BLACK CATS-MYTHS AND FACTS-PART II

In ancient times, Druids believed these cats were humans, reincarnated as cats as a punishment for evil deeds they'd committed in a past life.  In the Middle Ages, in Germany, it was believed that if a black cat jumped on the bed of a sick person, then the person would die.  In Finland, they were believed to carry the souls of the dead to the afterlife.  In 18th and 19th century England, fishermen's wives kept these cats because they believed this helped to keep their husbands safe at sea.  If one ran in front of a sailor as he walk up a pier, this would bring him good luck.  However, if ti crossed his path, it meant bad luck.  At this time, cats were carried on ships to keep rats and mice at bay.  If a black cat was thrown, or accidentally fell overboard, this was believed to bring bad luck in the form of a terrible storm.  Interestingly, in England, Scotland and Australia today, a black cat crossing your path is supposed to be lucky.  But if you live in Ireland, most of the rest of Europe, India or America it's meant to be bad luck!