In my opinion, I would have asked for another razor after that salesman cut the paper. Take Ace's advice, get it professionally honed and get used to using a properly honed razor before trying to learn how to hone it. Take it one step at a time. Also, when I touch up my razors's edge, nothing comes in contact with that edge except the skin on my face.

Other members in this forum may disagree with me, that's fine, but from my point of view, a straight razor's edge is more delicate than people realize.