Let’s start with a question: what’s your bridge fetish?

Don’t be alarmed at the question. Just like the word “rubber” doesn’t mean here what it might mean everywhere else, the term “fetish” doesn’t mean what you think.

A fetish is another word for an appropriate charm. A mojo bag. A hoodoo sack. A good luck charm, if you want to use a more common word.

When a charm like this is created to achieve a specific purpose or effect, it can be called a fetish. Many cultures have variations on items that are considered good luck charms – and there are a lot more of them than just rabbits’ feet.

Charms And Luck

I would assume that as soon as people realized odds can go one way or the other, they’ve had the use of charms.

I’ve always believed good luck charms to be a confidence trick.

When you put any trust or belief in a good luck charm, you’re instantly going to feel better about the odds at hand. That’s the closest to luck you’re going to get.

I’ve always loved things like bracelets, rings, charms. But not because I believe in some divine power orchestrating the odds (and their apparent love for tiny things or red underwear), but because I believe in what a confidence boost can do.

It’s like having a Good Meeting Tie versus Oh, God, I’ll Wear That When Someone Dies. Even people who claim they are far from superstitious will have a special object they grab when they need some encouragement.

Why Charms?

If you don’t believe in charms, why use them?

It’s about that little bit of confidence. For some people, their appropriate charms complete their image – and yes, I’ve met a lot of people who feel naked without their full regalia of rings or the right shoes.

Even for people who don’t give a damn, I encourage the use of charms, fetishes, or mojo bags for luck.

It’s never about luck as much as believing in your own ability.

Sometimes, charms can just be about relaxing the mind. Giving it something to think about. The brain goes, “Oh, there’s this.” instead of being nervous. Carrying a charm can also help to carry some familiarity to the game.

There are also times where charms serve a sentimental purpose. Many charms are objects that have been passed down, carried more for memory than they are for good luck.

Charms aren’t luck. Charms are relaxing and comforting, and that’s the feeling of luck right there.

Choosing Charms

Ready to choose a charm for your next bridge game?

An effective charm should be something that evokes emotion. Something that means something. Ideally, something small and portable.

The good news? A charm can be anything you like.

It doesn’t have to be visible to anyone else. It doesn’t have to be heavy, bulky, or obvious. It needs to make you feel better when wearing it.

Luck is in the mind of the wearer.

Do you have a favourite charm or object that you like having close?

Leave a comment below to let us know what makes you feel lucky.