The dive mule will die the same death as the poorly paid musician- long, drawn out, and eternal...there will always be someone willing to 'lend a hand', thinking that it will endear them to the shop, or it gives me free- exposure, dives, publicity, a chance for more diving, you name it. I really don't care that I lumped the gear, or I have to clean the head after a good day at sea. For me, yep, I get a lot of dives I wouldn't normally, doing things most people will never do. I have played council, hero, and scrubber in the same day. I have been sent to rescue an unconcious diver from another boat (directly after we pulled one of our own back to the line, so the adreniline was high) only to get close enough that the bird took off, lol. I love my experiences and group more than anything, its just awesome. But, I have seen people get into it, realize it is not for them, and not understand they can quit the program. My wife is also a DM, she loves taking newer divers around. She likes doing the discover local off the boat. She looks at me like I am psycho when I plunge to the seabed anchor in hand, or go grab someone that has missed the lines. One of my best friends only DMs for instructors. He absolutely loves the kids camp, and helping the adults the rest of the year. So, if you can find the nich, you will never be happier. If you don't want to do blank, figure out a way around it. Just my 2 psi
-J