Superstitions began centuries ago when our ancestors tried to explain mysterious circumstances or events as best as they could with the knowledge they had. For instance, before the development of science explained such strange things as why mirrors show our reflections or why shadows appear when it's sunny, ancient people reasoned that a shadow or reflection was part of their soul. If someone broke something onto which the shadow or reflection appeared, people believed that their soul was harmed. Therefore, when a person broke a mirror it was considered unlucky or harmful. Today we know that reflections and shadows are not part of our souls but if someone still believes it is bad luck to break a mirror they are said to be superstitious. So a superstition is a belief or practice that people cling to even after new knowledge or facts prove that these silly beliefs are untrue. Common superstitions: Do not walk under a ladder or you will invite bad luck. Breaking a mirror will bring you 7 years of bad luck. It's bad luck to have a black cat cross your path. If you see a shooting star it will bring you good luck. The number 13 is bad luck. Carrying a rabbit's foot in your pocket will bring good luck. Don't eat chicken on New Year's Day or you will be scratching for money but if you eat pork you will be fattened with prosperity/money People believe that when you visit someone you should leave through the same door you came in or otherwise it is bad luck. If you step on a crack you will break your mother's back. If it rains on your wedding day you will be showered with good luck.