Amish Insights on Technology
We hope this newsletter finds you well and enjoying the warm, sunny days of August. As the Summer season reaches its peak here in the Heartland, we are reminded of the beauty and simplicity that comes with living close to nature and away from the distractions of modern technology.
This week, we delve into the unique perspective of living without technology from the viewpoint of our Amish community. The Amish choose to reject modern technology due to the temptations, addictions, and divisions it can bring. By avoiding these "worldly things," they strive to live a life that is more aligned with their faith and values.
One of the main reasons for this lifestyle choice is rooted in Biblical teachings. Verses such as Romans 12:2, which advises not to conform to the world, and 1 John 2:15, which warns against loving worldly things, guide the Amish in their decision to live without modern conveniences. Proverbs 6:27 also serves as a reminder of the dangers of embracing such temptations.
Living without technology impacts daily life in various ways. While it may be less convenient, it frees up time for work and fosters closer relationships within the community. Without the distractions of electronic devices, Amish families spend more time together, engaging in meaningful conversations and activities.
However, this lifestyle does come with its challenges. Finding taxi drivers, staying updated on world news, and the physical demands of manual labor are some of the difficulties faced by the Amish. Despite these challenges, they find ways to stay informed through word of mouth, newspapers, and library books.
Interestingly, some Amish communities have adapted certain technologies to fit their lifestyle. For instance, telephones may be used in a "phone shack" located at the road, and electrical inverters connected to 12-volt batteries recharged by solar panels are sometimes permitted.
The absence of modern technology also affects how Amish children learn and play. They engage in traditional activities and use battery-operated educational toys that may sometimes be used to learn the alphabet, numbers, and colors. This approach ensures that children grow up with a strong sense of community and practical skills.
In emergencies, many Amish families have landline phones in phone shacks nearby, and some communities even allow portable black box phones. This ensures that they can handle medical needs and other urgent situations effectively.
For those considering reducing their reliance on technology, the Amish offer valuable advice. Reading "Fireproof" by Alex Kendrick and Stephen Kendrick can provide inspiration on overcoming temptations.
Starting with small steps, such as selling a computer, can make a significant difference.
Here are a few happenings the families dedicated to weaving the beautiful baskets featured on AmishBaskets.com have shared with us this week.
The Mast Family
This week, the Mast family welcomed Rosa's cousin, his wife, and their children, who traveled several hours to visit. They brought a delightful supper, including a hearty casserole, baked beans, fresh salad, and crisp sliced cucumbers. For dessert, they enjoyed brownies and store-bought ice cream. After supper, their cousin playfully tussled with the children on the lawn, washing their faces with a wet cloth. The children, not to be outdone, snuck up behind him and washed his face in return. It was a joyous evening filled with laughter and fun for everyone.
The Yoder Family
The Yoder family had an unexpected visitor this week—a raccoon that helped itself to one of their chickens. It seems raccoons have been quite active in the Yoder neighborhood lately. One neighbor reported losing 14 chickens, while another lost 6. The neighbor who lost 6 chickens brought a banty rooster to live at the Yoder farm. Unfortunately, the remaining chickens had turned on the poor rooster, attacking it as if to vent their frustrations. It's been a challenging week for the Yoders and their feathered friends.
The Gingerich Family
The wild blackberries are ripe and ready for picking, and the Gingerich family braved the increasing number of wood ticks and poison ivy to gather about a gallon of these delicious berries. Picking wild blackberries is always a race against the birds, but the family collected a good haul. They also canned over 30 quarts of green beans, noting that the bean plants have already begun to bloom again, promising a second crop. In addition to green beans, they canned pickles, corn, cabbage, zucchini, and tomatoes, ensuring their pantry is well-stocked for the months ahead.
"We never know what the future holds, but we know who holds the future."
— Amish Wisdom