"The world outside the fence just isn't worth the pain."

Sad, but too true for many. Yes, "self talk" is no substitute for true intimacy. But maybe it has great value if it can nudge us even a little in a positive direction toward the "world outside the fence" and more mutually accepting and trusting relationships. Given enough time, the dog will edge closer and closer to the dreaded border and may even inadvertently cross it. The closer it gets, the more enticing the meal. It can learn on its own that the shock is well worth the fleeting pain. Or even that there is no longer a shock at all. It can finally be free to enjoy what before lay so close yet so far. There is hope in what once seemed hopeless. The world outside is worth it after all.