I Believe in Swiss Cheese

by Sarah Sproul



Pale, fragile, and empty. These are all words that could be used to describe my favorite diary product: Swiss cheese. It is not every day that I say, “Yes, I am exactly like cheese.” However, from this day forth, I see that the connection between cheese and humans is not tethered far. The phrase “Looks can be deceiving” is not only a saying that is meant to be inspirational, it is also true. Just like me, Swiss cheese is stronger than it appears.

I believe in Swiss cheese.

This dairy product contains holes that cover its entire surface. Holes do not have to be dark, scary places where evil things loom. They do not even have to signify emptiness. Holes usually form from lack of something. I have my own holes whether they are from the lack of energy, friendship, love, or even fun in life. And, even though they may seem empty at the time, these holes can be filled if I make the effort. Once I find those things that complete me, the holes will no longer be dark, scary, and lonely places. I can grow from the initial holes in my life..

I believe in Swiss cheese.

The production of cheese is not that different from how people grow. As a general rule, cheese grows from bacteria and mold. Some people may believe that bacteria and mold are bad. However, bacteria and mold are what help the cheese develop and age. Those who make cheese let the product age, and once it is ready, they strip away the mold and reveal a delicious food. Just like cheese, I sometimes get in ruts and am surrounded by mold. I make decisions or am put in situations that seem dark, spotty, and distasteful. However, I learn from these decisions and situations. Once I realize that the mold has to go, I strip away the negativity of my surroundings, and I become a better person. It is almost as if I am a different person from before. Once my mold is gone, I’m beautiful, just like cheese.

I believe in Swiss cheese.

This particular cheese has an off-white color that can be misleading. With just a glance, Swiss cheese looks pale and sickly. However, white is a strong color that stands for purity, cleanliness, goodness, heaven, brilliance, and sincerity. Swiss cheese’s reputation, therefore, is not damaged but made positively stronger. In most cases, brides wear white wedding dresses to signify the same positive meaning that comes from the color white. Brides’ gowns show the women as innocent and pure. Both cheese’s and humans’ representation of color is positive.

Even though the stereotypes of Swiss cheese can be off-putting, behind all the holes, mold, and unique hue is a glorious treat. Just like cheese, I have my quirks, but I’m essentially a decent person. I just have to look deeply enough to see. I believe in myself just as I believe in Swiss cheese.