If you're concerned about today's events, you are part of a large group (17 million and counting!). There's so much to fear! Here are the origins of some superstitions for your Conversation Droppers.

Friday the 13th itself is one of the newer superstitions, arising during the mid 1800s. It is the confluence of two older superstitions, the Christian view of Friday as an unlucky day and the long tradition of 13 as an unlucky number. Combine the two and Whammo! A good reason to stay home.

Then we've got not walking under ladders. This advice is certainly practical, but originates from the fear of the gallows in early Britain.

How about knocking on wood? That comes from early Celtic beliefs of acknowledging the spirits that lived in trees. (In our neighborhood, we call them "squirrels.")

Enough! Let's talk about the beginning bids. What do you say about these hands as openers? And be careful: Get it wrong and who knows WHAT will happen!