Those of us born into a technologically rich, urban-sprawled, industrialized society are often disillusioned. Children born in 2000 already don't know how to use a rotary phone, insert a VHS tape int
o a VCR, or what an outhouse is. However, some sects of American society have consciously chosen to live a life without excessive amenities, such as television, internet, or even electricity.
The Amish society is a religious sect, originating in Germany, that has chosen to live a life of order (ordnug). To them, this means living a plain life full of simplicity. The sentiment of simplicity reaches all aspects of life. Their dress is plain and practical, such as their bonnets and sun hats. Their structures are handmade, without "luxurious" table saws or nail guns. The way they spend "idle" time is to tend to livestock or sew a practical quilt. At the heart of all these activities lies the importance of faith.
Christianity, a belief in Christ as a Savior with foundations in the Bible, revolves around the everyday life of Amish folk. They revere modesty and ease in living, all the while maintaining purity in order to live a luxurious life in heaven. To them, paradise isn't the time we spend on this earth choosing between right and wrong; it's the salvation and companionship of Jesus Christ in the afterlife.
We can actually learn quite a lesson from the Amish way of life. Living within means, reverence for life, and enjoying the simple things are just a handful of practical, everyday affirmations we can only hope to experience in our own, over-stimulated lives.
Haha! You used Michael Armstrong for his plaid, amish-like shirt.
ReplyDeletePerhaps you could post all the spreads?