My Superstitions

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"My Superstitions"

Superstitions are beliefs or practices that are considered irrational or


supernatural, often resulting in the attribution of magical powers to certain actions,
objects, or occurrences. These beliefs typically involve luck, fate, or ritualistic
behavior.
The origin of superstitions dates back to ancient times when people lacked
scientific explanations for natural phenomena. The unknown and unpredictable
nature of the world led individuals to create explanations based on supernatural
forces or divine intervention. Superstitions were developed as a way to control or
influence events beyond human understanding.
The decline of superstitions in modern times can be attributed to the
advancement of science and the spread of education. As scientific knowledge
expanded, many traditional superstitions were debunked or replaced by logical
explanations based on empirical evidence. The emphasis on critical thinking and
rationality in contemporary society has contributed to a reduction in superstitious
beliefs.
Although I consider myself not superstitious, in my childhood, I believed in
some superstitions influenced by Russian folklore and traditions. One prevalent
superstition in Russia is the belief that breaking a mirror brings seven years of bad
luck. This superstition stems from the idea that mirrors have mystical properties,
and breaking them can attract misfortune and problems. As a child, I would avoid
greeting someone or saying goodbye on the doorstep. It is believed that doing so
can ward off prosperity and good luck from the house, so it is common to wait for
the person to enter or exit completely before greeting. According to Russian
superstition, spilling salt is seen as an omen of troubles and conflicts. To counteract
this bad luck, it is said that you should throw a pinch of salt over your left shoulder
to neutralize the negative effect.
Superstitions are not limited to personal beliefs but can also be found in
various professions. For example, in the aviation industry, some pilots believe that
it is unlucky to take off at a certain time or date, leading to delays or rescheduling
of flights to avoid perceived bad omens. In the world of filmmaking, there is a
superstition known as the "curse of the Oscar," which suggests that winning an
Academy Award can bring about negative consequences or a downturn in one's
career. Some filmmakers also avoid mentioning the name of a particular film
during production for fear of jinxing its success at the box office. Superstitions in
professions serve as a form of ritualistic behavior or psychological comfort in the
face of uncertainty.
In conclusion, superstitions have played a significant role in human history,
shaping beliefs and behaviors across cultures. While many traditional superstitions
have diminished with the progress of science and education, remnants of these
beliefs can still be found in contemporary society and various professions.
Understanding the origins and cultural significance of superstitions provides
insight into human psychology and the ways in which we seek to make sense of
the unknown.

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