I wondered how many people who have purchased guns really understand that awesome responsibility. Or have bothered to attend any training — a requirement if a concealed carry law is enacted in Illinois.

The shooting part of the lesson started off with the challenge of me being left handed, and how I would manage to load ammunition from what seems backward to most shooters. Sue and her son Scott patiently taught me how to correctly wrap my reluctant fingers around a .22 caliber handgun. I found myself so focused on doing the right things — standing solidly so I didn’t tip backwards, keeping my finger away from the trigger until the right moment and looking down the sight with one eye closed — that I was able to set aside the voice who hates guns.

On the second day, my thoughts shifted to whether Sue would let me try a bigger gun, something she agreed to do with a .38 caliber revolver. I made two observations about the upgrade: loading was easier and the shots left bigger holes in the target.

I actually did a fair job of hitting the targets once I got the hang of the process. I kept the paper evidence — proof that I had indeed overcome a fear I never intended to face.

The Darnalls and the experienced shooters in the class were good sports about having an anti-gun advocate in their midst. My classmates urged me to consider buying a gun, based in no small part I’m sure, on the fact that I managed to handle one without harming them or myself. I’m not yet convinced that everyone needs to own a gun, but I am certain that training is essential for those who decide to accept that responsibility. Fewer tragic stories should always be the goal.

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