Yiayia’s Superstitions

Never hand or pass a knife, a pair of scissors, or any object, which cuts to a friend, a loved one, or a family member. The superstition being that handing an object like a knife to them will sever the tie that binds you two together.

Whenever receiving a gift of socks, shoes, a handkerchief or undergarments make sure to give the gift giver a dollar in return. Supposedly, this assures the continuation of a fruitful and peaceful relationship. Personally, I think Yiayia espouses this particular belief to help defray the cost of gifts. On the other hand what do you have to lose?

Whenever you happen to see the sun in the sky and it appears as a perfect sphere; as long as your view of it is unobstructed—no telephone lines, street lamps, or trees are in the way—clasp a piece of gold, any gold will do, between your lips and pray three times to God. The sun will carry your wish on its golden rays. My favorite of Yiayia’s beliefs.