An Amish Halloween

When I visit a particularly fave Swartzentruber Amish home, I know their children love candy. Small pieces of sweets find their way out of my pocket and into tiny outstretched hands. "Denke," they say in response to their father's reminder to say thanks. But, Amish don't do Halloween. 

Now this isn't to say that some of the "rebel" teens don't pull pranks. Soaping windows and burning a farmer's corn shocks near the road are but a couple of common pranks. I'd love to have my ex-Amish story-telling friends to leave your comments on ornery pranks.

Amish Farm Life

Did you know the Amish have different types of horses? Mosie said he grew up with about 15 horses on his farm.

Here's the typical breakdown: road horses (ones that pull buggies), farm horses (usually Belgium or Percheron), and draft mule (donkey and horse mix). The road horse I'm comfortable with but, those heavy Belgiums intimidate me. They're beautiful but BIG, weighing from one to two thousand pounds! I'm astonished when I see youngsters working or playing - with no fear - around these huge animals. Since the draft mule can work the longest day with less feed and water, it's more desirable. But conservative Amish orders forbid a mix breed, thinking it's not a natural creation of God.

Amish say, "It's God's Will"

One of the reasons my son-in-law left was to avoid it. When I recently spoke on Amish Customs and Beliefs, an audience member asked me about it? A blog reader asked me about the incidence within the Amish.

What am I talking about? Genetic problems and emotional disorders among the Amish. Sadly, these challenges are common. (Tweet That) My post today isn't meant to disrespect the Amish but to reveal one of their issues. One they are just now realizing and beginning to address.

Sometimes settlements will relocate in an effort to bring in "fresh blood." But without genetic research or genealogical studies, they don't know if they marry someone who, from generations past, is related.

I've met former Amish who have bi-polar, schizophrenia, depression, and addictions. I've met Amish with dwarfism. Everyone is precious and some of their challenges could've been avoided or properly diagnosed and treated--if Amish sought outside professional help. Most times, however, their attitude is, "It's God's will."

"All English people are going to hell."

Wow! The stories former Amish tell me.

Over the past year, I’ve become acquainted with John, from an Old Order community. He and I had an email conversation where I asked him some questions. Then I requested permission to share his answers with you. What a precious young man. John not only agreed to let you in on his life, he sent some pictures! Want to know what he emailed?

Keep on reading to discover some amazing—perhaps disturbing—truths about the Amish. 

John, what's one thing you'd like outsiders [English] to know about your culture?
     The Amish are usually very honest in their everyday liand trustworthy in trade and work. There are some "sour apples." (Tweet this)
     The leaders themselves are under the same bondage as the Church they lead. If a leader loosens up too much, he will get shunned by other leaders and their churches, the same way we are shunned. 

What’s your home state?
     I was born and raised near Tomah, WI on a dairy farm. Dad also had a repair shop and sawmill. I learned to weld, make machinery parts, fix buggy wheels, etc.