I’ve Given Up Grains for Lent

With the exception of a few slips, I’ve been wheat-free since December 26. After reading Grain Brain a few months ago, I’ve wanted to eliminate all other grains from my food plan and evaluate whether or not I feel better physically and mentally (improved energy? lessening of brain fog?) But for some reason, I haven’t been able to let go of corn products. In fact, I’ve been hanging on to corn for dear life. I recently asked myself, “If you won’t give up all grains for your health, are you willing to try it for a Higher Purpose?

I decided the answer is “yes” and I have given up grains for Lent.

Here’s a little disclaimer. I’m Baptist and I didn’t grow up with the concept of Lent. In fact, when I was in the 5th grade a classmate told me she was giving up something for Lent. I thought she said lint and I was terribly confused. My parents taught me to respect other people’s religious beliefs, so I didn’t ask her why she gave up something for lint, lest I appear disrespectful.

For the past few years, I have observed a Lenten season of denial. One year I gave up caffeine. With every pang of withdrawal I was reminded that more than 2,000 years ago Christ made a sacrifice for me that was much more painful than the little bit of discomfort I was experiencing. (I’m now caffeine free day in and day out, so giving that up for Lent would really be cheating.)

I don’t know if I will remain grain-free after Easter. Through trial and error, I know I am allergic to wheat and it is my intention to keep that grain out of my life, one day at a time.

For now, when the grain pangs hit…and they have…I remember the cross.

Here’s another Baptist’s experience with Lent. I think it’s a great read.

Have you given up something for Lent? We’re in Day 3 now, so how’s it going for you? Hit me with a comment.

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