Reading the Signs: What Everyday Symbols Really Mean

Have you ever noticed repeating numbers on a clock, found a penny heads-up, or, like me, had a black cat cross your path? It’s easy to wonder whether these seemingly random moments hold some kind of special meaning.

After my grandmother passed, I started seeing cardinals on repeat. I would see a minimum of one per day and sometimes as many as four. They also were in very different locations so I knew it wasn’t the same cardinal showing itself. Sometimes they landed near me, other times they flew across my car as I drove or while fly by me while I was on a walk. This went one for the better part of a year and then completely stopped. Lately it’s been dragonflies, large blue dragonflies. This happened with I was in Mexico and has been happening here. They fly by whether I’m walking, in the car, on a boat in the ocean or even in urban areas.

Many of us naturally look for signs in our environment, but what is it about these experiences that makes us stop and take notice?

The Psychology of Signs

Humans are wired to look for patterns—it’s part of how we make sense of the world. Psychologists call this tendency pattern recognition, and it helps us navigate life by identifying connections between events, actions, and outcomes. But sometimes, we see connections where there are none. This is known as apophenia, a term used to describe the human tendency to perceive meaningful patterns in random data.

So, when we assign meaning to everyday symbols, like finding a four-leaf clover or seeing a black cat, it might be less about the symbol itself and more about our need to find a narrative in our daily lives. In other words, these symbols give us a sense of control or reassurance, especially in uncertain times.

Signs vs. Superstitions

While the line between a meaningful sign and superstition can blur, it’s important to recognize that symbols—whether they are lucky pennies or ominous black cats—are largely neutral. What matters is the personal meaning we attach to them. For example, seeing a black cat might remind someone of bad luck, while for others, it could represent elegance or independence.

Similarly, repeating numbers like 11:11 on a clock may seem like a cosmic nudge to make a wish, but it could just be a reflection of your brain’s focus on a familiar pattern. These moments offer us a brief pause in our routine, a moment of reflection or hope, but they don’t necessarily dictate the future.

Finding Balance

So, what should we do when we encounter these everyday "signs"? One approach is to embrace them as opportunities for mindfulness. When something catches your attention—whether it's a black cat crossing your path, a particular bird, a coin, repeating number or spotting a rainbow—it’s a chance to check in with yourself. Ask, "What am I feeling in this moment? What might this experience be reflecting about my inner state?" I find I usually should be paying more attention to the thought that I had right before seeing a particular sign.

At the same time, it’s helpful to stay grounded. While it can be fun to assign personal meaning to these moments, remember that they are ultimately neutral events. Our perception of them is shaped by our thoughts, experiences, and emotions. Signs are what we make of them, and sometimes, they can serve as gentle reminders to stay present and aware of our surroundings.

A Little Magic in the Everyday

In the end, finding meaning in everyday symbols can add a sense of wonder to life, whether or not you believe in the superstitions behind them. Next time a sign grabs your attention, take it as a reminder to pause, reflect, and enjoy the little mysteries that keep life interesting.