There I am, sitting on the side of the beach as my fellow beginners and I gaze into the instructors eyes while explaining some basic concepts. I turn my head around as far as my gas can allows me. I see the waves staring at me from 40 yards away beckoning me to come in. We finally make our way to the water. Inch by inch, our gas cans become lighter as they tremble into the water. This is a moment of confidence, anxiety, and the unknown. 15 minutes later, after some more basic training, I find myself 15 feet below the surface swimming next to beautiful fish. Although we were in a group, our instructors allowed us to be free and explore all while being in their vision so we knew we were safe. It was every man for himself down there. The instructors were very genuine people and love what they do. They made my first experience great!