Stuff 101: Pirates of the Carpe Diem

By J.J. Atwell

Huh?

Today’s subject came to me as I was visiting one of the Disney theme parks. You might have already picked up on the pirate reference. You might also know that the term carpe diem is used to urge people to seize the day. But what in the world is “Pirates of the carpe diem” supposed to mean? Since I made up the phrase I’ll go ahead and make up the definition. 

Definition

I’ll use that phrase to refer to whatever comes up to rob you of the opportunity to dress. It could be a person. It could be conflicting plans. It could be the weather. Anything that interrupts your plans to get dressed can be called a “pirate.”

Picture this: you have cleared your schedule and have been planning on getting dressed up. Maybe you’re going to stay home. Maybe you are going out in public. You’ve spent some time the days ahead thinking about what outfit you’ll wear. You know how long you’ll need to make that transition and how long you’ll be able to enjoy being your femme self. You’re going to seize the day. And then the phone rings. Darn! It’s that dastardly pirate that’s going to steal your day. 

What to Do?

The key to coping is to know that how you react affects your sanity. Remember that which doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. At least that’s what we used to say in the service. So when that pirate strikes, it’s time to adjust not surrender. Maybe you can just reschedule your outing. Or perhaps get dressed later. If worse comes to worse you can plan for a different day. I know that none of us could ever go long times without a bit of femme fun, so complete abstinence is never a solution to those dastardly pirates. 

Let Me Know

So let’s hear it. How do you deal with those dastardly Pirates of the Carpe Diem? Do you holler and curse? Drink rum? Ravage and savage? If you get those references, you’re probably a big Disney fan and know the rest of the lyrics to this music from the Pirates Of the Caribbean attraction. 

But seriously, I’m sure that there are many followers here who have had to deal with stolen opportunities. What did you do? Do you have a suggestion that will help somebody else cope? Let’s hear it. 

I’ll Be Back

I’m off searching for some pixie dust to fend off those dastardly pirates, but I will return. As always comments are welcome either here on the blog or by email to Jenn6nov at-sign gmail dot com. JJ is always looking for more stuff, so if there is something you would like to read about please let me know!

Wearing Dress the Population

George E. Stone femulating in the 1948 film Trapped by Boston Blackie.