Biting Bullets and Serving Cold Shoulders The Unexpected Histories of Old Expressions
When you’ve had to “bite the bullet” and face a difficult situation, did you get a mouth full of gunpowder? Or, has someone’s “cold shoulder” left you with indigestion? While we hear these common expressions often, their quirky origins may leave you feeling like a “cat’s got your tongue.” From wartime practices to subtle ways to kick out unwanted houseguests, the stories behind these phrases may surprise you. Bite the Bullet In the days before painkillers and anesthesia, doctors had a bang-up method to dull the pain of surgery. Soldiers injured on the battlefield were given a bullet to bite down on as a way to distract from the aches. We still use this expression to describe accepting something difficult or unpleasant. At least we won’t chip any teeth today! Give the Cold Shoulder Nothing stings quite like someone snubbing you and giving you a cold shoulder. As early as the 1800s, cold shoulders were considered a polite way to tell someone you wanted them to leave. Party hosts used to serve a cold piece of pork shoulder or beef to unwanted guests to say, “Get out.”
Break the Ice We have all probably had to “break the ice” in conversations or awkward social situations, but its origins are far more literal. Ships used to be the primary mode of transportation for goods, and road infrastructure was many years away. While carrying goods to trade, ships often got stuck in ice. The receiving country would send small ships to break the ice and make a path for the trade ships. It symbolized an understanding and partnership between two territories.
LESS SPACE, MORE FREEDOM A Retiree’s Guide to Downsizing Smartly
In your golden years, downsizing can be a great way to simplify your lifestyle, reduce expenses, and free up resources for enjoying your golden years. But while the idea of a smaller home and less upkeep is appealing, the process can feel overwhelming. Here’s a guide to help you navigate downsizing with confidence. ASSESS YOUR NEEDS Before deciding to downsize, think carefully about what you want in this new phase of life. Are you looking to save money, move closer to family, or enjoy a more manageable space? Consider factors like health needs, access to health care facilities, proximity to loved ones, and the type of community that fits your lifestyle. EVALUATE YOUR CURRENT HOME Take stock of your current house and its costs, including mortgage payments, property taxes, maintenance, and utility
bills. Compare these expenses with what you might spend in a smaller house, condominium, or senior community. Downsizing often leads to lower expenses, but grasping the full financial picture is key. DECLUTTER AND SIMPLIFY Downsizing means making tough decisions about what to keep, donate, or throw away.
Start with items you no longer use or that don’t hold sentimental value. Create a system to sort through belongings and welcome the help of family, friends, or professional organizers to make the process easier. RESEARCH THE MARKET Explore housing options that meet your needs and budget. Look into communities that offer amenities that suit you, such as fitness centers, social activities, or easy access to public transportation. Visiting properties in person or virtually can give you a better sense of what to expect. PLAN THE MOVE Moving can be stressful, so start planning early. Hire reputable movers and consider downsizing services that specialize in helping retirees transition to smaller homes. If your move involves a large lifestyle change, take time to adjust and settle into your new environment.
2 • CampbellWealth.com
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