitious.

As in many parts of the world black cats considered to have bring bad luck by crossing the road in front of you. If a black cat showed up in their path many would return home.

Knocking on woods is another thing. Something harder and harder to do in a modern home is practised by over 32% people. According to Pagan traditions  many believed that helpful spirits are resided in certain trees. When we touch that tree we are asking for protection from those spirits. Mediaeval churches would often kept wood claimed to be from the Cross itself. By touching the wood, churchgoers would believe that they made out a link to the divine and they would have good luck.

Bad news comes in threes, don't walk under a ladder, don't break a mirror, the number 666, don't open an umbrella indoors, seven is a lucky number, Friday the 13th, 13 is unlucky, throw salt over left shoulder etc are the other superstitious concepts.

A found penny is a lucky penny that too when its head up. The children's rhyme goes like this, "Find a penny, pick it up. All day long you'll have good luck."

KV George

kvgeorgein@gmail.com