Tilltales

         A DAY WITH
   THE HUTTERITES

      They live the simple and good life, my friends
the Hutterites, on their colony south of Calgary,
in Canada. Living off the land - away from the
city glitter, they are farmers and almost absolutely
self-sufficient, making their own clothes and
food. I have known my friends for 13 years,
and they finally allowed me (a rare permission)
to take some photos on their colony during
harvest time - showing the children in the fields
and at home. Their life-style was strange to me,
but these strangers have become friends, allowing
me to look into their daily routines, exchanging
thoughts and experiences. And at the end, giving
me the greatest gift - to learn more about myself.
    In their schools they teach an old form of
German. Of course, everything is based on the
bible. But they ask me: "Are you happier out there
in the world you live in?" I have to admit, I am not.
    Their happiness comes from the inside, without
outside forces. Their simple questions, their
no-nonsense response to life"s quest astonish me
every time I visit. They live their days in harmony
with the land and off the land - without radio, TV
or phones. My Hutterites still manage to think clearly.
That's something, if we are honest on the "outside"
isn't easy with all the distractions we have to digest.
    When I spend a day with my Hutterites, I always
feel refreshed in soul and mind. It's like going back
in time - remembering stories my grandmother
used to tell me, when hard times made people good -
and forced them to live and work together.
    Hutterite colonies are never larger than 120
persons. If they reach that size, they have to open
another additional location and colony.
Most women have more than five children.
   Hutterites make their own clothes, although they
do not reject technology as the Amish.
   Farmers on the Hutterite Colony have top notch
farm equipment. They are the main suppliers of
many major food chains in Canada.
What impresses me most - their contentment
with life as it is: Simple with a clear path in front
of them. Can we say that about the thoughts
we keep or the life we live?