World Superstitions

The Latin root of the word ‘superstition’ means ‘to stand over in awe’ and relates to irrational belief that defies a logical explanation. Many primitive beliefs date back a thousand years and more. They were created to try to overcome fear of the unknown and the loss of control over life and death events. Many people believed that the future was influenced by ordinary, everyday mistakes and that the future could be foretold by carefully watching simple actions of daily living. These odd ideas were deeply embedded in the minds of people across the globe. Once a belief becomes part of the tradition of a country, it is almost impossible to remove it. Education has eliminated many of these customs from our culture as we now live in a society that requires demonstration, proof, argument and understanding, for belief to survive.

Superstitions Part Two

The superstition about walking under a ladder is not because a pot of paint might fall on you. It is due to the shape that the ladder makes when placed against a wall. The triangle was a holy shape in times gone by, and when walking beneath the ladder, one ‘breaks the triangle’ – the symbol of the Christian Trinity.

In herbal folklore Solomon’s Seal will banish poisonous insects, a hazel tree branch that is gathered on Palm Sunday will keep lightening away, caraway seeds prevent poultry from wandering and fennel banishes witches.

Wendy's Dream Column

Dream: I am riding on a man's cycle along dark country lanes. I am going to a place where children are hiding. One holds a lit cigarette so I can recognise a place to stop. I am to rescue many children - about eight at a time. I take them all on the bike and they climb on each other's shoulders. Over the years I have had this recurring dream, I must have carried hundreds to safety. 

Wendy's reply: This profound dream reminds me of those brave people who fought in the resistance during the war and put their own lives at risk to save others from jeopardy. I suspect you have done much charitable work in the world without any recognition and thereby are privy to a personal secret concerning your sacrifice for others. You may have experienced hardship as a child or you could have inherited a truly unselfish disposition. Meditate on how it would feel for you to be holding the lighted cigarette, for you to be rescued from danger and be held tight on the shoulders of a strong person who is deeply committed to your welfare. Use the affirmation: I am a radiant beacon to others to achieve satisfaction of a life richly lived for the welfare of others. I will bestow a special gift upon myself as thanks from those who are unable to thank me personally for my kindness.