Myths

Myth

Myths are superstitious beliefs that conveniently explain the unexplainable. They explain the beliefs and history of cultures. In the absence of scientific information, myths were created to explain the mysteries of life. Not exactly true, myths give meaning to life and are real to the cultures that believe in them. Over time, they became accepted standards that were passed down by cultures, parents, guardians, or respected elders through story-telling and writing

As a young person, I was taught to believe what you I was by my elders. Growing up, some of the myths that my great-grandmother told me about were:

Ð'* When you clean the hair out of your brush, you should not throw the hair in the trash. Rather, you should burn the hair so that the birds do not get it and make a nest out of it. Because when they make a nest with your hair, you will get headaches form the birds pulling at the hair even though the hair is no longer attached to your head.

Ð'* You were fighting with the devil in your sleep if you woke up with bruises on your body. However, the condition is called Vicarious Bleeding.

Ð'* Indians do not have their picture taken because they believe that their spirit will be captured in the photograph.

Ð'* The earth was flat. However, it was proven that the earth is round.

Myths and mythology have impacted my values, the way I think, and the way I act. Some of the stories told to me as a youth are still a part of my everyday life, especially religious stories. My daily actions and decisions are based on my belief in life and death, and living a life that is pleasing to God.

Example References

CTM Incentives - 1. Incentive Program Rules of Thumb Ð'- General Guidelines.