WIREGRASS- It’s Friday the 13th, and people everywhere are acting like the toaster might have it out for them.
Why it happens
Every year has at least one Friday the 13th, and never more than three. This year had three. The calendar is just showing off.
Why we’re scared
Nobody knows for sure. The number 13 comes right after the “perfect” 12, which is rude. Friday has also had a bad reputation for centuries. Put them together and you get a superstition with great branding.
The phobia
The fear is called paraskevidekatriaphobia. If you can say it, you’re probably not scared of anything.
Signs of the times
Many buildings skip the 13th floor, so everyone just agrees to pretend floor 14 is floor 13. Some airlines skip row 13 too, which is reassuring.
Not everywhere
Italians fear the number 17, and Spanish speakers dread Tuesday the 13th. Everyone has a bad day; they just disagree on which one.
What’s next
The next Friday the 13th is in August 2027. Plan accordingly, or don’t.
Written without web research. No black cats were consulted.
