I have a relative who is able to redecorate major portions of their home frequently. I always enjoy visiting to see the latest results. If you think the redo is done to keep up with the latest design trends, think again. The following timeless items are kept in mind:
• Buy what you love, as it is a part of your character; create your own style (we love Amish and juried handcrafts);
• Spend a little more for quality; you’ll have it a long time, and since you love it, you won’t grow tired of it (Amish heirloom quality furniture comes to mind);
• Be wary of trendy colors; decorate with the colors you love as they are part of what makes you unique;
• Stick to classic lines (Shaker and Mission styles are classic);
• Avoid buying everything at once; it’s more fun to shop around and add something just a bit different yet knowing it will blend with what you have because it fits your style; save for a favorite piece of art; collect interesting articles;
• Create balance between the elements, wood, stone, metal with fabric to soften the edges;
• And make the experience of buying a good one.
Even though this relative redoes the wallpaper and paint frequently, the basics remain. They are enhanced with one or two new items, not necessarily large pieces. A new lamp, wall hanging, candles, decorative florals, etc. Try it yourself. You’ll like it.
Carol
Monday, September 22, 2008
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Elections
The upcoming presidential elections are right in our faces these days.
The Amish face a different election, the selection of preachers and deacons in their church district. Selection practices differ among various churches, but they derive from the traditions of the first generation Anabaptists.
A brother, among other attributes, must be of strong personality to handle the responsibilities of this position. After it is announced at a church service, there is time for reflection and prayer for the brother who may be chosen, as he has a great burden to carry in this position. Ending days of consideration, there is an ordination service. Members pass an open door and whisper into the ear of a brother the name of the candidate they feel would be a good leader. This name is recorded. The candidates with the most votes come into the lot. This is a practice coming from the apostles choosing a replacement for Judas. Hymnals are produced with one of them containing a slip of paper with a Bible verse on it. The books are shuffled and each candidate chooses one. The brother who chooses the hymnal with the Bible verse in it, is then ordained for office. This office is held for life, unless the bearer of the office commits a serious misdemeanor, whereupon he is “brought to a stop in office”.
A standard voice for the Amish has never existed, meaning there is no main Amish church. Each church is autonomous. There have been gatherings of church leaders to discuss interpretation of the Bible and how to apply it to Amish life. Yet, each church decides for itself if it will follow.
Carol
The Amish face a different election, the selection of preachers and deacons in their church district. Selection practices differ among various churches, but they derive from the traditions of the first generation Anabaptists.
A brother, among other attributes, must be of strong personality to handle the responsibilities of this position. After it is announced at a church service, there is time for reflection and prayer for the brother who may be chosen, as he has a great burden to carry in this position. Ending days of consideration, there is an ordination service. Members pass an open door and whisper into the ear of a brother the name of the candidate they feel would be a good leader. This name is recorded. The candidates with the most votes come into the lot. This is a practice coming from the apostles choosing a replacement for Judas. Hymnals are produced with one of them containing a slip of paper with a Bible verse on it. The books are shuffled and each candidate chooses one. The brother who chooses the hymnal with the Bible verse in it, is then ordained for office. This office is held for life, unless the bearer of the office commits a serious misdemeanor, whereupon he is “brought to a stop in office”.
A standard voice for the Amish has never existed, meaning there is no main Amish church. Each church is autonomous. There have been gatherings of church leaders to discuss interpretation of the Bible and how to apply it to Amish life. Yet, each church decides for itself if it will follow.
Carol
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