Liberal Soldier & Totems

I find it funny because, I've tried so hard in my time to rationalize religion, and then later to rationalize atheism. I think I'm caught somewhere in between, in a delicate...yet comfortable balance.

One of the things I've noticed about Soldiers, and many people of the same mindset (some whom I call adventurers; and some passionate true idealists from all political and religious spectrum) is a lingering sense of Superstition, no matter what religious or rational views one might hold. And I dont refer to things that I consider shallow, for example horoscopes. Alot of people read horoscopes, not really caring one way or another as to their truth.

What I find myself, and quite a few of my friends doing, is developing somewhat complex, deep rituals. Sometimes they are only important to us, and we might not tell anyone. But for us, at least for me, it is a viable part of the mission, whether others know it or not. Whether or not I admit it to myself.

If ever I walk outside my front door, I usually pop a ciggy in my mouth. But I usually do an odd little ritual that I've developed over my years. I look up, an I see what birds are flying about. The common ones, Pigeons, Sparrows, and the like don't really mean much to me. If I see an Eagle, something in my mind rings out that this will be a good day. If I see a hawk, it is neither good nor bad, but it will be a trying day, and I may not see why for months. If I see a vulture, it doesn't stop me from doing anything, but I am much more wary and open-eyed (at least so I don't step on the carcass its trying to get to). However, for whatever reason, the Crow/Raven is most important to me. If I see one about, and don't see a logical reason for it to be about, I assume, in my mind's eye, that something important will happen today.

But its more than just that. I just suppose my avian omens are the most vibrant bits of evidence about my superstition. But smaller things play a roll. I always wear the same hat, its like a security feeling. I wear a multi-colored 550 cord bracelete on my left wrist that I made myself in Kuwait. All of my tattoos have very deep and personal meaning to me (there are only two).

Alot of the same for most of my friends. I've met people before who get Tattoos because the sun was shining on a specific day, it seems. In truth, what better reason, I suppose? But still, it seems frivilous to me.

Little things like that.

What about you guys? Got any wierd rituals or superstitions you've never told anyone about?