Submitted by Anonymous on Mon, 11/24/2008 - 09:54

Dear Ms. Ellwood,

I had a question for you. I know that i would be very frightened diving down in the water. Deep water and darkness scares me. How do you do it? How do you overcome the fear?

 

 

Thank you,

Jacob Meggesto 

Robin Ellwood

Hello Jacob,
It's challenging to overcome fears isn't it? I have always been a water person, so being in the water feels like a second home to me. Although deep and dark water can be intimidating, there is so much "else" going on - organisms to look at, things/places to explore, that I simply focus on the enjoyable parts and then the "scary" stuff fades away! Once your eyes adjust, you can typically see fairly well in the water and if it's really dark, we bring a flashlight so we can see! Sometimes the darkness brings out the most interesting creatures; I saw the CUTEST little octopus on one of my "deep/dark" water dives. If I had let the darkness stop me, I never would have seen it! 
I believe it's good to challenge yourself to face fears - to a degree and as long as you can stay safe! You may like diving! Besides - most of our dives are in shallow water where there is plenty of light! I can always choose not to go on a dive if I am uncomfortable for any reason. But each one has been wonderful!
If I am a bit nervous, I just take it "one kick" at a time - I can always get out! Our dives are enjoyable! 
Cheers,
Robin