The World of Superstitions
As a Bangladeshi we all have our share of superstitions. It doesn't matter if you consider yourself to be a logical human being; superstitions are such an integral part of our daily life that we find ourselves unconsciously giving everyone two helpings of rice to make sure no one falls in the lake.
Each superstition has a separate origin and dates back to hundreds of years. Some actually hold a semblance of truth to them, while the rest are just the remnants of old wives' tales. In the 21st century however, it might seem out of place with everything else that is going on. But everyone holds onto at least one superstition close to their heart. Maybe you are superstitious or maybe it's the guilt of bringing shame to your entire family for not following their traditions. For me, it's the latter. Every time I walk over someone I can hear my grandmother shouting at me for stunting their growth. It doesn't matter if they're past puberty. This stuff has no time for logic.
Some of the most popular superstitions that we've all heard at least once include one shalikh brings bad luck and overturned shoes bring bad luck. Some are so ingrained into us that it's a part of our everyday habits. We usually spend more time knocking on wood to congratulate anyone than actually congratulating them. There are several superstitions surrounding black cats, doing anything an odd number of times and various activities in maghrib time. At one point in our past people used to kill black cats to bring good luck. It's almost as if they didn't know killing innocent beings are a one way ticket to hell and not heaven.
However, like everything else, a healthy dose of superstitions can even be good for the soul. With the cricket world cup coming up maybe it's time you dry cleaned your favourite jersey. So when Bangladesh is up there holding the cup you can brag to your friends about how you singlehandedly won it for us. It helps bring us some peace of mind. It can even give you a small surge of confidence for the upcoming job interview or watching our bowling. Sometimes things don't have to be scientifically sound for one to follow it. As long as you don't inflict your superstitions on everyone else, you're doing just fine.
If at the end of the day you're still unimpressed by superstitions, have a good laugh at your grandmother and take it easy. Just know that if you end up biting your tongue or choking on your water, it's her plotting to kick you out of the family.
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