Sometimes things are really hard for me still – even years after going gluten-free. I still struggle on a weekly basis – some weeks are better than others, some days are better than others. But I can’t keep feeling sorry for myself and I can’t keep crying over spilled milk (and crumbs of gluten). Sooner or later I have to embrace this life-long lifestyle change. This is who I am now, and I’m deciding to take the high road. I’m deciding to be proud. So when days get tough, I’m going to try to stay positive. I came up with my new mantra to keep in mind when the going gets tough and wheaty.

I never want my illness to define me, but since it’s with me forever – I’ve learned to live with it, and embrace it. It’s always a positive point of conversation – about the power of being healthy and the power of food. I’m allowing Celiac to make me a more interesting person – not a burden, and no longer the “sick” girl. I am an advocate, not a victim. Some days get me down, but days like today I feel proud that I’m taking control of my body.

What’s your mantra? What do you say to yourself to get through the hard times?