Simple but not easy
For as long as I can remember, I have had a largely uninformed fascination with the Amish people – a religious community indigenous to the U.S. that lead a very simple, conservative life, based on their literal interpretation of the Bible. Their beliefs prohibit their integration with modern society to the extent that some of the strictest divisions – like the Swartzentruber Amish – choose against using electricity, plumbing, phones and even furniture that is too comfortable!
During the summer, I came across an excellent book written by Joe Mackall entitled \’Plain Secrets: An Outsider among the Amish, where he explores his 10-year relationship with the Shetler family that live next door.
Mackall\’s skill as a journalist is his ability to provide such emotional insight into their way of life while acknowledging that no matter how long he has known them, he will never fully be accepted. He writes as objectively as one can, given the personal friendship that exists between them. At times, he swings between awe and horror at their philosophy of life but always with an awareness of his own shortcomings and possible prejudice. Mackall tries to come to terms with the dangers their chosen way of life presents; witnesses the defection of the Shetler’s nephew Jonas, to the outside world and shares their grief when their little girl Sarah, dies.
Reading this book might explain the astounding ability of the Amish to forgive Charles Roberts who massacred five of their little girls at a schoolhouse in Pennsylvania on October 2nd 2006 before killing himself. What else is there to say? It’s not for me to now provide an appropriate closing remark or cliched philosophy. While you’re reading the book, think about what it is that keeps you strong when the going gets tough. You’ll find inspiration in these pages.