“But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you—see that you also excel in this grace of giving” (2 Corinthians 8:7 NIV).
A True Measure of Happiness, Though Gnarled and Gray
From earliest childhood, I remember Mr. Swanson as gnarled and gray. He wore an old felt hat that he hung on a nail before Sunday worship began. He and Mrs. Swanson lived in a small white house next to our country church. They walked to every service as long as their health permitted. With limited income and no car, they had little opportunity for community contact outside the church. As a result, they relied on others for trips to the grocery, drugstore, and doctor — anywhere they couldn’t walk.
After Mrs. Swanson became bedfast, Mr. Swanson cared for her. He continued his church attendance when possible. Usually, before Sunday evening services, at least one or two families stopped by their house. If the whole family didn’t go, young people frequently requested permission for a quick visit before the church bell rang.
Mrs. Swanson sat propped up in bed in their living room. Mr. Swanson sat in a nearby chair. Occasionally someone played the guitar and sang. Both smiled, and Mr. Swanson patted his foot in time with the music. If the song happened to be a favorite or particularly lively, he slapped his knees and reared his head back in laughter. He roared the first time he heard Elvis’s “Hound Dog.” They also loved watching the antics of youngsters running and playing outside, easily seen from the window beside Mrs. Swanson’s bed.
Sharing Their Happiness
Despite all their limitations, Mr. Swanson maintained a positive attitude. He was probably one of the best-known people around. He certainly endeared himself to all the children. At almost every church service he carried a small brown sack of gum in his pocket. After the service ended, he began his distribution. Bubble gum was our favorite. If he didn’t have enough for every child, he kept the sack hidden. When the coast appeared clear, he sneaked what he had to a fortunate two or three. Although everyone knew his pattern, no one betrayed his confidence. He never wanted to hurt anyone’s feelings, and certainly, no one wanted to hurt his.
During a Sunday evening church training class as pre-teens, we received a written assignment: Complete the sentence, “When I am seventy-five…” From the quietest to the rowdiest, the impact of this one couple held constant. Nearly every response echoed mine, “I hope I’m as happy as Mr. and Mrs. Swanson.” Despite meager finances, few possessions, poor health, frequent dependence on others, and isolation from much of the outside world, they had something real — something special. And we wanted it.
They could offer little of a material nature, but they freely gave themselves, their love, and Mr. Swanson’s gum. In the process, we saw a reflection of Jesus’ love and sacrifice.
The Secret for a True Measure of Happiness
Years later, I read a statement that helped me better understand their secret. I don’t know who wrote “The measure of our happiness is the gift of ourselves which we give to others,” but it always makes me think of Mr. Swanson, gnarled and gray, gentle and giving.
This is beautiful! I, too, have known special people like that couple. I thank God for wonderful folks who show happiness in every moment.
Thank you, Melissa. I’m so grateful for such powerful examples of joy.
What a lovely story and wonderful memories! Thank you for sharing!
Thank you, Edwina. These are some of my favorite childhood memories. The Swansons challenged us to allow God to work through us, whatever our circumstances.