Knocking on wood for Friday the 13th

How strange that in these modern times We still have some quaint ways, Like superstitions, good and bad, Passed down from olden days. We’re told a horseshoe on the door Apparently brings luck, While any itchy palm is good, And could produce a buck. However, if you come across A ladder up a wall, You have to walk right round the thing, Or mishaps will befall. Thirteen’s the number to avoid, A fact that we all know, And should it fall on Friday, Then be wary how you go! Don’t ever let a mirror smash, This brings a lot of pain, You’ll have to wait for seven years To get life right again. There’s black cats, spilt salt and new moons, Plus those two knocks on wood, A touch of idiosyncrasy, So little understood. Sheila Chisnall, Brixham, Devon.