|

Ira Wagler, running around

I like to check in at Ira Wagler’s blog from time to time.  Always nice writing.  Ira grew up Amish in Canada and Iowa, and thus can offer a viewpoint that non-Amish people, like yours truly, cannot.

In a recent post, Ira shares his personal take on Rumspringa.  He comes out against some popular perceptions of the ‘running around’ time and explains how it plays out in a few different Amish communities.

Ira also describes his own youth experience, and what it was like to leave Amish society behind.  Here’s an excerpt:

The first few times I left, I had every intention of returning and settling down. It wasn’t even a question in my mind. Just a year or two, a taste of the outside, then I’d be content to live out my days in the Amish faith where I was born. Calm and settled in the simple life.Marry. Raise a family. Perhaps write some apologetics, as my father did. Watch my children grow.

But it didn’t happen. In fact, it pretty much went just like the preachers always claimed it would. Once the “world” gets its grip on you, the probability of return recedes into impossibility. One can weep and wail and repent at leisure, but it will be too late.  You can’t go back.

Click to read the rest of Ira Wagler’s story of running around and choosing life in the English world.

Get the Amish in your inbox

Join 15,000 email subscribers. No spam. 100% free

    Similar Posts

    Leave a Reply to nadine froderman Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    3 Comments

    1. Pingback: Ira Wagler today on Amish Wisdom | Amish America
    2. nadine froderman

      Growing Up Amish

      I recently read your book, Growing Up Amish and enjoyed it thoroughly.I am a book merchandiser and I can tell you that the book has been quite a good seller at the Wal-mart in which I work.
      I understand the immense pull of one’s roots, even though in your heart you know you can’t abide by the rules set upon you. I am glad that you found peace among the Mennonite community. They, as a whole, have the most giving hearts I’ve ever known.
      Blessings.

    3. maria rockhill

      Enjoyed your book very much as an honest, eye-opening, gripping llook at what it really means to leave the Amish church. Congratulations on the success of your book and hope it will not be your last. Great work.