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Superstitions in my home
Even rational people own objects of spiritual power. These are mine. What are yours?
Before we enter the home, let me tell you a story. Once upon a time, within weeks of buying four brand new tires, my car and I parted ways in a four car pile-up. Ever since, I’ve only replaced two tires at a time out of an irrational fear that changing all four could be disastrous. Yesterday, I bought two new tires, and I’m nervous. Sure enough, less than six hours later, my oil light and check engine light came on. Uh-oh, here it comes. The car is in the shop, and a part of me believes, for no natural reason, it is because I bought new tires.
The vehicle is an inanimate object filled with parts that require regular maintenance and replacement (with a negligent driver). Yet, to see me through, I rely on other inanimate objects, especially those in my home, for protection. Why do I cling to these objects?
Elegua
Next to the entry door to my house is an egg-shaped piece of concrete. Inset shells evoke a sense of pareidolia. In the language of Yoruba and religion of Santeria, Elegua is the Lord of the Crossroads, guarding communication with the divine. It is for this reason he sits behind doors, watching what fortune comes in and out of the house. While my car’s in the shop, I put my…