One of the greatest controversies today is gun control; a topic so heated that it can be hard to have a rational, reasonable conversation. Anytime I'm in a debate I try to see both sides of the issue and with this issue in particular I try to challenge all of my peers to simply go to a gun range, take lessons, and learn the basics of firearms. I think the main problem today is the mainstream media's scare tactics which force those who don't know much about firearms to be scared of them. Let me go ahead and say it; you shouldn't be afraid of guns, however, you should give guns the respect they deserve.

I personally believe its o.k. to be a little nervous at first but the key to enjoying shooting is to relax and stay calm. I would obviously recommend you take a firearms safety course before you go shooting-- in this course you'll learn about firearm safety, how to shoot, and state/federal law in regards to firearms. You can go to just about any gun shop and sign up for the course, you do not have to provide your own firearm most instructor will allow you to rent a firearm to borrow for the course. To enjoy yourself at the gun range get a firearm that you are comfortable using, employees at guns shops can help you pick a good firearm just for you. I would recommend bringing someone with you who is experienced with guns not only to potentially purchase a gun but also when you go to the gun range. To have a good time you need to start establishing good habits and practicing safety! As I mentioned before you shouldn't be scared of firearms but you should maintain respect for guns. Shooting can be so much fun if you're safe about it, in fact the NRA offers scholarships to shooting enthusiasts! One more thing I'd like to address is gun control itself; the argument from the left is that guns are dangerous and should require very strict regulations as well as big government involvement. This side generally cites mass shootings like Aurora, Sandy Hook, and Columbine as evidence that firearms are too dangerous for civilians. The other side of the argument is that individuals as citizens have the Constitutional right to self-defense with a firearm and that that the only thing that stops a bad guy with a gun is a good guy with a gun. Personally I'm far right when it comes to this issue. While Sandy Hook, Aurora, and Columbine were horrendous and unspeakable acts, it doesn't negate that every American has the right to firearms. This is not to say I'm anti-common sense because I am. I'm against gun control I am not however against common sense gun reform which includes background checks and mental health screenings. The police, in general, only respond to a crime after it has occurred, whereas private civilians are usually the only ones that can respond to a crime as it is happening! I think civilians have an obligation to protect one another and one another's property. If you choose not to carry that is o.k. some people aren't comfortable with a firearm and I would much rather you not carrying than be uncomfortable and carrying a firearm. At the end of the day guns can be fun when people practice common sense around them! So my challenge to each of you this week is to research the second amendment and go check out a gun range or gun shop!