The Hawaiian Quilt (42 page)

Quilts found on the mainland that are the most similar to Hawaiian quilts are appliquéd in the Pennsylvania Dutch tradition. Their quilts often consist of a central medallion appliqué that resembles the Hawaiian technique and repeats the same floral design in four large blocks. The Hawaiian women designed their quilts based on floral surroundings, legends, and innermost feelings of love. Every quilt had a purpose, and no two quilts were alike.

1.   For some time, Mandy had a desire to visit Hawaii. Her boyfriend, Gideon, wanted her to stay but gave his blessing so she could pursue her dream. Have you ever wanted to do something so badly you didn’t consider another person’s feelings? Like Gideon, have you ever given someone your blessing, even though you felt what they were doing was wrong?

2.   On the cruise ship, someone mistook Mandy and her Amish friends for nuns. Have you ever assumed something about a person based on their outer appearance?

3.   Mandy was afraid of water and was unable to swim, yet she set her fears aside to go on the cruise to Hawaii. Have you ever wanted to do something so much you were able to set your fears aside in order to pursue your goal? Or have you ever held someone back from doing what they wanted, because of your own fears?

4.   When Mandy and Ellen became stranded on Kauai, a caring Hawaiian couple took them in. Would you be willing to take in strangers at a moment’s notice and make them feel welcome? If you have entertained strangers, how did it all work out?

5.   Since Mandy’s and Ellen’s luggage was left on the ship, they only had the dresses they were wearing when they became stranded. Luana suggested they go shopping for a modest-looking Hawaiian dress. Mandy was content to accept the style of clothing on Kauai, but dressing that way made Ellen feel uncomfortable. How do you feel when you’re subjected to uncomfortable situations? Do you conform or stay with what you believe is appropriate for you? Why?

6.   When Makaio was injured, should Mandy and Ellen have agreed to stay on Kauai longer to help at the B&B, or would it have been better if they’d returned home right away?

7.   After Barbara and Sadie returned to Indiana without their two Amish friends, Barbara found herself drawn to Mandy’s boyfriend, Gideon. She did not act upon her feelings and kept them to herself. What would have happened if she had let him know how she felt? Have you ever been in a similar situation? If so, how did you respond?

8.   Ellen realized Mandy was captivated by Hawaii and a certain young English man, so she intervened without Mandy’s knowledge. Is there ever a time we should intervene if we feel someone we know is about to make a wrong decision that could change the course of their life? Should Ellen have gone to Mandy and discussed her feelings instead of going behind her back and attempting to manipulate the situation?

9.   Even though Luana had lost a sentimental quilt, she didn’t let it consume her. She moved on with a positive attitude. Have you ever lost something that had either monetary or sentimental value? What was the item, and how did you cope with the loss?

10. When Mandy returned home from Hawaii, Gideon saw a change in her. It was almost as though they were strangers, and he didn’t know how to get back what they’d once had. Life is full of changes, some good and some bad. How do you deal with a friend or loved one who has changed?

11. Gideon’s mother, Peggy, was unsure of him choosing Mandy for a wife. However, instead of meddling, she prayed about it, allowing God to work things out for her son. What happens when we allow God to work in our lives, rather than taking matters into our own hands?

12. Mandy’s desire to live a different life from the one she’d always known was hard for her family and friends to accept. If you had a child who wanted to serve God in a different church than the one in which they were raised, how would you respond?

13. Did you learn anything new about the Amish by reading this story? If so, what was it?

14. Were there any Bible verses mentioned in this story that spoke to your heart? If so, what were they, and how did they bolster your faith?

New York Times
bestselling, award-winning author
Wanda E. Brunstetter
is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. Wanda’s ancestors were part of the Anabaptist faith, and her novels are based on personal research intended to accurately portray the Amish way of life. Her books are well-read and trusted by many Amish, who credit her for giving readers a deeper understanding of the people and their customs. When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and close family ties.

Wanda enjoys photography, ventriloquism, gardening, bird-watching, beachcombing, and spending time with her family. She and her husband, Richard, have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

To learn more about Wanda, visit her website at
www.wandabrunstetter.com
.

Jean Brunstetter
became fascinated with the Amish when she first went to Pennsylvania to visit her father-in-law’s family. Since that time, Jean has become friends with several Amish families and enjoys writing about their way of life. She also likes to put some of the simple practices followed by the Amish into her daily routine. Jean lives in Washington State with her husband, Richard Jr., and their three children, but takes every opportunity to visit Amish communities in several states. In addition to writing, Jean enjoys boating, gardening, and spending time on the beach.