How do you define luck?  Is it winning the lottery after buying only one ticket?  Is it narrowly missing something dangerous?  What can you do to be more lucky?

Luck is defined as “success or failure apparently brought by chance rather than through one’s own actions” or “a force that brings good fortune or adversity” (Merriam Webster).

Around the world and throughout most cultures, luck comes in many forms.  We see it in various symbols across countries, like the four-leaf clover in Ireland represents a good luck charm, or in China the Mystic Knot with its six infinity knots to represent never-ending luck.

Similarly, there are lucky actions or superstitions, most of which have long histories which people don’t even know.  For example, crossing your fingers to bring luck dates back to early Christianity, where people crossed their fingers to have the protection of the cross.  We also see the action of knocking on wood to protect us from bad luck, which was once done to chase away evil spirits.  Also, in Spain at midnight on New Year’s Eve they eat 12 grapes to symbolize good luck for each of the coming 12 months.

Furthermore, there are lucky phrases across the world that people say to one another to bring good luck.  People say “Buena Suerte” in Spanish, “Bonne Chance” in French, “Buona Fortuna” in Italian, or “Kila la kheri” in Swahili.

There are also lucky numbers, either specific to an entire culture or to a person.  People have a lucky number that means something to them based on a significant event, or maybe something good happened to them regarding that number and now that number represents good luck.  Cultures also have lucky numbers.  In China, for example, the number 8 is lucky and has meanings of prosperity, success and status, so people frequently use the number 8 when they can.  In Judaism, the number 18 is lucky because it means “life”, so people often wear a necklace with this word and number.

So, whether you have a lucky number or phrase, don’t worry because luck is on your side! And today might just be your lucky day!