Make Your Own Luck | Learn to Love the Spookiness of Friday the 13th

Ah, Friday the 13th — the day when superstitions run wild, and everyone suddenly becomes an expert on all things unlucky. It’s the one day where people avoid walking under ladders, break out in a cold sweat if they see a black cat (gasp!), and some even refuse to leave their house altogether. But me? I’ve decided to love the spookiness of it all, and nothing says “spooky” quite like having a black cat named Salem to accompany me on this eerie day.

Why Are We Freaking Out Again?

Before we dive into the fun, let’s get a little history lesson (hence, the learn in the title) out of the way. Friday the 13th has long been considered an unlucky day, but why? Well, it’s a combination of two things: Fridays and the number 13. Historically, Friday was considered an unlucky day because it was the day of Jesus’ crucifixion. As for the number 13, it has always been viewed with suspicion. You know, because 12 is so perfect—12 months, 12 zodiac signs, 12 eggs in a dozen. And then there’s 13, the oddball number that just throws everything out of whack. Much like Taylor Swift, the number 13 has always been a favorite of mine.

When you combine the two, you get a day that’s practically dripping with bad juju. And while some people might shy away from it, I say, why not lean into the fun of it? After all, who doesn’t love a good spooky vibe?

The Ultimate Friday the 13th Companion

Our black cat, Salem is the ultimate Friday the 13th companion. Now, I know what you’re thinking: “You have a black cat! Aren’t you scared?” To which I say, absolutely not! Salem is the sweetest, most affectionate kitty you could ever meet. Sure, she’s got that classic black-cat allure, but she’s more likely to snuggle up on my lap than bring any bad luck. In fact, I’m convinced she’s my good luck charm.

Having Salem around on Friday the 13th just adds to the fun. I mean, how many people can say they have a real-life black cat to make their Friday the 13th even spookier? It’s like living in a Halloween movie, but without all the pesky curses and serial killers. Plus, let’s be honest—there’s something kind of cool about defying superstitions. Black cats are supposed to be bad luck? Pfft, not on my watch!

Superstitions and Silly Rituals

Speaking of superstitions, let’s talk about some of the wacky things people do on Friday the 13th to ward off bad luck. Some folks go to great lengths to avoid the so-called “unlucky” day. Here are a few of my favorite superstitions that people still cling to, despite living in the 21st century:

1. Avoiding Mirrors: Breaking a mirror is said to bring seven years of bad luck, so naturally, on Friday the 13th, people treat mirrors like they’re portals to another dimension. (Which, okay, maybe they are, but that’s a discussion for another day.)
2. No Traveling: Some people refuse to travel on this day, convinced that something bad will happen. Personally, I like to think that the roads are just a little less crowded, making it the perfect day for a spontaneous road trip.
3. Throwing Salt Over Your Shoulder: If you spill salt, the only way to avoid bad luck is to throw a pinch over your left shoulder. Because nothing says “I’m in control of my destiny” like flinging seasoning across the room.
4. Staying Indoors: Why risk it, right? Some people take the day off work, hole up at home, and wait for the day to pass. Meanwhile, I’m out here living my best life with Salem, probably tempting fate by walking under ladders and stepping on cracks.

But hey, to each their own! If these rituals bring people comfort, who am I to judge? I just prefer to laugh in the face of superstition, preferably with a black cat by my side.

Embracing the Spooky | Fun Friday the 13th Activities

So, what’s a girl to do on Friday the 13th if she’s not cowering in fear? Here are a few ways I like to celebrate the day:

1. Watch a Scary Movie (or Three): It’s practically a requirement, right? Whether it’s the classic “Friday the 13th” series (because, duh) or something new and spine-chilling, there’s no better way to get into the spirit of the day. Bonus points if you watch with a black cat curled up next to you.
2. Bake Spooky Treats: Why not whip up some black cat-shaped cookies or ghostly cupcakes? It’s a fun, festive way to indulge in some treats while paying homage to the day’s spooky vibes.
3. Visit a Haunted Location: If you’re feeling brave, why not visit a local haunted house or cemetery? Just make sure to bring Salem along for good luck—because, obviously, black cats are the new four-leaf clovers.
4. Read Some Creepy Stories: Whether it’s classic Edgar Allan Poe or something more modern, there’s nothing like getting lost in a good, creepy book. Plus, it’s the perfect excuse to curl up with Salem and a cup of tea.
5. Host a Friday the 13th Party: Who says Halloween should have all the fun? Throw a Friday the 13th bash complete with spooky decorations, themed snacks, and maybe even a little lighthearted fortune-telling. Just be sure to invite Salem—she’s the guest of honor, after all!

Why Friday the 13th Doesn’t Have to Be Scary

At the end of the day, Friday the 13th is what you make of it. Sure, it’s got a reputation for being unlucky, but that doesn’t mean you have to buy into the hype. In fact, I’d argue that embracing the day and making it your own—whether that means snuggling with a black cat, watching horror movies, or simply going about your day as usual—is the best way to break the superstition cycle.

So, if you find yourself getting a little nervous, just remember: It’s all in good fun. Grab your favorite spooky snacks, turn on a scary movie, and let the eerie vibes wash over you. And if you’re lucky enough to have a sweet black cat named Salem like I do, give her an extra cuddle—because she’s not just a cat, she’s a reminder that even the spookiest days can be full of love, laughter, and maybe just a little bit of snark.

Happy Friday the 13th!