Podcast Summary: followHIM – "The Parable of the Blue Microwave"

Episode Details:

• Title: The Parable of the Blue Microwave • followHIM Favorites • April 21 - 27 • Come Follow Me
• Hosts: Hank Smith & John Bytheway
• Release Date: April 17, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of followHIM, hosts Hank Smith and John Bytheway delve into a personal and humorous story shared by Hank, illustrating a valuable lesson on pride and humility. The discussion is anchored around sections 37 through 40 of the Come, Follow Me lesson, providing listeners with relatable insights to enhance their weekly studies.

The Story of the Blue Microwave

Moving Challenges (00:02 - 01:07)

Hank begins by recounting a significant move his family undertook from West Jordan, Utah, to Mapleton, Utah. Balancing the demands of relocating with a growing family of five children, Hank highlights the inherent stress and chaos that accompanies such transitions.

Hank: "I'm just trying to get everybody on board here... My life was hard, so my children wanted to eat, and they said, can we get pizza? I said, no, we're not going to get pizza."
(00:02)

The Microwave Misunderstanding (01:07 - 11:35)

Amidst the moving chaos, a seemingly minor disagreement over household appliances escalates into a memorable incident. Hank describes a dispute with his wife, Sarah, over the color and functionality of their microwave.

• Initial Conflict: Sarah requests a new microwave to match their stainless steel appliances, while Hank prioritizes functionality over aesthetics.

  Hank: "I don't think I should have to buy... it's supposed to be stainless steel. But it's blue."
  (03:09)

• The Compromise: Reluctantly, Hank agrees to purchase a new microwave. The ordeal continues as Sarah reveals the new microwave is indeed blue, contrary to the box labeling it as stainless steel.

  Hank: "I think my daughter was saying, dad, they're laughing at you. I'm like, at us. They're laughing at us."
  (09:38)

• Store Revelation: At the store, the supervisor identifies that the microwave came with a blue cellophane wrap, which Hank had overlooked. The realization leads to laughter from both the store staff and their children.

  Hank: "We still talk about it today. It has been a long time. I think it's been 15 years since that happened."
  (09:35)

Reflection and Lesson (11:14 - 13:44)

Hank connects this personal anecdote to Doctrine & Covenants Section 38, emphasizing the importance of being aware of pride. He acknowledges his oversight and the valuable lesson learned through this humorous yet humbling experience.

Hank: "With the Lord saying, hey, you're going to move. This is going to be really hard. But remember, if you're not one you are not mine. And beware of pride."
(12:32)

John: "Your telling this story shows that you were aware of pride. And because now you're sharing it with."
(13:18)

Hank concludes by appreciating the shared experience with Sarah, reinforcing the strength of their relationship despite the minor conflicts.

Hank: "Today I can go upstairs and I can see the matching appliances."
(13:24)

John: "Not only do they work, but they match."
(13:35)

Lessons and Insights

1. Humility Over Pride:

   • Hank’s story underscores the significance of humility in personal relationships. Recognizing and admitting mistakes fosters stronger bonds and personal growth.

2. Effective Communication:

   • The misunderstanding over the microwave’s color highlights the need for clear communication, especially in stressful situations like moving.

3. Prioritizing Functionality:

   • The debate between Hank and Sarah serves as a reminder to prioritize functionality over aesthetics, ensuring that practical needs are met before addressing superficial preferences.

4. Shared Laughter and Bonding:

   • The incident becomes a cherished family memory, demonstrating how shared laughter can turn challenging moments into lasting bonds.

Notable Quotes

• Hank on Recognizing Own Faults:

  "I hesitated, John, to tell you this story because it is going to be a display of my own humanness."
  (00:02)

• Hank on Moving Stress:

  "Moving is stressful. You're leaving this house, you're trying to get that house all cleaned out and ready..."
  (01:07)

• Reflection on Pride:

  "In Section 38, the Lord says, beware of pride."
  (07:48)

• Realization and Growth:

  "I know what I said. Just go over there. I didn't know what to say, John."
  (09:38)

Conclusion

In "The Parable of the Blue Microwave," Hank Smith shares a relatable and humorous story that offers profound lessons on humility, communication, and prioritizing what truly matters. By connecting personal experiences with scriptural teachings, Hank and John provide listeners with meaningful insights to enrich their Come, Follow Me studies. This episode serves as a testament to the value of self-awareness and the strength found in familial bonds.

Join Hank and John every Wednesday morning for more engaging and educational discussions to enhance your Come, Follow Me lessons.