Very Superstitious

In the words of Stevie Wonder, “When you believe in things you don’t understand” you’re probably superstitious and in the spirit of Halloween, there are many superstitions that can bring good luck or an early death… As an Italian-American I am familiar with many superstitions, some more well known than others, such as avoiding black cats or walking under ladders.  However, there are some beliefs more particular to Italian culture such as the ‘Malocchio’ which means ‘evil eye.’  While many cultures believe eyes can channel evil spirits or bad luck, each have particular customs.  If you are at all concerned with your well-being, I’d keep the following ‘do’s and do not’s’ listed below in mind.

If you want to get married…

1. Do not sweep a broom over your feet.
2. Do not sit at the corner of a table (it’s never comfortable). 

If it is New Year’s…

1. Eat lentils for good luck.
2. Wear red underwear for good luck.
3. Sweep money in and out of the house (but not with a witches’ broom).

To avoid death…

1. Do not put new shoes on the table.
2. Do not break a bottle of olive oil.
3. Do not let three people set a bed.
4. Do not place your bed across from the door (it’s always drafty).
   

To avoid bad luck or harm…

1. Do not flip bread upside down.
2. Do not open an umbrella in the house (your carpet may get wet).
3. Do not cross forks on the table.
4. ‘Tocca fero,’ touch iron (or if you’re American, knock on wood).
5. Do not make a toast with water (wine or champagne is always better).
6. Wear ‘cornicello,’ a little red horn (some call it a pepper).
7. Avoid the number 17.
8. Do not spill salt.

If…

1. Your hand itches you will receive money (but there is no guarantee).
2. You buy someone a purse or wallet always put money in it.
3. You see a spider at night you will receive money.

Many of these superstitions stem from Catholic faith, such as flipping bread upside down which represents turning over the Eucharist or body of Christ.  Others relate to the burial of the deceased, such as placing a bed near the door which compares to sitting across a coffin in church.  Placing shoes on the table is also eerily similar to dressing a cadaver.  Although some people believe in superstitions whole-heartedly, I follow them as part of tradition and as a way of being connected to two cultures.  So, as Halloween approaches, just think about how some of your family’s superstitions have developed and for my sake please avoid some of the dangers listed above.

-Stephanie Montalti