In my personal experience, when you are a beginning surfer, it's going to be obvious to everyone there out with you (and even those on the beach). But relax, because no one is judging you but you. We all start from the same place, and that is learning to be in the right place at the right time when the wave breaks. That's the first lesson in surfing -- hardboard, softboard, boogie board, and body surfing.

When all is said and done, no true surfer mocks another. It's about the spirit of the surf. We're all learning how to meet and greet and catch the next wave. Get out there, get goofy, have fun, and let the ocean be your teacher. She is the teacher!