“But, Dad …”

“I know you have been scared of dogs since you were thirteen when that dog jumped out of a car and bit you on the arm. You should have confronted your fear back then and taken care of what has now become a major phobia.”

“But, Dad …”

“I’ve talked with her owner and she does not even remember the incident it was so minor. In fact, she says that Precious has never attacked anyone.”

“But, Dad …”

“She has even agreed to helping with our little challenge. You just have to screw up your courage and walk by the open front door of her car – and nothing will happen.”

“But, Dad …”

“Besides, Precious is pretty elderly in dog years. She is too old to attack anyone. She said she would put Precious on the front seat of the car so you can walk by and conquer your fear. Look, there she is at the window watching and waiting for you to show your courage as a grown man. Go on. We will all be proud of you.”

“But, Dad …”

“Sometimes, I wonder if you have a single iota of courage. They should have named you after Leo, the cowardly lion. Let go of my arm! That hurts.”

“But, Dad …”

“Oh, alright, you namby-pamby, I will get out and walk to the front door to show that it is perfectly safe! If you do not walk up there after this, you are through as my son.”
(car door slams)

“See, perfectly safe. There is nothing to fear …”