There are introductory classes taught almost everywhere. Don’t buy a firearm until you have an idea of how to handle it safely. IF you can find a local gun range, or gun shop, they can help you find someone; maybe they will have time to get you started with the basics.
Some firing ranges have guns available for rent.
Lots of things enter into the question about what is the right firearm for you. Hand size, recoil tolerance, whether or not you plan to carry it or keep it in your nightstand at night, etc., etc. Another thing to consider is how you are going to keep it separated from any children in your life. Guns and kids don’t mix well.
Thank you so much everyone - great ideas. I will make contacts with the local NRA and go from there. Glad I didn’t jump into something without asking Freepers first.
Freepers are the BEST!