very hard end of cheese - can I get it soft again?

[redcandlelight]

as above.
have a block of gouda.
the last inch of the block (with the rind) is rock hard. too hard for a grater even.
can I get it softer again?

Don’t think so. But stick it in the freezer and add next time you make veg soup for extra flavour.

problem with that is the plastic wax which is welded to the cheese.
but maybe that will be easier to remove after freezing it.