Owning a gun has always been a normal thing for me since I was a child. Guns and my family went hand in hand for hunting purposes. When I was a very young child I was taught gun safety — end of story. I understand gun control is a controversial topic, but I do not quite understand how my owning a gun for protection, now that I am of the legal age to do so in my state following the laws, brings about these commonly known stereotypes. These stereotypes are incorrect — end of story I will stand by the statement: My and or my family owning guns for protection does not mean we are uneducated, bloodthirsty, religious or drug dealers.

1. No, I am not a cop.

Just because I carry a pistol on my hip legally concealed or in the open does not by any means make me a police officer. The only connection we have is possibly our preference in handguns. You will not see me running down the street after a criminal.

2. My gun will not shoot you.

A holstered gun safety on will not magically come to life and shoot you. I am sorry, but you are safe. Even a loaded gun safety off sitting untouched will not harm you. The point is the person behind the weapon will or will not.

3. On the contrary, I love this country.

This country is the reason I as a human being have rights. Why would I hate a country that lets me speak my mind and do things freely?

4. Yep, you got me; I am bloodthirsty.

My cover is blown because the reason I carry is not out of self-defense (what a crazy idea?!) but because I want to hurt someone. Yep, you hit the nail on the head.

5. Drug dealer? Excuse me?

OK let's get one thing straight. Just because I choose to carry a gun for self-defense does not mean I am affiliated with drugs. You can keep that judgment to yourself because I do not look at you and assume the worst.

6. I, unlike you, have college experience.

No, I am not uneducated, but thanks for assuming that. On the contrary, I not only have my high school diploma, but I also have college experience. I do not have a college diploma yet, but I will. My gun does not equal stupidity.

7. My friends and I are not planning a purge.

Gosh this one makes me laugh! Just because my friends, family and I like or do not like the people in office does not mean we are going to take over.

8. My religion means nothing.

Again, my need and want to have protection has nothing to do with what religion I practice. End of story.

9. No, I will not teach your children bad things.

Whether or not your child knows the complete information pro and con of the entire subject, I will not try to sway their opinion.

10. Actually, you are safer with me around.

If I am behind you and your family in the checkout lane of the supermarket and I am conceal carrying, you are safer to have me there. If someone comes in to rob the place and is aiming a gun at your family I can save your family and mine also.