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?
My disease(s) control my life, but my ability to enjoy life. I take them a challenge to find new, interesting ways to explore the world & food, and speak up for those who can’t for themselves!
Great mantra sweetie! I agree some days are just HARD, but having something to focus towards is a big help!
For years I let Celiac control me, until recently, I am in control of my body.
I have good days, horrible days, days where I want to burn this son of a wheat eating disease, and have a pity party for one. I had my little “Celiac bloat” at dinner last night and wanted to crawl under the table and beat the crap out of my gut & say “Can I just have ONE night out without you acting up”. Times like that I wonder why I even bothered going out in the first place.
But what helps me is that there are SEVERAL others out there like myself. 🙂 Knowing that others understand what I deal with helps a great deal.
Before when people asked “So what do you eat”, I would say “pretty much nothing” Now my response is I am eating healthier than before.
My mantra : I didn’t pick this Celiac, this Celiac picked me… 🙂