Had trouble thinking of something for this one, so it seemed to turn into a sort of reflective piece? Started to have trouble wrapping it up near the end. Since I'm using an app that's timed at 5 minutes, I can see myself starting to rush even more as I get closer and closer to finishing. I will keep experimenting with the 5-minute freewriting format, but I'll be looking around to see if there are similar contests/events for longer pieces. If you happen to know of one, please let me know!
Credit for the prompt goes to 
When you're young, I think it's easy for people to imagine that your emotions are as small as you are. Every tear or sound of sadness met with a 'there, there, it'll be alright" and a pat on the head for good measure. As I get older, and the best and worst days of my life continue to find more current dates, I look back and wonder just how much of what I felt was the naivity of a child unwary of just how bad things could get, or if I was truly justified in my moments of sorrow and doubt.
Of course, one could see bursting into tears at the thought of losing a balloon or dropping ice cream as the symptom of inexperience, that they simply haven't had a taste of the real world. But to that child in that moment, is that not quite a large part of it? With only so much experience, is it not understandable to be overwhelmed in the face of new troubles?
I'll never forget just how nervous I felt some days, as I would walk down crowded halls filled with shouting and sickering, and feel my heart creeping into my throat despite not a word finding it's way to my direction, just what was I in fear of?