My Shark Dive Adventure:

I can’t believe that I’m actually able to write about this experience. Ever since I was a little girl I’ve always dreamed about swimming with Sharks. My dad and I would always re-watch all of the Jaws movies and we will always make sure to tune into Shark Week every year. There was always something about just being that close to them that I would always dream about.

I was actually supposed to go diving in July but we ended up running late. No one knew I was doing this, well actually two people who I knew could keep it a secret. As much as I was overjoyed at the thought of being so close to these beautiful creatures something laid very heavy on my mind and heart. For those who may or may not have noticed I am a pretty thick woman; growing up on the heavier side wasn’t easy. You have to over come thoughts of insecurities, thoughts of “What if I don’t fit? Are people going to judge me? Worse are they going to mock me?” As much as I’d love to say that I am very confident because of growing up thicker like a snicker I’ve had days where I don’t think highly of myself, not often but they do come.

I was so nervous the day had finally came but I couldn’t be as excited as my Sister Edith Marie pictured above with me. I was quite worried but my YaYas reassured me every step of the way that I would fit into the wetsuit no matter what. Everyone at the Long Island Aquarium was so nice and welcoming. When my turn came to pick a wetsuit I looked at the diving instructor with worry and sadness. She took a look at me and asked what’s wrong so I told her what if I dont fit into one. She smiled at me and made sure that I knew that I would find one that would fit perfectly and that I would have a great time.

So Edith and I did what only sisters can do and we crammed ourselves into the one person bathroom and got ready for the battle of the wetsuits. We were told that it would take us atleast 20 minutes to get into them and boy were they not lying. Edith is changing, I’m worried and changing in the shower since the room was so small. I looked at Edith and kept getting nervous, she looked me dead in the eyes and said “YOU WILL FIT IF IT’S THE LAST THING I DO.” Not gonna lie at this point all nervousness left, admiration for this woman grew even more, and also a little bit of fear because of the fire of determination in her eyes.

After getting both legs in, sweating like no tomorrow, we suddenly realized that it was on inside out. At this point I was ready to admit defeat Edith had plans of her own. With tears mixed with sweat I had to take the wet-suit off and we began the process all over again, sweating, crying, Edith pulling at the suit till she almost lifted me to the ceiling, some huffing, and puffing and the next thing I knew both our suits were on and we were ready to get in.

I WAS ON CLOUD NINE! I was finally going to do what I dreamed about in a tank filled with Nine Sharks. This experience was one I would do over and over again. At first getting used to breathing with an oxygen tank under water was scary but after a while I just focused on the magnificent sharks swimming around us. I’m truly so thankful to God for allowing me to experience this dream come true.

I can not end this post without thanking the person who made this dream a reality. My dear sweet Jackie, she is one of those people who you will always thank God for. She is a motivator, a light house, a sister, and someone you will always want in your corner. Not only did my YAYA plan this out and talked to whoever she needed to to make this possible but she also pushed me to dare to dream a better dream and for that I am grateful.

THE END!

Stay tuned for my next adventure!