Author: Santosh Kumar Biswa, Sr. Teacher, Damphu CS, Tsirang, Bhutan
The Amish
community is known for its distinct lifestyle and religious beliefs, which
emphasize simplicity, humility, and separation from modern society (Nolt,
2016). One intriguing aspect of Amish culture is the tradition of Rumspringa, a
period during adolescence when Amish youth are given the freedom to explore the
outside world and make choices about their future (Kraybill, 2001). This paper
explores personal feelings regarding Rumspringa, examines the moral dilemmas
faced by Amish teens, and discusses educational implications for students
facing similar moral decisions within their own families and communities.
Feelings Regarding Rumspringa
During Rumspringa,
Amish adolescents go through a variety of emotions that deeply influence their
development and moral choices. These emotions, such as excitement, anxiety,
confusion, and pressure, play a significant role in shaping their behaviours
and decisions during this period (Stevick, 2014). The excitement stems from the
newfound freedom and possibilities that Rumspringa offers, allowing them to
break free from the constraints of their traditional Amish lifestyle (Kraybill,
2001). An example is Sarah in the film Expecting Amish
2014 (Warner, 2017), who eagerly embraces her autonomy and engages in
previously restricted activities. However, alongside the excitement, there is
anxiety caused by the weight of making life-altering decisions and navigating
the unfamiliar outside world (Hurst & McConnell, 2010). Jacob in the film Expecting
Amish 2014 (Warner, 2017) experiences anxiety as he struggles between his
loyalty to the Amish community and his desire for personal freedom. Confusion
arises as Amish teens grapple with conflicting values and ideologies, challenging
their upbringing (Stevick, 2014). Hannah in the film Expecting Amish 2014
(Warner, 2017) represents this confusion as she tries to reconcile her Amish
background with her curiosity about the outside world, leading her to question
her beliefs and values. Moreover, the pressure to make significant decisions
during Rumspringa is immense, as these choices will shape their entire lives
(Kraybill, 2001). Jonathan in the film Expecting Amish 2014 (Warner, 2017) feels
the weight of responsibility to uphold his family's reputation and community
expectations, impacting his decision-making process.
Amish Teens' Moral Dilemma - Feelings on
Dilemma to Join Amish Church
The decision to
join the Amish church is a deeply personal and consequential one for Amish teenagers,
with a wide range of emotions influencing their behaviours and choices. This
decision often triggers an identity crisis as they grapple with their sense of
self and where they belong. Sarah in the film Expecting Amish 2014 (Warner,
2017) undergoes this crisis as she weighs her desire for personal freedom and
self-expression against her Amish identity. Fear of isolation is another
emotion experienced by Amish teens, as they consider the potential loss of
connections with friends and loved ones outside the Amish community. Jacob in
the film Expecting Amish 2014 (Warner, 2017) faces this fear, attached to his
Rumspringa experiences and relationships outside the community. Pressure from
family and the Amish community also plays a significant role, as Amish teens
feel obligated to uphold their family's reputation and meet community
expectations. Jonathan, for example, encounters immense pressure to join the
Amish church, creating a conflict between meeting expectations and following
his desires. However, the decision to join the Amish church also fulfils a deep
yearning for belonging. Amish teenagers seek connection to their community and
the security provided by a shared belief system. Hannah in the film Expecting
Amish 2014 (Warner, 2017) values this sense of belonging, embracing the
tight-knit community, purpose, and stability that the Amish church offers.
These complex emotions significantly shape the behaviours and choices of Amish
teenagers considering joining the Amish church. Examining the experiences of
the characters in the film Expecting Amish 2014 (Warner, 2017) provides insight
into the emotional struggles and considerations they face as they navigate this
crucial decision in their lives.
Educational Implications:
The exploration of
feelings associated with the decision to join the Amish church has important
educational implications (Nolt, 2016). Educators can utilize the experiences of
Amish teenagers to cultivate cultural understanding among students and foster
empathy and respect for diverse belief systems (Elder & Miller, 2014). This
exploration also encourages critical thinking as students reflect on their own
values, beliefs, and personal identity (Kraybill, 2001). Addressing the
emotional challenges faced by Amish teenagers supports their well-being and
creates a classroom environment conducive to open discussions about emotions,
identity, and personal choices (Stevick, 2014). The topic of joining the Amish
church can spark meaningful dialogue about culture, religion, and personal
choices, promoting tolerance and acceptance (Hurst & McConnell, 2010).
Encouraging self-reflection and addressing the complexities of personal
identity within a cultural context helps students develop self-awareness and
promotes a sense of belonging for all students (Cates, 2014).
Conclusion
Rumspringa
presents a unique moral journey for Amish teens, offering both opportunities
for personal growth and significant challenges. The Amish tradition sheds light
on the complexities of moral decision-making and the importance of individual
autonomy within the context of communal values. By drawing lessons from the
Amish experience, educators can create inclusive learning environments that
support students.
References
Hurst,
C. E., & McConnell, D. L. (2010). An Amish Paradox: Diversity and Change
in the World's Largest Amish Community. Johns Hopkins University Press.
https://my.uopeople.edu/course/view.php?id=5434
Kraybill,
D. B. (2001). The Riddle of Amish Culture. Johns Hopkins University
Press. https://my.uopeople.edu/course/view.php?id=5434
Stevick, R. A. (2014). Growing up
Amish: The Rumspringa Years. Johns Hopkins University Press.
https://my.uopeople.edu/course/view.php?id=5434
Warner,
J. (2017). Expecting Amish 2014. YouTube.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQbSvtGwIJs
No comments:
Post a Comment