Are you superstious or lucky?

Yes, today is my birthday and it is Friday, the 13th - ooh, scared yet? Because of my birthday falling on the 13th, I decided as a child to make the number 13 a lucky omen for me! No one was going to scare me into believing I would ever have bad luck due to the number 13 and its negative connotation.

I have looked superstition square in the face and said, "bring it on!" Over the years, including on Friday the 13th when I also turned "13," I have played with the notion that the number 13 was intended to bring me luck because I was born on that auspicious day.

No, I don't take superstitions seriously although I have been known to knock on wood, treasure a 4-leaf clover I found, throw salt over my shoulder, avoid walking under a ladder, never open an umbrella indoors and a few other, um, suggestions!

I'm a firm believer we each make our own luck for the most part and the harder I work, the luckier I seem to be. Yes, some people do have certain advantages over others - that is life and the luck of the draw (oops did I just say that?!) But are some people luckier due to nothing more than observing a superstition...I think not!

Globally, superstitions abound with endless ramifications for not taking heed. My global training and research over the years have provided intriguing insights into the various cultural superstitions that remain alive and well today - and very much observed. And far be it from me to ever admonish or argue with anyone who chooses to believe in the power of superstitions.

Yes, I respect the superstitious observations of others, but for me, I will continue working hard making my own luck.

Hmm, as I recall I was sick on my 13th birthday and missed my party and I am down with the flu today soooo....!