Scuba in Aruba

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06/13/2025

While SCUBA is an acronym for Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus, it has evolved into a common word on its own that’s spelled in lowercase letters. —Grammarly

James Cameron’s quote, “Failure is an option, but fear is not,” resonates deeply with scuba divers. —https://www.costaricadiveandsurf.com/best-10-diving-quotes-from-famous-ocean-lovers/

“Skeeters” is Southern-speak (USA) for mosquitos.

Image created using Copilot (2025-06-14)

Listen to poem:

“Failure is an option, but fear is not.” —James Cameron


stuff into your wetsuit
strap on your BCD
from your regulator take two sips
excited you should be

we’re gonna scuba
       in Aruba
(did you say Cuba?)
 I said Aruba

stare at the horizon 
big step into the fray
double fist tap o’er your head
shows them you’re ok

we’re gonna scuba
       in Aruba
(did you say Cuba?) No!
 I said Aruba

remember safety scuba
PADI rule of thirds a must
never hold your breath
or your lungs will surely bust

we’re gonna scuba (Yeah!)
       in Aruba
(did you say Cuba?) No!
 I said Aruba

finally we descend
enchantment ‘neath the waves
turtles, eels, stingrays, sharks
scenes that mankind craves

we’re gonna scuba (Yeah!)
       in Aruba
(did you say Cuba?) No!
 I said Aruba

we’re gonna scuba (Yeah!)
       in Aruba 
(did you say Cuba?) No!
 I said Aruba. Yo!


.~.~.~

Final thoughts in quintuplet couplets:

Water’s calm with clear blue sky
Summertime is nigh

Be sure to check your regulator
You can always thank me later

No more time for any rhyme
Dive five meters to escape the skeeters

If your mortgage is underwater
Are you certified to dive?

Sea Hunt was a favorite show
It’s great to be alive

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Oliver Mckeithan

Date: 6/14/2025 5:11:00 AM

Excellent write. I used to dive. Got Open water certification. Wonderful experience. Your poem brought back good memories. You didnt find Natalie Holloway did you:)

Mark Toney
Date: 6/14/2025 9:15:00 AM

I appreciate your thoughtful comment, Oliver, and for reminding me of Natalie Holloway. Such tragic events should never be forgotten.