Depress_Mode@lemmy.world 3 days ago
The Amish tend to be pretty insular communities that have had the same extended families for generations, so being truly accepted might take a few years. Most “English” people who join tend to return to ordinary life within that time after the charm of the rustic lifestyle wears off. You’d also be required to learn Pennsylvania Dutch, as well as abide by all the other community rules, of course. Some Mennonite communities live pretty similar lifestyles, but are a little more relaxed in terms of strictness, so you may find them more forgiving, especially if it’s to continue studies.
SolidShake@lemmy.world 3 days ago
Dang you make it sound like some kind of religious cult.
Depress_Mode@lemmy.world 3 days ago
😳
For real though, they aren’t unlike many other fundamentalist sects across different religions, so one going in should expect pretty strict adherence to their interpretation of biblical doctrine. That’s one of the things they’re famous for, besides the no technology, raising barns, and building quality wooden furniture. Nowadays, there’s a bit of flexibility regarding technology depending on which Amish community you live in, especially if it’s to promote an Amish business, but there are still limits. All that being said, most newcomers who leave do cite the religious aspects as growing tiresome over time.
But it’s not like the Amish are the kind of people who won’t let you leave or anything, they’re actually pretty big on the idea that one has to want to be a part of the Amish church and that it can’t be forced on anyone; they even have that Rumspringa thing were kids are sent out into modern society at 16 until they decide whether they want to formally join the church or not. They don’t believe in evangelism of any kind. I can’t claim to be any kind of expert, though, I’ve just had a personal fascination with them for awhile.
I didn’t intend for my first comment to come off that way, but I believe everything I’ve said is factual.