I have always paid attention to the strange things my elders would say, and I feel this is why I have always been fascinated by superstitions.
For example, my late grandfather would say that witches were women who went out into the cow pasture at midnight, and while standing on a pile of manure, swear off the Christian god.
Meanwhile, my other late grandfather would send me out to the backyard with a cup of birdseed and sugar cubes. The seed was for the birds and the sugar cubes were for the fairies.
After reading numerous books on superstitions, I have realized that a great number of superstitions have never been documented.
This leaves the field of superstitions open to new findings, even in today’s world, and the collections of worldwide superstitions can be increased by anyone willing to do a bit of work (and listening).
How to Gather “New” Superstitions
1. Talk to people you know about superstitions and family beliefs. Talk to strangers.
2. Initiate conversations about superstitions or “strange beliefs” online.
3. Keep detailed records of what you learn.
4. Collect material evidence, such as charms, talismans, or other objects.
5. After you have started to gather more superstitions, begin to organize them by subject, region, etc.
6. Share your findings. Don’t keep it to yourself. Share your findings online, in an article, or even in your own book.
Whatever you do, don’t let family lore and local beliefs die out. Together we can make certain that future generations will have a treasure trove of lore to read through and research.
