Surrounded by trees, I’ll always ask for good luck. (Provided photo — Diane Chase)

We discuss luck a lot in our family. We want our children to understand that they have control over their lives. Planning and being prepared is always a good practice. For example, we can buy a car and anticipate it will eventually need repairs or hope that nothing ever goes wrong. Having luck, good or bad, makes the success or failure generated by chance rather than by our actions. It sounds like solid parenting to make sure young adults realize all success and failure can’t be attributed to luck. But I think it’s still okay to feel safe with our traditions. Some scenarios require “knocking on wood.”

“Good luck” has become a greeting as we wish it upon friends and family. We want them to have just a touch of magic when taking a test, playing on a team, or meeting new people. We blame other situations on bad luck, such as a leaky roof, bad weather, or a lost opportunity. In reality, preparation and planning can solve many issues. Where is the fun in that? The circumstances whittle down to things we know will happen and instances we can’t control.

I am superstitious enough to want luck and anything else good on my side, and I will perform the necessary practices to push the good luck spirits onto my side. But why knock on wood?

Finding word origins can sometimes be a wordsmith arm wrestle. According to the History Channel, some people believe that the act originated during pagan times. People would knock on trees to awaken the tree fairies, ask for a blessing, or request for protection. Another vague source mentions possible Christian ties to the crucifixion. British folklore writer Steven Roud dismisses any claims except the connection to the playground game, “Tiggy Touchwood.” Similar to Tag, the child is only safe (protected) after touching something made of wood. So I’m trusting fate through either a childhood game or tree sprites. It seems reasonable to me.

I used to work with a fellow who only interviewed people when he wore a buttoned shirt. It didn’t matter if he was on the phone or face-to-face, but with each interview, he patted the buttons while preparing his questions, attributing his success to the habit. Professional athletes and coaches have elaborate traditions and superstitions before starting each game.

Whether individual rituals bring luck is debatable, the true benefit is in the calming effect traditions have on easing stress. Whether wearing lucky socks or counting to ten before an event, any belief provides the opportunity for safety and control. Therefore, I will always knock on wood when asked about my children’s health. Good luck with your own traditions.