JR and I have had an opportunity to see Amish daily life first hand by taking an Amish buggy ride through four miles of Amish farmlands in West Lancaster County. Our driver took us to his dairy farm and toured us through his barn. He was a pleasant, easy going fellow with five kids and 15 grandchildren. They all speak German amongst themselves. One of the youngsters sold us homemade root beer and sugar cookies. We discover there are over 25 different Amish, Mennonite, and Brethren church groups in West Lancaster County today. The more traditional groups of Amish are called 'Old Order. They wear plain clothing styles, which has earned them the name "Plain People". It is the simple, peaceful lifestyle of these plain people that attracts such a curiosity today. Many wonder how these people can survive in their supposedly backward ways. Well, they're not only surviving - they're thriving.
We’ve learned that the Older Order Amish do not permit electricity or telephones in their homes. By restricting access to television, radio, and telephones, the Amish are better able to keep the modern world and technologies from intruding into their home. Musical instruments are forbidden by the Old 0lder Amish community. Playing an instrument would be "worldly." It is contrary to the spirit of humility, and would stir up the emotions of those who are involved.
The Amish have long preferred farming as a way of life. They feel their lifestyle and their families can best be maintained in a rural environment. While they do not permit the use of tractors in their fields, these old order Amish groups do use modern farm equipment pulled by teams of horses or mules. The old order groups do not own or operate automobiles, believing that cars would provide easier access to the ways of the world. You will often see their horses and buggies along local roads. Yes, however the Amish do use gas. Bottled gas is used to operate water heaters, modern stoves and refrigerators. Gas-pressured lanterns and lamps are used to light homes, barns and shops.They believe large families are a blessing from God. Amish rules allows marrying only between members of Amish Church.
The Amish do not educate their children past the 8th grade, believing that the basic knowledge offered up to that point is sufficient to prepare one for the Amish lifestyle. Almost no Amish go to high school, much less to college. In many communities, the Amish operate their own schools, which are typically one room schoolhouses with teachers (young unmarried women) from the Amish community. Looks like no chance of Christa obtaining a teaching job here folks. JR could probably lend a hand barn raising if he was inclined.
