ancient rituals

i didn't realize how many things that we do these days that were born long ago. some of these things we just do because "that's the thing to do." but when you examine them, they seem ridiculous.

for example, take sneezing. when someone sneezes, most likely someone else will say, "bless you." did you know that this originated centuries ago when people believed that a sneeze drew evil spirits into your body? blessing someone after a sneeze was a ritual that supposedly got rid of the evil spirits.

perhaps you still believe this really happens. my family doesn't. at first, we just said nothing after one of us sneezed, but that just didn't seem right. after getting some inspiration from seinfeld, now we say, "you are so good looking!" after a sneeze. let's face it: i'd rather say "thank you" to someone who tells me i am good looking than someone who blesses me with no credentials. if the pope is around and blesses me, then i'll say thanks. but until then, i think i'll stick with a compliment.