I enjoy shooting because I am gaining the knowledge of others who are teaching me and I will always know how to shoot for the rest of my life. Even if it’s for protection or just for fun, I can have this bit of knowledge that I can keep with me where ever I go.

Shooting is a right as well as a privilege for me as a kid. My gun can easily be taken away from me if I mess up. Being able to shoot allows me to release a lot of pent up energy, and allows me to think about the task at hand rather than all the other ideas floating around in my head.  Shooting gives me an amount of responsibility that is not overwhelming. I have to know where others are and what they are doing, and I can't turn in a 180 degree circle without holstering my gun first.

 Getting behind a firearm takes more than point and shoot. Listening is the key. I have learned that if I listen to the grown-ups around me, my aim gets better. When I listen they are transferring their knowledge to me and making me a better shooter.

Shooting is also a type of therapy. It helps me to unwind after a crazy week at school. It allows me to get out of the house after being cooped up for too long. I can release all that energy and soon, after the first ten rounds or so, I feel lighter. Like a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders.

I get excited at the thought of more kids my age joining in this wonderful sport. We need more kids out on the range learning to shoot. It's so much fun and it is very relaxing after a pretty hectic week.