Carpe diem. As I'm sure most of you know, this catchy little Latin phrase means seize the day. But what exactly does that mean? Is it propaganda for the support of daylight savings time? Are we expected to chase the dawn around the globe in search of perpetual sun? To answer this question, it's best to consult the subjects of this post.
Phineas and Ferb fill each day of summer with crazy inventions and impossible journeys, and they don't waste a second sitting around. In one episode, the boys encounter Candace's future children, only to find them reclining under a tree, doing nothing. Phineas then goes on to explain that the possibilities for each day are endless. For example, their day could be filled with "Crossing the tundra, or building a rollercoaster, skiing down a mountain of beans, devising a system for remembering everything, or synchronizing submarines, racing chariots, taming tiger sharks, constructing a portal to Mars, building a time machine, stretching a rubber tree, or wailing away on guitars!" The first lesson we learn from Phineas and Ferb is that each day is what you make it, and with the right amount of initiative, not even the sky's the limit.
And these brothers don't just make the most of each day, but they bring a smile to others' faces while doing it. Instead of just doing projects built for two, Phineas and Ferb come up with ideas that are best enjoyed with friends. They make backyard beaches, giant water slides, go on adventures around the world, and much more. They reunited an 80's rock band for their parents' anniversary, and even helped Candace learn how to drive. In the midst of making every day a great day for themselves, Phineas and Ferb use their creativity to make the world a better place for the people they love too.
But the most impressive thing about these brothers is they never seem to be worried about what other people will think. When obtaining building permits or ordering lumber, the boys are often asked, "Aren't you a little young to be engineers?" or "Aren't you a little young to be constructing a skyscraper?" The reply is always the same: "Well, yes, yes we are," as if to say What's your point? These two reassure us that just because social standards may say we can't use our creativity and imagination to its fullest extent, we shouldn't let that stop us.
Essentially, that is what Carpe diem truly means. It is to look at each day like a blank canvas, and fill it with colors of your own, without worry that someone will tell you your masterpiece is wrong or stupid. And, if along the way, you make someone smile, well that's even better. So take some advice from Phineas and Ferb. Don't waste a second. Have no fear of glaring looks from others. While you're at it, bring some happiness to those around you. And don't ever underestimate the lesson behind the phrase, "Ferb, I know what we're gonna do today."
Best of wishes to you in this not so big, yet not so small world.
Sincerely,
- Emily
