amulets or charms

[leira]

Hi there
I was wondering what people beleived of charms (or amulets or talismans)
I have two items that I use for luck and protection. One was handed down to me and the other is a lucky object i always carry with me,
but when i sit down and think about my use of these I am not sure whether its faith or sentimentality or mind over matter or what!
I just wondered what others opinions of such objects, or if each item is objective!

thanks

 

[citizenzen]

was wondering what people beleived of charms (or amulets or talismans)

Your first post and I have to give it a resounding no.

I believe in life which manifests itself in this moment and the next.

It is magical, mysterious and charming enough for me.

 

[Dream]

I think historical items are really important, like the ones in museums, because they give you a feeling that you are connected to the people from long ago. For people in the military, its very significant to them if they join a regiment with a long history of victories. The symbol for that regiment and the number are important, and the tattoos are important. Also, doing the same things they did; like marching in the same areas and graduating from the same schools and going through the same obstacles. There is a lot of power in feeling a connection. Also there are personal sentimental items. I have some thing special that was given to me. It reminds me of home and people I know. Sometimes I keep it with me and look at it. Sometimes I put it in my hands and think about my family. I find myself wondering the same things as you, about talismans; but I like you stop short of saying that they are actually doing anything to me or for me. They are part of the big I Don't Know, because I don't comprehend how I exist or why I must be so temporary. A talisman is small, just like us, and I think we project the wishes for ourselves onto it.

 

[leira]

thanks guys!
I think having a charm, or using it etc, does fall into an unknown area.
I know that there are certain faiths that employ the use of amulets, and there are objects which are used in religious rituals, but it gets fuzzy very quickly. I mean can you class Rosaries as a talisman? How different is the faith we place in these from the belief we place in charms?
I do wonder where the belief or faith or spirituality in this comes from and where it falls. As I said before I have these objects, one is a pendant the other is a lucky stone, and when i think about it my use of them I am often astounded at the faith I place on them - almost unconsciously - That if I have an exam and I have my stone in my pocket it will bring success. It does sound completely ridiculous, I can see that lol. I am in complete agreement Dream, my pendant makes me feel connected with the person who passed away, perhaps thats why i feel its protective in some way.
I guess it does just come back to the "i don't know".
I guess in someways its like superstitions, some people would swear blind they weren't superstitous, but then they have their lucky bingo pen or avoid ladders. Could it be something in our genetic makeup, but we've learned to rationalize?
I appreciate your replies. Its something I've thought of often, but I've never been able to verbalise it, if you know what i mean.
thanks, all the best.