The Conception Tragedy, and Living One Day at a Time

The Conception and the Truth Aquatics, in general, has a very special place in my heart. I have to admit, that it is (well, was) my favorite dive boat in California. Since I moved to America, I have spent a lot of time diving off Truth Aquatics vessels and hold great memories from each trip. 

We used to charter this very week on this very boat for years with the shop I used to manage (Aqua Adventures Dive Co.) When Greg Tash, the owner of the shop got cancer a few years ago, he closed the business and gave up this charter date to another group. That group ultimately went on the fatal expedition that took the lives of 34 people.

If things had not fallen into place the way they did, I and my family very well could have been on that boat as we prepare for our trip to the Arctic in January. 

I met my husband on one of those Labor Day trips in 2002. I became close friends with many of my students while we cruised the Channel islands. I introduced the underwater world to countless students and planted that "bug" that all divers have. And I am forever thankful for the crew who always kept our safety their top priority. 

Today, as we remember those who lost their lives doing what they love, I choose to look on the bright side of things: They lived out their dreams.

I knew this would be a tragedy that reached not just of the families, but the thousands and thousands that have had amazing trips full of wonder, amazement, and discovery with laughs abound. Words don't mean a whole lot, but my thoughts are with the victims, their families, and the surviving crew who must live with this tragedy, and everyone who has ever stepped foot on the Conception.

In an effort to help the families of the victims, DAN has donated $10,000 and established this page so that others who wish to donate can do so knowing that 100% of their donations will go directly to the families in need.

While the last week has been a heartbreaking time in my life, I find solace in creating jewelry. As Abraham Lincoln said, "The best thing about the future is that it comes one day at a time."

For those days when you need a little push to get to the next one, wear these meaningful inspirational pieces. Always remember that the future comes one day at a time.