Like many people, I used to be terrified of the ocean. I imagined scary creatures below the surface and had panic attacks when swimming in open water. Diving hadn't been on my radar. But in 1997, while living in Jerusalem, I took a trip to Egypt with my boyfriend at the time, and he wanted to do an introductory scuba dive. I didn't admit that I was frightened, but I see only fear through the fake smile in our photo.
 

My first experience below sea level was beautiful, quiet, and teeming with life. A few months later, I returned to take a training course. Since then, I've become a Nitrox-certified rescue diver and have been on over 700 dives in the world's top destinations including Palau, Australia, Papua New Guinea, Komodo, Honduras and Fiji just to name a few.

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I mention this because my becoming a diver was completely random. I could have just as easily taken up kitesurfing, bobsledding or birdwatching had a different opportunity been presented. What mattered is that it gave me a hobby, a new set of skills to practice and master, and a truly wonderful way to see the world! I made SO many friends I wouldn't have known otherwise, because I discovered that you only need to share one common interest with someone to build a lasting friendship. And finally, scuba diving helped me forge a deep connection with nature that hadn't existed for me before then but very much does now. All of it happened because I said yes to something that scared me when I wanted to say no. May we all be so lucky to find something that brings us joy in this life!