The best way to start a gluten-free diet? Just jump in!
Earlier this week, I went canoeing with Ben and James and his girlfriend. The threat of storms made everyone with good common sense stay off the river. I guess as a collective, we defy common sense more than we’d like to admit. Of course, sometimes we’re rewarded for our defiance and this float turned out to be one of those times.
The day was perfect. It was 80º; the water was warm enough to swim and just deep enough to avoid having to carry the canoes through the rapids. As always, the deep pools were a green that borders on blue. Turtles sunned themselves on rocks and logs skittering away as the boat neared them. Best of all, we had it all to ourselves.
I spent the first part of the trip in the driver’s seat. When you’re the driver, you must either go faster or slower than the water in order to have control of the canoe’s direction, otherwise, the current is in charge. Sometimes the current flows under trees and into rocks. At those times, control becomes important for keeping the canoe, its occupants, and its contents safe.
Down river we came to a short bluff. Ben decided he really needed to climb the bluff and jump in the river. First we scouted the depth of the water and the rock formations below to make sure he had plenty of clearance. Then we beached the canoe and yelled for James to beach his and bring the camera. Soon the jumping began.
Occasionally the countdown was, “One, two, three.” Other times, “One, two, scream!” Either way, the launch was quick and the destination predetermined. Sailing away from the rock required courage, surrender, and an uncertain landing.
I know it’s trite to use a river as a metaphor for life, but all day long I couldn’t help but see it that way – it feels best if you go with the flow but sometimes the flow will bash you against the rocks if you don’t use your will to change direction. If the water’s too cold or the bank too high, the best way in is to scream and jump. Once you’re in the water, you’ll figure out whether to let the water carry you downstream to a shallow spot or swim against the current to reach the nearest beach.
And so it is with adopting a gluten-free lifestyle. I get lots of questions about how to get started. I usually advise commitment for a year, supply a list of foods to avoid and a shopping list of items to purchase. I show clients how to read labels and order in a restaurant. All of these steps are helpful, but the truth is the best thing you can do is just jump in and follow the river. Float when you can, paddle when you have to, and be sure to see the beauty of the journey.
We’ll be here to hold your hand for the countdown – scream all you want to!
