carpe diem music mic

The late Robin Williams could incite many a thrilling wonder to life. Perhaps one of his most cherished roles we remember was that of English teacher John Keating in “Dead Poets Society.”

Speaking of those that paved the way before them, Keating aimed to summon the muse for his students. He posed: “They’re not that different from you, are they? … Invincible, just like you feel. The world is their oyster. They believe they’re destined for great things, just like many of you, their eyes are full of hope, just like you. Did they wait until it was too late to make from their lives even one iota of what they were capable? Because, you see, [they] are now fertilizing daffodils. But if you listen real close, you can hear them whisper their legacy to you. Go on, lean in. Listen, you hear it? Carpe — Hear it? Carpe, carpe diem, seize the day…make your lives extraordinary.”

In an even more literal translation, “carpe diem” would mean something like “to pluck the day [as it is ripe].” So, what if you were to imagine your days or your moments as a summer fruit or flower in bloom?

When it arrives, it is at its absolute most perfect stage and it is brimming with the most fragrant and lush opportunity possible. You see that glowing orb suspended upon the branch? That’s your peach. That’s your lilac blossom, your ripened pear. To let it wilt or rot would be a waste.  So, “gather ye rosebuds while ye may,” run with them and render them extraordinary.

Image via Hanna Voxland



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