Yes it is true they are Christians and according to them they feel it necessary to live separate from the rest of the population.  They feel they would be tainted if they were lumped in with the rest of us.  However, they really don't look down on us or the ones around here don't, they just don't partake of our lifestyle.  

I don't at all agree with their beliefs for being a Christian.  They believe that everything that happens in their lives is God's will whether it's good or bad and I guess when you believe and accept that it makes for a peaceful life.  The way I look at it is they live in bondage to their faith, they don't have the complete freedom I have as a Christian.  The clothes they wear makes them stand out from the rest of us and it is a expression of their faith. 

The Amish in my area have a bakery that I used to frequent before I found Curezone and I have also had business dealings with them so I guess that's why I see them in a different light. They are nothing but nice and they don't walk around all pious and humble, the thing I do notice is that they seem to be at peace with their lives and truly happy.  When you walk into their bakery they are laughing and joking between themselves but don't hesitate to interact and share the jokes with anyone who happens to be in the store.  Sometimes they are singing when I would go into the store and they just keep singing and they don't mind when visitors in the store join in with them, I've stood and watched this happen.  The Amish in my area do show respect for others not of their faith and don't try to quote scripture and convert others into their faith.  

I would agree with you, that kind of lifestyle would be really dull and boring for me.  I do see how simple and uncomplicated their lifestyle is and how happy they are.  Another thing that makes them stand out around here is that they all have beautiful, huge houses with lots of land that they raise cattle on, some have a dairy.  All their farms are extremely well maintained and are showplaces with very colorful flowers abounding around the houses.

Being in the building industry myself I've had many dealings with the Amish men that have a cabinet shop.  The thing I really respect about them is they are honest to a fault when doing business with someone.  I've used their cabinets many times in houses and they are the best quality of any around here and when they tell you something, you can take it to the bank so to speak and thats much more than I can say for the building trade in general.

Wow, after reading this through, it sounds like I'm defending them doesn't it?  Ha ha, I guess it's just that I interact with them and have gotten to know them somewhat.  They are a people of respect and integrity that are a pleasure to do business with.  I also appreciate the fact they don't try to push their beliefs on me but they respect the fact I don't agree with them about their faith.  Anyway, I wish more people in my area were as happy as the Amish are.

Willow