Friday, 13 February 2015

Are you a Triskaidekaphobic?

If so, you’re not alone. Actually, about 17 million people in the world have a fear of the number 13—including Stephen King, the author of dozens of freaky books!

According to my research, it dates way back to Ancient Rome where the number 13 was associated with death, misfortune, and destruction. (That’s intense!) But since then, triskaidekaphobia (say that 13 times fast—ha ha) has become one of the most common superstitions in the world.

Did you know that many apartment buildings and hotels don’t have a 13th floor, and some airplanes skip over row 13!

Researchers say superstitions are in our heads—like that never walking under a ladder or opening your umbrella indoors won’t actually bring bad luck. Superstitions apparently stem from the same human trait that causes people to believe in monsters and ghosts—when our brains can’t explain something, we make up reasons.

Maybe it is all in people’s heads, but I think I’ll be just a little bit more careful today. It’s the first Friday the 13th of 2015.

Hey—I wonder how Stephen King is spending his day. One thing’s for sure, I’m steering clear of mirrors!

Gotta jet!

— Chase Superman Duffy

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