“They brought sleeping mats, cooking pots, serving bowls, wheat and barley, flour and roasted grain, beans, lentils, honey, butter, sheep, goats, and cheese for David and those who were with him.” 2 Samuel 17:28-29

My daughter sent me a screen shot of the answer to a question on the internet. They asked if cheese contains opioid properties. The answer according to AI was “no” with a caveat. When broken down the casein protein in cheese creates casomorphins, which bind to the opioid receptors in the brain and cause the feel-good feelings.

This explains a lot about my life. It explains why every sort of celebration should have some form of cheese, including, but not limited to, fondue, queso, cheese and sausage plates, and cheesecake. It explains why cheddar is better, Parmigiano Reggiano elevates ordinary pasta dishes, and why Fontina transforms macaroni and cheese. It explains why I squeal with delight when salty Paneer and briny Feta are added to Indian and Greek dishes respectively. I simply love cheese, and I feel good eating it.

I have no idea who thought to heat up milk, add salt and bacteria with rennet, and make cheese. But I am truly thankful. Whether it is from a cow, goat, water buffalo, or a sheep, I am thankful for this animal’s contribution to my diet. I am thankful I was born in Wisconsin where being a cheesehead is an honor and we know where to find the squeakiest cheese curds. And I am especially grateful I am not lactose intolerant.

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