GHOSTS IN THE HIGH SEAS
GHOSTS IN THE HIGH SEAS by mimi illenberger-mapa It is a common notion that seamen are a superstitious group of people. Perhaps it is the nature of their profession – the loneliness for families and loved ones; the deeper awareness of their surroundings; the ever-present danger from unpredictable forces of nature; and having more time on their hands to ponder on things unseen. All these contribute to making them what they are reputed to be - lusty, superstitious and garrulous men. There are many superstitious beliefs involving the sea and lakes around us. One universal belief among mariners is that when their bodies are given a sea burial, their souls rise as sea birds - albatross or sea gulls. Sea birds, then, according to sailors, must be treated with great kindness; otherwise they bring bad luck to the ship. Stories involving ghostly sightings on board sea vessels are also commonplace. Who hasn’t heard about the Flying Dutchman or St. Elmo’s fire? Su