How to convince my parents to let me get a facebook account?

[Smiley Face]

Okay, so basically, I am 14 years old and I really want a facebook account, but my parents won't let me :'( I am not the kind of person to let anyone view my profile, or post pictures of myself, or post personal info about myself, or accept random friend requests. i know how it works, kind of, and I am missing out on a lot of social things because of it but they just won't let me!! They are not very strict usually, but are when it comes to this topic. i want them to understand that I won't misuse it and won't do anything stupid. i think they think it is unsafe, but isn't it only unsafe if you don't use it correctly and are stupid with it?? I want them to understand that I am 14 and I need some independance. I understand why they say no, but I can take care of myself