In an interview I did a few years ago, I was asked to name 5 ways we could live like the Amish. In this journal entry I will list one way, and in subsequent entries list the other four:

Prioritize Faith and Family: We live in an instant culture, especially due to advances in technology. My Amish friends, however, remain deeply connected to their roots and make faith and family their number one priorities. To them, this means saying no to television, phones in their homes, movies, and other things that can often draw attention away from these priorities. Instead, the Amish fill their lives when not working with fellowship, family fun, nature, and God. Some also enjoy traveling, but of course, that means either hiring a driver or taking a bus or train.

Amish children are taught from a young age to put their focus on God and family and not things of the world. The Amish don’t think electricity is sinful, but it can serve as a temptation to have more or do worldly things. We English may not want to get rid of our TV or phones permanently, but we might consider taking a break from technology from time to time.

Have you given up anything or changed the way you do something to become more like the Amish?

In my novel, The English Son, Joel Byler left his Amish roots to explore the English world and gain modern things. By leaving the faith in the way that he did, Joel hurt his family as well as his girlfriend.

There are many reasons a person may move away from their family, but when they do it in a hurtful manner, or only visit when they want something, it puts a strain on everyone. Bitterness and strife can take root as well.

Have you ever been hurt by a family member who either left home for selfish reasons or only came around when they needed something? How did you deal with the situation? How do you think God wants us to treat wayward family members?

I’ve experienced the pleasure of knowing, even in some small way, what it feels like to be Amish whenever I spend time with our Amish friends. A few years ago my husband and I were invited to stay with some of our Amish friends for several days. While we were there, I enjoyed washing the dishes, hanging freshly washed clothes on the line to dry, and helping to cook a meal on a propane-operated stove. I gave up watching TV, curling my hair, working on the computer, and communicating via my cell phone with emails and text messages. Instead, I spent many hours visiting, singing, watching Amish children play, and becoming one with nature. That Sunday, my husband and I attended church with our Amish friends, and rode in their horse-pulled buggy. We may not have understood all the words being said during the three-hour service, but we felt a worshipful spirit as Amish voices were lifted to the rafters in praise to God.

Have you ever tried being Amish for a day, or even a few hours? If so, what did you do and how did it make you feel?