I was lucky. My parents taught me right from wrong, explained what could happen if i chose the wrong path, and trusted me to make the right decisions.
We had guns in the house from the time i was born. My Dad sat me down and explained that they are NOT toys, and never to touch them. He went into detail on what could happen if i ever did mess with them. They were in a gun rack in the upstairs area. I never touched them.
When i was 13, i asked if i could take the train to Chicago with a friend of mine. He had permission to go. The plan was to get on the train, travel to Chicago, and immediatly get on the return train back home. Just for the ride.
My Mom about went NUTS. She was like "NO WAY!!!"
My Dad though said i was mature enough to handle it, and gave me permission. He took me aside, and said i could go.......but told me that I had to make the decision myself, and how my Mom did not want me to do it. He left it 100% up to me.
I didn't go.
Maybe i am the acception.
I know not all kids are treated with respect, and given the opportunity to make "adult" like decisions. I guess i was fortunate in alot of ways.
I like and respect the people on this site, even the ones i don't always agree with. You all have been through different situations then i have been in, and they form what makes you "you". I respect that totally.