THE MOON ISN’T MADE OF CHEESE? The Story Behind the Myth
We’ve all heard the silly statement before: “The moon is made of cheese!” Although we may not fall for it as adults, when we were children, our eyes twinkled with possibility as we gazed up at the full moon and wondered if it really could be made of cheese. While science says no, it’s still an entertaining phrase that holds a valuable lesson for adults and children alike. The motif first appeared in folklore during the High Middle Ages as a proverb invented by a French rabbi. The full phrase is actually “The moon is made of green cheese,” and serves to warn against the dangers of credulity, or the willingness to believe in things that aren’t based on reasonable proof or knowledge. The simplest version of the phrase’s origin tells of a cunning fox that advised a starving wolf to search for food among humans.
The wolf listened, and he was attacked by the humans. The wolf escaped, and in his fury, he attempted to kill the fox. To save himself, the fox promised the wolf that he’d show him the location of an abundant food supply. That night, under the light of a full moon, the fox led the wolf to a well and pointed to the reflection of the full moon on the water’s surface deep in the well, claiming it was cheese. The hungry wolf jumped into the well to eat the cheese, forever trapping himself. Thus, the fox successfully escaped the wolf’s wrath. As with any ancient proverb, variations of the story have developed over time, but its message has remained the same: Don’t believe everything you’re told. In today’s world of oversaturated information and advice, this is a valuable tip to follow, no matter what age you are.
IN LOVE ANDWORKERS’ COMP Don’t Settle for Less
WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN 10 YEARS?
In matters of both love and workers’ compensation, people worry about “settling.” No one wants to end up with the wrong fit for their long-term needs, but they also don’t want to let a potentially great match pass them by. While we don’t claim to be experts on romance here at the DiBartolomeo Law Office, we are pretty darn good matchmakers when it comes to injury claims. Here are some of the questions we ask when determining whether an offer is a good fit or a settlement you’ll quickly fall out of love with.
does it account for the totality of your injuries? Just as you wouldn’t want a Valentine who only cares for some of your qualities, you don’t want a settlement that only cares for part of your medical problems and expenses.
This is more than a generic “speed dating” question where workers’ compensation is concerned. Having a plan for your future is key to knowing whether a settlement is actually a good fit. If you can never be gainfully employed again due to your injury or need expensive medical treatments periodically for the rest of your life, the offer the insurance company makes must reflect these realities. A settlement isn’t a one- time windfall; it’s a long-term relationship. Terms and conditions can be complicated when examining a settlement. If you need a wingman to help you understand if you’re getting the offer you deserve, give us a call at 503-325-8600.
WHAT ARE YOU BEING ASKED TO GIVE UP?
Settlements, much like relationships, involve some degree of compromise. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but it’s important to know what you’re getting into before you commit — what may be a good deal for one person might be a no- go for you. Take a look at what benefits aren’t included in your settlement: Could you use vocational training? Will you be compensated for traveling for medical treatments? You should make sure any settlement covers your needs.
DO YOU KNOW YOUR WORTH?
The problem with any workers’ compensation settlement offer is that most people don’t know what they’re being asked to give up. Sure, the proposal might look good on paper, but
The Di Bartolomeo Law Office, P.C. 1139 Exchange Street | Astoria, Oregon | 503-325-8600 | www.JoeDiBartolomeo.com
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