Becoming a responsible (liberal) gun owner

I've always felt like the cost/benefit analysis didn't support me becoming a gun owner, but I'm close to the scales tipping to where I think it would be worth the risks and investment to be better prepared to defend myself and my family. If I'm going to take this step, I obviously want to do it absolutely responsibly, and am prepared to invest time and money into doing this right.

What are some good first steps (classes?) to learn about guns, gun safety, which gun(s) are best for my purposes, etc?

EDIT: Thanks everyone! I appreciate the outpouring of advice and support (and those who have respectfully challenged me with data on the risks of firearm ownership). I honestly didn’t expect this conversation to be so respectful.