Time on Task: A Lesson from My Ra Ra (Grandmother)

Don't ask me how the name came to be. All I know is that since I was able to make noise, I have referred to my grandmother as, Ra Ra. My name for her may be unique among the Grandmas, Grannies and Nannas of the world, but a nickname matters little in contrast to what she is and what she means to me.

Most importantly, my Ra Ra is love. She has been there for me in ways that no one else has. While not the same as either of my parents, I would equate her vested interest in me to theirs without hesitation. But she is also a woman of tremendous poise, grace, intelligence, faith, compassion and confidence beyond measure. She is a huge inspiration whom I admire and respect very much.

I am writing about her today because, yesterday, I walked into my new office for the first time since accepting my new employers offer. I met my coworkers, received paper work, a new computer, typical first day welcome materials, gifts and well wishes, but as I sat down at my desk and took in what my professional future will be for possibly many years to come, I could not help saying to myself the phrase, "time on task."

"Time on task" can be interpreted simply as 'focus' or a less commanding variation of "pay attention," but this phrase and the story behind it mean a lot more to me.

When I was young, perhaps as early as four years old, I would spend extended visits with my grandparents at their home in southern Virginia. It is with my Ra Ra that I gained a passion for reading; for learning in ways that no teacher I have ever been formally educated by has ever been able to replicate. Instead of demanding my attention or forcing a lesson upon me, "time on task" became a repetitive tool of mental manipulation that has stuck with me ever since. I remember her saying this phrase in improvised songs, simple rhymes and even while cleaning, being just audible enough for me to hear, "time on task, time on task, time on task." I did not understand at the time why she was being so redundant, but when in my final semester in college, taking 27 credit hours so that I could be eligible for graduation, I realized what she had instilled in me.

Now, as an adult, the importance of effective time management is vital to my continued success, yet the best lesson I have ever received on maintaining my personal productivity remains that simple phrase, "time on task."

I love this woman. Not just for what she has taught me but for who she is and has been in my life.

Be grateful for your grandparents. If you are so fortunate to still have your grandparents around, give them your time and your consideration. You may learn something, perhaps even discover something about yourself and your family's history. Who knows? I do know that if nothing else, you can share in love, from one generation to another.