I am “on the couch” in conversation with Saloma Fisher who lived until age 32 in a conservative Amish community; we covered stuff that shocked me right out of my own misconceptions. Yes, there are the typical things many are aware of…no cars, modern conveniences, outside influences, music, or TV. BUT, the drinking, partying and “bed courting” that begins for some Amish youth around age 16? Lesser known.

Saloma and I also talk about what being ex-communicated from your family and community feels like along with how she started over as a single parent with an 8th grade education and no knowledge of how to pay bills, take a job, and so on.

Saloma loves deeply and is a woman of incredible faith despite being told she was going to “hell” in a community where you can only hope to be good enough through your works to merit heaven.

She helps me understand the coexistence of being oppressed and living fearfully in a prescribed role AND feeling safe and secure in a loving community and faith practice. While she does not speak for every person who identifies as Amish - her experience is illuminating and provides incredible hope to any person who dreams for bigger things and is determined to have a sense of control in their own life.

Saloma Fisher BIO: I was born and raised in NW Pennsylvania in an Amish culture. I am the proud mom of 6 kids, 5 girls and 1 boy, and a grandma to 2 precious grandchildren with a 3rd on the way! I am an entrepreneur and a visionary at heart and founded Cup of Hope Ministries - a nonprofit organization that helps teen and single moms locally. I am also in the process of opening Cup of Hope Cafe - a small coffee shop and bakery where 10% of the profits flow into our nonprofit to benefit moms directly.

I love all things coffee, friends and community. And most of all, Jesus, the one who set me free from bondage and has given me a love for others.

Facebook: https//facebook.com/cupofhopeministry

Website: www.cupofhopeministry.com

About Jen Oliver:

I pursue and create environments where we converse on the REAL stuff that changes us. I’m designed to bring others on my personal journey with honest admissions to help us all transform - that’s my sweetspot and I speak, lead, and write from that space.

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