Undoubtedly, a major problem in our society is gun violence. However, the term gun violence pins too much blame on the gun and not enough blame on the individual who uses the weapon.

Most people only use guns for recreation and protection. A complete repeal of the second amendment would punish millions of responsible, law-abiding citizens.

While I am completely against a repeal of the second amendment, there is room for reform. Lawmakers should push stricter background checks to help filter out people who are unfit to purchase a firearm. Lawmakers should also place stricter restrictions on guns purchased at gun shows.

Stricter background checks can only do so much because it’s so easy for anyone to purchase a firearm illegally. Why take the guns out of responsible hands, knowing bad people can still obtain guns illegally? Taking away someone’s ability to defend themselves from a person who will get the gun they desire regardless seems counterproductive and dangerous.

I am all for gun control, but my version of gun control does not involve taking away people’s rights and property. In our society, we do not have a gun problem. We have a people problem. Guns by themselves have no ability to harm anyone. I could scream at a deer hunting rifle or an AR-15 all day long asking it to shoot, but it will remain silent. Our problem is lack of morals.

Violence is glorified in various forms of media, especially movies, video games and television shows. My parents always tell me that you get out what you put in. If people continuously feed their minds with violent thoughts, than they are more likely to be violent.

Another problem we must tackle as a culture is bullying. While being bullied is not an excuse to commit murder, there seems to be an undeniable trend. Many school shooters are victims of bullying. Schools, parents and kids need to crack down on bullying now more than ever. Everyone deserves be accepted for who they are no matter what their interests, hobbies or political stances. It is also critical that those who have mental illnesses are treated with the proper care and love they deserve.

The last point I want to make about my gun control is something I have always taken very seriously—education.

Ever since I was five years old I have been around guns. My dad taught me how to use one safely, but most importantly he taught me that they should never be used to harm anyone. I think all parents should educate their kids about guns whether they own any or not.

Doing these things will help promote peace in our world. Maybe someday, if we all set our differences aside and come together, shootings will be a tough history subject and not a frightening norm.