That dream, you know … the one you had when you were a kid … remember? Yes, the one where you could fly. I’ve had many dreams throughout my life and frankly I have forgotten most of them. But not this one – not the one where I could just take off and soar high in the sky like a bird.
Since those dreams I have done many things to lift up my spirit and mimic that exhilarating feeling of freedom. I have walked on high mountain trails in the Himalayas and even flown small airplanes. But the one thing I have experienced which resembles flying the most is SCUBA diving.
I earned my PADI Open Water certification in 1990 while stationed in Okinawa, Japan. In Okinawa I dove some amazing sites like the Sunabe Wall, and even ventured to dive the Kerama Islands on-board Japanese fishing boats. Current drift dives around Okinawa brought back that amazing feeling of flight like no other activity ever before.
Since then I have earned Advanced Diver, Peak Buoyancy, Underwater Photography, Nitrox, Rescue Diver and Dive Master certifications. I have experienced amazing dives in Okinawa Japan, In La Parguera Puerto Rico, In the Bahama Islands, Cozumel Mexico, in the Florida Keys and most recently off the coast of West Palm Beach, Jupiter and Stuart.
The beauty and abundance of sea life here in Florida is just amazing. I have never seen so many species of fish anywhere else – even sharks! Many people think of sharks as man hunters. These are indeed creatures to be respected but should not be looked at as a threat. Like me, most divers look forward to seeing a shark during a dive. They are very elusive.
Has it been a while since you went for a dive? Give me a call – let’s go diving!
Maybe you have wanted to experience SCUBA diving for a while but your busy schedule has not allowed it. At the present I am dedicated to certifying Parkhurst Christian Academy students, but I can connect you with a great instructor.
Perhaps you have taken an Open Water class and are ready to tackle Advanced Diver training, Rescue Diver, Nitrox and many more courses. Or you are in need of up to date diving equipment. I can help you find a great dive shop in Florida.
Wishing you calm seas and a safe journey,
“Uncle Ed” Zayas