Wednesday, April 23, 2008
BLACK CAT
Undoubtedly, the staggering number of commonly-held superstitious beliefs here in Manila may fill an entire book. And it would be maddening for any one to even think of trying to adhere to each one.
Out of this entire volume of astonishing insight for the excessively credulous, one that gives me the creeps to this day is the sight of a black cat. And at the risk of embarrassing myself, I have to admit that I oftentimes recoil from the sight of one about to cross my path. Perhaps, such trepidation is rooted in a long-held superstitious belief in the family, or it could just very well be a simple dislike for anything deemed as harbingers of bad luck.
Be that as it may, I must also admit that black cats make an interesting subject for my camera, and I considered it a lucky day when I saw this one lounging around.
Incidentally, unlike in the United States and several European countries, in Britain and Japan, having a black cat cross your path is considered good luck.
Here are a few cat superstitions from other countries (source: Pet Love Shack):
Scotland: A strange black cat on your porch brings prosperity.
Italy: - A cat sneezing is a good omen for everyone who hears it.
USA - It is bad luck to see a white cat at night.
Ireland - To kill a cat brings seventeen years of bad luck.
The Netherlands - Cats are not allowed in rooms where sensitive
private family discussions are being held.
posted by Señor Enrique at 10:02 AM
15 Comments:
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said... It was in July of 1981. I was on my way to meet a prospective employer for an interview. A black cat crossed my path. LUCKILY, the interview went well. I got hired. UNLUCKILY however on the same day, I met my would be husband. Hahaha. Ohhh.. I love to tease him about this. Pero hindi naman siya napipikon. hahaha.
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said...
P.S.
I think black cats are beautiful. But like you, they also give me the creeps. Look at the fur... ang ganda, noh? So shiny and smooth.-
said...
Black cats remind me of Sabrina the Teenage Witch! I'm not really fond of cats but they're still cute anyway.
(:-
Unknown said... I agree with Rhodora...black cats are beautiful. I'm always fascinated with cats' eyes. When i was a kid, I sometimes entertained myself with staring into a cat's eyes and see who'd blink first.:D
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said...
I have two black cats, this one seems very nice!
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Watergirl said...
I've mostly had orange tabby cats, and now have a calico cat at home. Always wished for a black cat with green eyes; while I'd want a totally black cat, will also consider one with boots (white paws).
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Señor Enrique said...
This cat appears too healthy and well-cared for to be just a typical Manila alley cat, Luke. A really nice specimen, I should say.
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Señor Enrique said...
This one's a real beaute, Luna. I wouldn't mind having it as my pet ... hehehe. But I'm not one to just grab one to take home.
I used to to play that game with my dog :)-
Señor Enrique said...
Like you, Kyels, am not too fond of cats, but they're all right especially when they keep the place free of mice and rats :)
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Señor Enrique said...
Yes, Rhoda, this is one well-cared for black cat. The only thing it is missing is bling-bling -- a jeweled necklace, perhaps.
I wouldn't be surprised if this cat came from an imported breed.
I can tell that your hubby is one quiet guy who knows not to pay any attention to your teasing :)
But that's a funny anecdote! Thanks for sharing.-
Señor Enrique said...
Wow! That'd be one gorgeous cat, MTan ... all black with white paws. Awesome!
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pusa said...
cats are really beautiful! and mysterious!
anyways i'm sooo excited coz i saw this picture at cnn's ireport!!! http://www.ireport.com/docs/DOC-14358
i was like hmmm this picture looks familiar, coz i was just here earlier checking out your cat then i saw it at cnn this afternoon! great job senor! :D-
Señor Enrique said...
Hehehe ... and I was being quiet about it, Agnes :)
Anyway, a friend emailed to suggest that I expand the audience, so to speak, of my photographs and she suggested that I submit them to CNN as a start.
Suffice it to say, this photo of the black cat has brought me a lot of good luck so far, Pusa ... hehehe.
Many thanks, dear!-
Sidney said...
When you see a one-eyed cat, spit on your thumb, stamp it in the palm of your hand, and make a wish. The wish will come true.
- American superstition-
Woooow!CNN! You are going international Eric!
Congrats!-
Señor Enrique said...
That's an interesting American superstition, Sidney; however, I've lived for so long in the States without ever hearing about this. Probably a belief amongst Native American?
"Wish You Were Here" already has an international reach, but CNN provides another large audience outside of the Filipino blogging community. And much to my delight, CNN editors' responses to my submissions have been auspicious.
Thanks, Sidney!
