Hello from Berlin

I just bought my very first guitar and am trying to work through the finger discomfort and hand contortions. :) Great site with a lot of great tips. Slow and steady wins the race. Right?

You've got that right! Working through the calluses is the most difficult part for new guitarists. It's ok to take a day off to rest your fingers, but don't give up! It WILL get easier and hurt less. Keep on rockin!