What’s the Question?

The interview is going well, with conversation flowing at a relaxed pace. And then one of the interviewers asks, “How are you at multi-tasking?”

At warp speed my mind spins out a reel of the morning activities. Flipping pancakes while coaching my fourth grader on test strategies for her math exam. Assuring the six year old that we have Rice Krispies and reaching up to grab the box before he drops it on his head. Scooting the dog’s nose away from Grace’s precariously balanced bowl of overflowing cereal. Flipping pancakes again.

The reel continues to my performance of ironing last-minute wardrobe changes and washing faces with one hand while signing off on homework with the other. Encouraging the defiant four year old to crawl out from under the rocking chair and select an outfit. Pulling the dog off the sofa and depositing him, with fresh water, outside. Calling out a series of last-step reminders.

The final frame is of three pulled-together kids departing for school, assignments completed and all supplies intact. Only then could I focus on getting to the appointment on time, fully versed in the company’s background, with a Mapquest printout of the directions clutched in my hand.

“Multi-tasking is innate for me,” I say with a smile.

Later that evening, as I’m preparing dinner after taking the dog out and supervising homework while coaxing another offspring to get off the computer, I telephone a dear friend.

“In the interview they asked how I am at multi-tasking.” I managed to get out the words before we both burst into laughter.

I laugh until the tears flow. And it feels good.