Superstitions.

Superstition is the belief that particular events , rituals , actions and object bring good or bad luck . Superstitions cannot be explained by reason as they are based magic , witchcraft and astrology .

Most cultures have their superstitions . In Poland many people are superstitious about the number 13 ( especially Friday 13th ) , black cats or breaking mirrors . They have some lucky charms , too . When they see a chimney-sweep in the street , for example , they think that they will have good luck . They also believe in the magic power of certain lucky objects such as horse shoes , elephants or a four-leaf clover . Many superstition people wear talismans , carry luck stones or touch wood to chase away evil spirits . Students often bring their lucky pens or favourite toys to exams , and brides wear something blue for the wedding ceremony . Incredibly enough , even some businessmen consult an astrologer before investing money in a risky venture or on the stock exchange .

Many critics say that astrology and irrational beliefs are a kind of substitute religion which does not bring any good and makes people addicted . They consider astrological forecasts and prophesies as complete nonsense . Women are usually more influenced by various omens , luck charms , superstitions and horoscopes , and tend to take them seriously . They not only know their own sign of Zodiac , for instance , but also the signs of their partners , children and friends . They are convinced that the positions of the stars and the movements of the planets at a certain time , for example a day of a person’s birth , have a deep influence on human affairs . Hence , they often read horoscopes to learn what might happen to them in the future or find out whether their partners are the “ right “ ones .

Although the belief in “ hocus-pocus “ may seem ridiculous , it is not utter nonsense . It makes people feel more self-confident and secure , gives them hope and offers the illusion that they can control their lives not only at the present moment but also in the future .

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