avatarDanya Khelfa

Summary

The article discusses the author's personal experience with having a birthday on Friday the 13th and the societal and marketing perceptions surrounding this date.

Abstract

The author of the article addresses the cultural superstitions and commercialization of Friday the 13th, particularly when it falls in October, as is the case 18 times between 2020 and 2030. Born on this date, the author shares the challenges of enduring teasing during childhood and the subsequent resentment towards the number 13 being labeled as unlucky and exploited for profit. Despite this, the author has learned to embrace their birthday and offers support to others in a similar situation, advocating for the beauty of the number 13 and encouraging a positive outlook on life.

Opinions

  • The author believes that there is nothing inherently wrong with Friday the 13th, despite societal superstitions.
  • They express a sense of camaraderie with others who share a birthday on this date, acknowledging the shared experience of being teased and the date's commercial exploitation.
  • The author initially reacted to teasing with sadness but later adopted a more defiant and accepting attitude towards their birthday.
  • They suggest that the number 13 is beautiful and should not be overshadowed by negative associations or marketing gimmicks.
  • The author takes a stance against the use of their birthday as a mere tool for driving sales, particularly in the context of Halloween-themed marketing.
  • They encourage a celebratory and appreciative mindset for those born on Friday the 13th, emphasizing the importance of personal significance over superstition.

What’s Wrong with Friday the 13th?

This date is now the most marketable date in the business world. Agree or Disagree?

stock photo courtesy of Pexels

And now to the question I asked in the title of this short article.

Well, my answer is…

Nothing!

Friday the 13th, in the month of October, will come around 18 times between the years of 2020 and 2030. That’s according to Google.

October the 13th is the date of my birth.

Imagine going to middle school on the day of your birthday, especially when that day was Friday, October 13th.

Poor lass, I know.

The students in my middle school most definitely saw the movie, “Friday the 13th” when it first came out, and so enjoyed teasing me about having that day be my birthday.

And so, on my birthday, I take the time out to write this article in support of those of you who know what it’s like having this day be your birthday.

I am here for you.

I know the feeling of not enjoying your birthday because of the supersitions around the number 13.

I know the feeling of having a ‘Friday the 13th’ birthday be used as a marketing tool to drive movie or Halloween sales!

It does build resentment in you when you become aware of this as a child growing up in countries where the number 13 is considered an ‘unlucky’ number.

First, the resentment builds at the idea of being born on this day, then at the idea of this day being an ‘unlucky’ day, and finally at the idea of it being a way to get people to spend some money!

Thanks Jason.

Anyway, the 13 is a beautiful number, and no one should take that away from you.

So, how did I deal with all the teasing growing up?

Well, first I would cry, so that would make the teachers make the kids stop. This was the 80s after all.

Then as I got older, I embraced my birthday, and so would just stare and smile at the kids as if to say…

You know that Jason… he’s my friend.

Just kidding…

Sometimes, in the face of teasing, it’s better not to say anything, and just let your eyes do the talking.

Happy birthday to anyone celebrating a birthday on this Friday the 13th in the month of October.

stock photo courtesy of Pexels

I wish that you have a wonderful birthday.

If you enjoyed this article, please read my other personal articles on appreciation.

Friday The 13th
Birthday
Halloween
Teasing
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