Hash? JTR? Passwords? What!?

[Prophet_Ind]

I'm quite the script kiddie.
I completed all the basic missions.
I took a little help of course but I got through all of the basic and I think 2 realistics on my own somehow.
I really don't have the greatest understanding of hacking and cracking.
It was never really my thing until recently I decided I could try it and who knows I may learn something.
Mainly what I want to do is crack passwords and email/usernames. I have on clue if this is possible of course but I want to know how.
Like I'm sure I can wrap my head around quite a bit of it, but I can't find anywhere that talks about it.

So if some experienced user happens to see this, could ya please help a noob out?

I've been lurking on various forums for awhile and I discovered some keywords like Hash and stuff. I have NO clue where to find the hash nor do I know exactly what it is.
If someone could explain this to me or a part of what I want to know I think I could be on my way.

[mutants_r_us_guild]

Hash - Encrypted password
JTR - John the Ripper (used to crack hash)

[fashizzlepop]

First of all, that's Illegal.
Second, your asking for help to do it.
Third, GTFO.

[Prophet_Ind]

First of all, that's Illegal.
Second, your asking for help to do it.
Third, GTFO.

*Sigh*
I realize it's illegal.
I'm not asking for help to do something I'm asking to know HOW to find something so I can do it by myself