Problem
The microwave was not working. I suspected the machine was all right. I hoped so. I had done something wrong.This had happened once before. Last time I had accidentally pressed the delay timer on one of the household appliances, maybe just knocked it when cleaning.
It often happens that you can't get a machine to start. Even with a piece of equipment you know well. Especially if it's something you have used for a long time. You might have had it away for the season, not used it when you were living elsewhere.
Solution - Email A Firend
Eventually, I emailed a family member.
The Internet
They looked up the machine online. I knew they would find either the same model or something similar. They replied:
Microwave Instructions
To use the microwave, punch the highest power setting (these are at the top, ordered from lowest to highest with little symbols) then punch say 30 for 30 seconds, then punch On, which is at the bottom (Off is far left next to the door release, On is to the right). You can interrupt cooking by opening/closing the door, or cancel it at any time using Off.
If you get in a muddle during programming, Off cancels everything so you can start again.
Keeping Instructions
I sent the email to myself with a new heading Microwave instruction so if I forget again in several months time I shall be able to find the instructions quickly.
Why Written Instructions Are Useful
I also find that if I ask for directions, a person will tell me. If I want clarification five minutes later, or months late, they are likely to reply, "I told you before."
This demoralises me. Why do they get cross? Is it because they think I'm stupid?
Teacher's Frustration
No. It's not about me, but how they think my asking again reflects on them. I know how they feel, because they tell me, "You're not listening to me."
Verbal Versus Written Reminders
Much better to have the instructions sent by email. That way I can look at the instructions again whenever I need help.
Phone A Friend
I then phoned another family member to announce that the problem had been solved. Nothing wrong with the microwave. I thought, by telling them, I would have another backup if it ever goes wrong again. They said:
Process of Elimination
I always press all the buttons in turn, on any equipment which won't work. I had thought of that and tried it.
The basic problem is, the machine has instructions, but I cannot understand the symbols.
Labels
I decided to write 'on' and 'off' on small white labels and stick them on the microwave. That saves me having to stop and think.
What Went Wrong?
I noticed two things which fooled me. Firstly, the off button is a downward arrow which suggested to me it meant turn on. Secondly, the off button is on the left. I had been reading all day. Therefore my instinct was not to start on the right, using my right hand, but to start on the left, like somebody reading.
I hope this helps you sort out your problems.
Author
Angela Lansbury, author of How To Get Out Of The Mess You're In.
