Don t they believe in having fun?
Yes! First we work, then we play ! These people are serious about life, and practice an austere and disciplined lifestyle. That does not generally make them unpleasant or grim. It does mean that grown-ups, especially, may be cautious about indulging too much time in play. For most of them, work is honorable, recreation is somewhat suspect, and guilt rises up when they think they re having too much fun. They socialize at the auctions, go to yard sales. Family reunions are summer highlights, Sunday afternoons are meant for calling on friends, neighbors, and family. For many Old Order Amish, the gatherings are singings, barn games and hoedowns. In the more traditional homes, books are at a premium. There are few novels and almost no modern nonfiction. The Bible is there, some Bible storybooks for children, and most likely the Martyrs Mirror, Mannon Simons writings, and a few prayer and inspirational books. Old Order groups often subscribe to the local newspaper and frequently to The Budge
