Superstitions or Just Old Wives Tales

It is a reasonably safe bet, if we are honest with ourselves, that we have all been guilty of some kind of superstitious act at some time in our lives. It begs the question: is this behaviour based on a logic, or are they simply old wives tales, that for some reason we choose to believe and as a consequence, causes us to conduct ourselves In a totally irrational manner? Indeed, many superstitions seem foolish, some even bordering on the ridiculous; but if they bring good fortune they will undoubtedly continue to be influential. In many cases, superstitions can be traced back to Medieval or even Ancient times. There are numerous good and bad luck superstitions, but in truth the majority are just old wives tales. In fact if people were to be asked why they carry out some little peculiarity, they would probably reflect that it is something they have always done; often as a result of their parents, or grandparents putting the notion into their minds at an early age.

One superstition where there does seem to be some credence centres around that of Friday the thirteenth. Christ was said to have been crucified on a Friday and the number of guests at the party of the Last Supper was 13, with the 13th guest being Judas, the traitor! Many of the others popular superstitions however, surely have to fall into the category of old wives tales. Such as: getting out of bed the same side you got in, otherwise you bring bad luck upon yourself! If a bird flies into your home then it is a symbol of death. Never take a broom with you when moving house, always buy a new one - it'll come in handy when trying to shoo the bird of death out! Chimney sweeps are regarded as very lucky, so if you see one shake his hand so that some of the luck rubs off onto you. If you find a four leaf clover, pick it up and keep it safe, it should bring you great fortune! Breaking a mirror means seven years bad luck and it is extremely unlucky to open an umbrella indoors. Flowers are frowned upon onboard a ship, as they could later be used to make a wreath for the dead.

Whilst women on board a ship make the sea angry and can lead to it sinking, but a naked woman on board will calm the sea - this is the reason for naked figureheads. There are many more, and if truth be told, lots will be exclusive to an individual and his or her family; or to a particular Continent; Country; Area or Region. Either way, if a little harmless eccentricity helps in some respect, then it undoubtedly can be excused.

By: Mick Burrows