Moving from sunny California to the quiet rural landscapes of northern Indiana brought Jaclyn Shaw face-to-face with a way of life she had only glimpsed in passing. During the height of the pandemic, she and her husband returned to his hometown, where horse-drawn buggies shared the roads with modern cars. Jaclyn remembers her initial reactions vividly, often pointing out the Amish families with wide-eyed wonder and a mix of curiosity and confusion. It felt like stepping into a different era, one that sparked endless questions about how these communities thrived alongside the fast-paced world.
When their daughter arrived in June 2022, finding reliable childcare became a challenge in their small town. Daycare spots were scarce, so on the advice of her husband’s childhood friends, Jaclyn decided to hire help from within the local Amish community. That’s how 22-year-old Rosanna entered their lives as a nanny. At first, Jaclyn approached the arrangement with caution, unsure how to bridge the cultural gap and even hesitating when Rosanna suggested taking the baby for a stroll without a phone for quick check-ins.
On Rosanna’s very first day, something unexpected happened that completely shifted Jaclyn’s perspective. While the baby napped peacefully, Rosanna spotted an electric keyboard in the house and began playing beautiful hymns, filling the room with music and song. Jaclyn was stunned, having assumed Amish individuals shunned such modern devices entirely. It turned out Rosanna had recently gone through Rumspringa, a traditional period where young Amish explore the outside world before committing to their community’s rules.
@jaclynkshaw The Midwest taught me how to live without a village. I’ve had to get really comfortable with quiet, with missing people, with making peace in the in-between. I’m grateful for what I’ve learned here… and I think I’m finally ready for what’s next. #midwest #californiatransplant #hoosier #momsoftiktok #village ♬ growth – Gede Yudis
This eye-opening moment opened the door to many conversations. Rosanna shared stories from her Rumspringa experiences, which left Jaclyn laughing and admitting that the young woman had tried more adventurous things than she ever had. Over time, Jaclyn learned that Amish awareness of technology varies, especially in places like Indiana where practical needs influence daily life. Many are familiar with certain modern tools but choose to limit exposure to things like pop culture for spiritual reasons.
Jaclyn’s husband had grown up attending school alongside Amish children, who typically end formal education around the eighth grade to focus on community and family skills. This background helped ease some interactions, but Jaclyn still marveled at the contrasts. Rosanna explained how, in their region, harsh winters limit farming for much of the year, so many Amish men take jobs in nearby factories to support their families. Despite earning regular wages in these roles, they hold firmly to conservative values and avoid unnecessary spending.
What surprised Jaclyn most was realizing how financially secure many Amish families are. Their commitment to simple living means expenses stay low, with money going toward essentials rather than luxuries. Homes remain modest, clothing is handmade and practical, and entertainment comes from family gatherings rather than screens or outings. This frugal approach naturally builds savings over generations, creating a quiet kind of wealth rooted in contentment and community support.
@jaclynkshaw Replying to @Lori ♬ original sound – Jaclyn Shaw
During the pandemic, Jaclyn noticed the Amish continued their routines with minimal disruption, focusing on health precautions without overhauling their traditions. They emphasized respect, caring for the vulnerable, and carrying on with daily responsibilities. Through her friendship with Rosanna, Jaclyn grew to appreciate this peaceful, intentional mindset that prioritizes family, faith, and helping one another. It challenged her own assumptions and highlighted the beauty in choosing simplicity amid a complex world.
Jaclyn’s experience shows how unexpected connections can reveal profound lessons about different paths to fulfillment. The bond with Rosanna not only provided excellent care for her daughter but also enriched her understanding of resilience and gratitude. Stories like these remind us that stepping outside our comfort zones often leads to the most rewarding discoveries. What aspects of Amish life intrigue you most, or have you had similar cross-cultural experiences—share your thoughts in the comments.
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