Recently in the United States, especially since the sudden, tragic outbreak of school shootings that have occurred over the last few months, there has been a huge issue regarding guns-who gets them, how they go about getting them under what circumstances should a person not be entitled to the right to have one, and so forth. Democrats and republicans have been bickering with each other like cats and dogs over this issue, and I thought I would join on the fun and throw in my two cents worth. As a young person at the tender age of 21, I feel that it is not only my right, but my duty as a young American citizen and a part of the future generation, to voice my opinion on this issue that ultimately effects all of us. My mouth, as usual, has gotten me in trouble when I have been debating this issue, but as the country song goes, "You've got to stand for something or you'll fall for anything."

First off, I am a firm believer in the constitution and the rights of which is ensures us all as American citizens. People who are against gun control have been saying that we are trying to take away the second amendment, which is the right to bear arms. That is not at all what we're trying to do. I say "we" because I feel that most people my age and perhaps even a tad bit younger could agree with what I say about this issue. What we want to do instead is to make the process of obtaining a fire arm more rigorous, with additional rules and restrictions being added so not just anyone off the street could get their hands on one. These restrictions would include mandated multiple background checks and psychological evaluations foe each person who wanted to purchase a gun. With this being said, if a person has a clean record and are mentally stable, they can have a gun-heck, even a whole cabinet full of guns if they want. It would be wise, however, to keep the firearms safe and secure in a locked cabinet or safe. So the great question is: if a person is mentally stable and has no criminal record, having greater restrictions on guns would not affect them at all, so why is everyone getting their panties in a bunch?

So see, we are not trying to "ban guns" at all- like people are so headstrong about wanting to protect their right to bear arms, I, along with countless others, are headstrong about protect our basic right to thrive in a safe environment without having to fear for our lives each time we go to school, to a concert, or even to a ball game. They are useful tools of protection-if used properly. Guns are powerful, and with great power comes great responsibility.