Like the people we queried in our Navy Views question this week, I am not a superstitious person. In fact, I always find Friday the 13th to be a pretty good day. Of course, just the fact that it’s a Friday is enough to bring a smile to my face!

But superstitious or not, it’s funny how many things we do in our day to day lives that give a nod, intentional or not, to these beliefs.

I find myself “knocking on wood” on a regular basis. While I don’t go out of my way to avoid walking under a ladder, I do think about it, reminding myself I don’t believe in that stuff.

I do find myself feeling sorry for black cats on occasion. (However, my exhaustive research revealed that black cats are considered good luck and will bring a sailor home from the sea.)

I did manage to unearth a few seafaring superstitions. I’m not saying our Navy sailors put any stock in these, but it would be interesting to know if anyone has heard of them:
– It’s unlucky to start a voyage on Friday.
– Bananas on board are bad luck.
– Throwing stones into the sea will cause storms.
– Tattoos and piercings are said to ward off evil.
– Pouring or spilling wine on deck is good luck.
– Whistling on deck will call up the “wind devil.”
– Don’t step on board with your left foot first.
– Flowers on board are unlucky.
– Swallows seen at sea are a good sign.
– It’s unlucky to kill an albatross or a gull.

I found these online at www.pacificoffshorerigging.com and dockwalk.com. Read them with a grain of salt and toss them over your left shoulder.

Kathy Reed, editor