Pure Luck!

By Lynn McPherson

With the recent passing of St. Patrick’s Day, I’ve been thinking about the idea of luck. Is it a real thing? Are people naturally lucky or unlucky? Where is the concept most prevalent? Let’s look at some of these questions on today’s blog post.

According to www.IrishCentral.com, the term ‘luck of the Irish’ comes from the successes of Irish miners during the second half of the 19^th century during the gold and silver rush. But the concept of luck is not strictly for the Emerald Isle. In fact, it seems to span across the globe, from a range of places and cultures. There are all sorts of different objects and rituals that are believed to bring luck.

Today, one of the most obvious places it can be seen is in sports. From community league hockey to major league baseball, there are all sorts of rituals that participating athletes seem to subscribe to.  Superstitions abound and can often explain seemingly inexplicable behaviour. For example, have you ever noticed a pitcher tap his leg twice before throwing a ball, or a big hitter refusing to shave a beard or wash a uniform? This can often be explained by the player’s belief that the behaviour will bring a lucky game. We are talking about elite sports players who are making millions of dollars!

Human behaviour can be fascinating. As a writer, I am always interested in the motivation behind action. With little science behind it, luck is one of the most puzzling but interesting ideas that people seem drawn to. Are there any rituals that you would like to share that bring you luck? Or do you shun the idea all together? I must admit that I am a believer. But ask me to explain why and I would have a hard time putting it into words.

Lynn McPherson has worked for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, ran a small business, and taught English across the globe. She has travelled the world solo where her daring spirit has led her to jump out of airplanes, dive with sharks, and learn she would never master a surfboard. She now channels her lifelong love of adventure and history into her writing, where she is free to go anywhere, anytime. Her cozy series has two books out: The Girls' Weekend Murder and The Girls Whispered Murder.  

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