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This is a wonderful story, Mark ( @mkjohnsons ). I am really happy that you have this guitar, and I am especially happy how you finally got it. Yah! That’s so much fun. 😍
I own a 12 string, but I can’t add much to what @Carol-3M-Stillhand already said. Excellent advice. But, I can add one thing. Many 12 string players use light or extra light strings. In fact, I found some “ghs”, 12 string, light, silk and steel, strings on JustStrings.com. They are actually super light. Starting from the low E string, the gauge is 22,42; 15,34; 11,26; 09,20; 13,13; 10,10. As you look around for stings you will find these are quite a bit lighter than anything else, including sets labeled extra lights.
As far as playing, I don’t know that I could add much to what Carol said. I have found that the 12 string forces me to be more precise with my finger placement on the strings. I have found that I can play it fingerstyle, but it demands more precision, again. But the chimey sound is enhanced by using a pick. So I am going to start using my thumb and finger picks as suggested by @David_Leo .
MG 😀