Minn,
You are right, we all think that since I did it, anyone can do it. The thing is that there is a good progression that can be taken while learning to fly and if everyone went that route I think the results would be a whole lot alike. I try to just let people know the steps that I took and I truly think that everyone can do that same and be successful.
I would be willing to bet that Scenario 4 could be applied to trike gear trainers just as easily. You can't tell me that no one has crashed a trike gear trainer on take-off. As you said, everyone has a slightly different experience with their plane and we all hope that they are all as positive as possible.
I went against a lot of people's advise when I decided to start with the 4*. I was feeling very very anxious because of all of the negative talk about starting with taildraggers and low wing aircraft. But I followed my gut and I have NOT regret it one single day.
Thanks for the good debate on the trike vs. TD. [8D]

Doggscube, I would suggest that to you. After reading all of this, just go with your gut and have a blast in the process. Fly on a simulator (free FMS or other), get a good instructor and have fun.
Best of luck to you and let us know how it goes.