Powerful indeed...that is something even *I* stipulate to.

(Yes, I 'saw fit to post'...much more 'lightly' than I would have once,
as 'curses' are kinda subjective. People have been known to BECOME ill just from believing strongly that they were expected to.)
[ and yes... I realize that personal rituals can be comforting *smile*. I don't like to show my craft projects until they are finished, but it's because the expectations of others can affect my own behavior in the finishing process. I don't fret seriously about it if someone does see one though.]

Hmmm, Ebbie... that 'anecdotal evidence' thing is tricky. It may be indicative of something, and it may be just selective attention...*shrug*. We skeptics try to keep both possibilities in mind. It's...ummm...sort of a ritual.. ☺