07/28/2024
Last October, we fled war – my wife, our toddler son, and I. Escaping as quickly as possible, we sought refuge in the first place with available flights from Israel: Athens, Greece.
Finding a place near the airport in the coastal town of Porto Rafti, we were overwhelmed by a sense of displacement. Our world had been shattered, and the off-season gloom of Greece only amplified our feelings of uncertainty.
As we wandered along deserted streets, a closed dive shop caught my eye. The familiar PADI flags brought a familiar feeling of comfort, a small anchor in the storm. Strolling back the same way, the dive shop door miraculously slid open, revealing a friendly face. A big, curly-haired man with a thick Dutch accent greeted us with a warm smile, "Can I help you?"
Luc invited us in. The shop was technically open, but the off-season meant it was mostly empty. We shared our story – the war, the chaos, and the uncertainty of the future. And then, with a simple question, Luc changed everything: “Well, there's only one thing we can do now… What’s your fin size?”
Submerged in the embracing aquatic world, I traded the weight of my troubles for the weights in my BCD. An hour of diving was an hour of peace, a desperately needed escape. The following day, I joined him on a boat for an advanced open water course. With each dive, my sanity returned, piece by piece.
I’ll never forget the solace and support Luc provided. His dive shop, Blue Yard Hub, was more than just a business; it was a haven. If you find yourself in the area, seek him out. Tell him I sent you!
Thank you, Luc. Thank you, PADI. And Thank you, ocean. 🌊
PADI
