Friday the 13th: Unlucky or a Fortunate Event?

Many people consider Friday the 13 an unlucky day. In fact the scientific term, "paraskevidekatriaphobia", has been given for this irrational, morbid fear of Friday the 13. Some folks refuse to leave their homes, and those that do venture into the great outdoors, watch carefully not to walk under ladders, or step on the cracks on sidewalks. Photo credit: Wikipedia: Lilith The Cat People who are worried about Friday the 13 have had three opportunities in 2009 to be afraid . . . very afraid. The dates of these three challenging calendar events are February 13, March 13 and November 13. The good news is that in 2010, Friday, August 13 will be the only occurrence of this oftentimes dreaded date. The fear of Friday the 13 can be quite dramatic. Dr. Donald Dossey, author and founder of the Stress Management Center/Phobia Institute reports that as many as 21 million Americans fear the day. Symptoms can range from mild anxiety to full blown panic attacks. Some folks actually celebrate this event. Parties are often held, some fund-raising and charitable organizations hold their functions and events on Friday the 13th. Concerts, wine tasting nights and art exhibitions are often held to celebrate the day. This day is not always gloomy for everyone! In fact, there are those that consider themselves lucky to be born on Friday the 13th. Lottery ticket agents are often kept very busy, with people taking extra chances to beat the odds. According to CNN.com, a British couple who purchased a lottery tickets on Friday the 13 won $17 million, shortly after a mirror in their home fell off the living room wall and smashed to pieces. However, In Brazil if Friday the 13 falls in August, it is considered to be unluckier than any other Friday the 13. Of course the black cat, steeped in mystery and fable is generally associated with Friday the 13. These cats have been given a very nasty and uncalled for reputation. Some folks think, "What could be unluckier than a black cat crossing your path, or appearing under the ladder that is so carefully avoided?" The black cat is considered by many folks to be either a diabolical sign or completely at the other end of the spectrum, a bringer of good fortune. Read more about these very maligned or adored felines by visiting: http://www.petside.com/the-sidewalk/black-cat-myths.php What is your take on black cats and Friday the 13? Are you worried? Leave a comment but don't scare us too deeply.