Podcast Summary: followHIM Favorites – "Where Do I Belong?" (D&C 109 & 110; The Kirtland Temple)
Hosts: Hank Smith & John Bytheway
Release Date: September 25, 2025

Episode Overview

In this FollowHIM Favorites mini-episode, hosts Hank Smith and John Bytheway explore the theme "Where Do I Belong?" by sharing a real-life story connected to the Doctrine and Covenants Sections 109 and 110—focusing on the Kirtland Temple, its dedicatory prayer, and the appearance of the Savior. The discussion centers on how the temple can offer spiritual refuge and inspiration, especially when faced with difficult choices about standards and belonging.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

The Blessings of the Temple (00:15)

• John Bytheway opens with a perspective on how the temple (referencing D&C 109: The Dedicatory Prayer, and D&C 110: The Appearance of the Savior) can serve as a spiritual anchor amidst life's choices.
• He references Sister Ardeth Capp (former Young Women's General President) and recounts a story told by her sister, Sharon Greene Larson (Young Women General Presidency).

Heather’s Story: Choosing Standards Over Popularity (00:32-02:51)

• Sharon Larson tells of a girl ("Heather"—a pseudonym), who attends a party where circumstances become uncomfortable as "friends started disappearing into darkened rooms."
• Heather realizes, "'I had to make a choice, either these people or my standards. I couldn't have both.'" (John Bytheway quoting Sharon Greene Larson, 01:22)
• She decides to call her mom to come pick her up, a moment of vulnerability and potential embarrassment.
• Crucial Moment: While waiting by the window for her mom, Heather sees the temple “gleaming on the hillside,” which confirms her difficult choice:
  • "She said this was the Lord saying to Heather, you're making the right decision, Hank." (John Bytheway, 01:57)
  • John humorously notes that the same impact wouldn’t be made by a view of the America First Credit Union ("I don't think she's going, you know, yeah, I should get a home equity loan…," 02:09).
• The story illustrates Heavenly reassurance found through the temple and standing by one’s standards.

The Temple as Spiritual Destination (02:20-02:51)

• The temple is described not just as a location but as a symbol of where one wants life to lead.
  • "She had that feeling, that's my destination. That's where I want to end up. That's what I want life to mean." (John Bytheway, 02:17)
• John references counsel from Elder M. Russell Ballard:
  • "If you can't go to the temple, just go to the grounds. If you can't go in one day, just go to the grounds and walk around and feel the spirit of that place." (John Bytheway, 02:33)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On choosing the Spirit over social acceptance:
  • "Sometimes you have to go home without friends, but with the Holy Ghost." – Hank Smith (02:51)
  • "You don't want to go home with friends without the Holy Ghost." – Hank Smith (02:59)
• On prioritizing the right companion:
  • "The Holy Ghost is the best friend in the world. And if your best friend leaves the party, go, go with him." – John Bytheway (03:03)
• Reaffirmation of Heather’s choice:
  • "That moment, she's probably thinking, maybe I'm overdoing this. And then to see the temple [out the window]: 'No, I'm good.'" – Hank Smith (03:09)
  • "Nope. Nope. I'm good. Mom, come get me. Awesome." – John Bytheway (03:16)
• Lighthearted close:
  • "Come get me and take me out for ice cream." – Hank Smith (03:20)

Timestamps for Key Segments

• 00:03 – Opening & Context: Introduction to D&C 109 and 110, and the focus on the temple.
• 00:32 – Heather's Story: Introduction and main narrative of Heather’s party experience.
• 01:57 – The Temple on the Hill: The turning point—Heather sees the temple, affirming her choice.
• 02:33 – Elder Ballard’s Counsel: Encouragement to seek the temple (even just the grounds) when possible.
• 02:51 – Choosing the Holy Ghost: Reflections on companionship of the Spirit.
• 03:09 – Affirmation of Good Choices: Hosts discuss the confirmation Heather receives.
• 03:20 – Lighthearted Exit: Wishing for ice cream as a reward for good choices.

Tone & Style

The episode maintains the friendly, supportive tone characteristic of Hank Smith and John Bytheway. They mix humor with heartfelt spiritual counsel, making the discussion accessible for listeners of all ages and stages of faith development.

Conclusion

This mini-episode of followHIM Favorites offers a concise, memorable lesson about finding belonging in the right places—illustrated through a relatable and uplifting story. The hosts connect the historical context of the Kirtland Temple with modern, everyday decision-making, encouraging listeners to prioritize the companionship of the Holy Ghost and the spiritual significance of the temple when navigating challenges to personal standards and belonging.