Lessons from an Amish Buggy

Can you imagine life without your phone or electricity? How about without a car for transportation? I can’t imagine it either which is why the Amish intrigue me so much.

We live in an area where it is not uncommon to see an Amish buggy. So, this summer when some family came in from Utah to visit, we went on an Amish buggy ride. The buggy ride ended up being more fun than I thought. God also used it to teach me to slow down and pay attention.

Slow Down

As we rode along in the buggy, I found myself a bit restless. I am so used to the go-go mentality that it was really hard for me to go that slow. In my mind, we should have arrived at our destination already. God spoke into my heart and said “Slow down. You have been so busy and on the go. I want you to rest.” I felt God’s peace wash over me and felt myself slowing down. My body visibly relaxed and I started to really enjoy slowing down.

Pay Attention

Our Amish friend took us to so many different places on our buggy ride. In the process, I felt God also encourage me to also pay attention. There was so much beauty all around me. The beauty that I would have missed had I not slowed down.

After slowing down, the next step is to pay attention. Not only did I see God’s amazing creation through new eyes, I also was able to connect with my oldest daughter more. It was fun to hear her observations of the buggy ride.

Intentional

Who would have thought a buggy ride could change me so much? Since that ride, I have been trying to be more intentional about slowing down and paying attention. It’s hard to do in our fast-paced world.

How about you? When is the last time you slowed down and really paid attention? What is one thing you can do today to slow down and pay attention to your husband, kids and/or family members? Please comment below and share your thoughts.