Very Superstitious...

Happy Friday the 13th!

For some, this won't be a happy day. Rather, this will be a day of staying inside, avoiding possible interactions with black cats, ladders, and anything else that conjures up a feeling of dread or potential bad luck.

Being born on Friday the 13th, I've received much strange commentary throughout my life pertaining to that day and various superstitions associated. I remember meeting an elderly acquaintance many years ago who, upon discovering my birth date, said, "you must be very unlucky." I wish I had responded with a witty comeback, but it's fairly unlikely. From what I recall, I just offered a cold stare. I think my mom said something, but I can't be sure of what. 

I've done a fair bit of reading on this subject--superstition around Friday the 13th and the number 13. Frankly, I find it weird that, to this day, many people refuse to schedule important events on the 13th, especially if it falls on a Friday. 

I happen to love Friday the 13th! I'm always excited when the day approaches. For one, I enjoy observing people's neuroses, but mostly I just look forward to watching an installment of one of my favourite movie franchises. 

See, Jason Voorhees and I have a special connection. Not only do we share the same birthday, but the original Friday the 13th film takes place on the day I was born. It's only natural that I came to love horror movies and the Friday the 13th series at a young age. 

Well, perhaps "natural" isn't correct. I was lucky enough to be born into a household of people who enjoyed the genre. How cool that my mom, who loves a good scare, gave birth to a Friday the 13th baby?! She always told me that the day is one of good luck, especially since I was born.

The next time you, or someone you know, is thinking of rescheduling a special event due to the ominous Friday the 13th date, I suggest going ahead and booking it. Have fun with it! Play tricks on people. Get into the spirit.

Superstition ain't the way.

RIP Betsy Palmer