comes back (again)(re-communicated (very difficult)).įinds Jesus and leaves (again)(does not come back).

Then he leaves (again), comes back (again), this time officially becoming part of the church. The author writes for someone who is already somewhat familiar with his lifestyle, so there isn't much (if any) focus on the Amish lifestyle past his mid-teens, only vague mentions of buggies and horses (AGAIN - NOT WHAT THE TITLE IMPLIED AT ALL).Īnyway, when Ira Wagler turns seventeen and he sneaks out in the middle of the night.only to return after a few months of playing cowboy to his loving family. It's more centered on Ira's push-and-pull between his innate desire for freedom and the stifling Amish lifestyle starting at seventeen and continuing for several years. The book begins with a few childhood tales - explaining how Ira grew up and a few staples in the Canadian-Amish community (such as school, chores, etc) BUT UNLIKE THE TITLE IMPLIES - this book really doesn't focus on an Amish childhood. I enjoyed this book HOWEVER it also feels like a book where a lot is said but not much accomplished. Why had it all seemed so hard, so impossible before?So. By quietly showing me Christ’s love, my friend had led me to the Source of that love.I was amazed at how simple it was. He grapples most fervently with his faith - ranging from does he believe to how he should believe - and each time he winds back to the Amish lifestyle.that is, until he makes one final leap. The box of Amish life and culture might provide some protection, but it could never bring salvation.

He eventually returns out of loneliness and heartbreak, but soon is itching to leave again. As I would come to discover later in life, one shouldn't be condemned for simply craving freedom.When Ira turns seventeen, he steals away in the middle of the night as the first of several times he tries to leave the community. Throughout his childhood and early adulthood, he alternated between loving his family and lifestyle and wishing for something more. Even among the Amish, other Amish seem odd.Canadian Ira Wagler, is the ninth of eleven Amish children.Īmish, for the unfamiliar, are a group of traditionalist Christians who are well-known for their simple, plain living style.ĭepending on their individual communities - some swear off all technology while others have strict rules for how and when it can be applied.

Ira wagler author