An interesting Letter to the Editor of the Columbus (Ohio) DISPATCH points out a "beyond the media's eyes" work by the Amish. Here is that letter as Merrill Sheets, Delaware (Ohio) wrote for the January 26, 2010 issue:

"With all the news about the earthquake in Haiti and groups wanting to help a very large group of people has done this for a very long time.

"The Amish communities all across the United States, including the large one in Holmes County (Ohio), have annual auctions to help the poor of Haiti.

"Participants donate most of the sale items, although some are sold on consignment. The receipts are used to further expand their work in this country..

"Members of the Amish sector have visited Haiti with truckloads of donations. They have done this for many years and do to this day.

"Locally, Haitian relief missions already operate a school of 500 students with a staff of 12, half of which is from Berlin, Ohio.

"These people continue to help with their humanitarian efforts in their own quiet ways at home and abroad.

"I have had the privilege of knowing some of these fine people and the work they do.".

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During the past weeks since January 12, 2010, when Haiti was hit by the worst earthquake in 200 years, millions of dollars have been raised, celebrities in every field or career have gone to Haiti, famous doctors have taken leave of absences to assist that ravaged area. Just this past week a popular female actress whose name you would recognize immediately, was photographed as she talked with one of the victims expressing her personal concern. One can only wonder, had it not been for the Letter to the Editor alluded to above, how many would have been aware the Amish have ministered to that country for years? They don't work to be noticed. Were it not for incidental appearances in films, for example, most would not be aware how they do a "barn raising". The 1985 TV movie, WITNESS, starring Harrison Ford is probably one of the best biographical sketches in years that told how the Amish live and work together.

Picture an Amish man reading The Budget (their newspaper) about all the hubbub, accolades and activities over the Haitians after the terrible earthquake, quietly smiling, knowing "they have been there all along". We just don't read about it - and the Amish wouldn't see it on the TV because they don't use electricity. THE WORDWRIGHT