Is this like childbirth?

[mjgriffing]

I can't comment on childbirth, but it took me a while to take to this sport.  My first experience was so horrible, I was never going to be in water again -- including a bath tub.  Showers would be fine, but actually being in water brought back horrible feelings.  Prior to that experience, we had been snorkeling around the world and it was years before I could even do that again.

That being said, I now love diving! I took the certification class with my husband about 5 years later and, thanks to the patience of the instructors (thanks, Smith Diving), discovered a wonderful activity to share with him.  Take it slow, don't try to rush it.  This isn't a race.  If the instructor you are working with isn't able to help you learn the skills, look for another instructor.  People have different learning styles and not every instructor is able to teach every student.  Find someone you are comfortable with and give it another try.  I am really glad that I didn't let my first experience stop me forever!