cultural differences

I saw a beautiful agate necklace at the "Cultural Market" one afternoon. After negotiating for a right price, I picked up the necklace and proceeded to put it over my head. I told the saleman it might not be long enough. He looked very puzzled...

"why would you put it over your head?", he asked. I thought the question was odd.

"what would you do if you don't put it over your head?" I asked.

He said: "You put it in your hand and count the stones."

Well, some of you may have had this experience. I was holding the Buddhist beads. Now I know when I'm worried, anxious or unsettled, I need to count those bead I bought that I put over my head. But, not before I say my prayers.