The Elves and the Escalator

Something in our heating ducts has been making funny noises. From our bathroom, it sounds for all the world like an elf tinkering away in his workshop. The elves and I go way back.

For whatever reason, I thought that elves lived below escalators, keeping them running smoothly. I was terribly afraid that if I stumbled getting off the top step, I would get sucked below and the elves would make me pedal the contraption that made the whole thing work.

And while we're on the subject of irrational fears, I was also terrified that a gorilla was going to come into our house at night, because, you know, there's such a plethora of gorillas roaming around rural Indiana. Every night before bed, I would ask my parents if they remembered to lock the doors.

You can add a fear of semi trucks to the nonsense. I would burst into tears every time one passed us on the highway. It must have been such a joy to ride with me.

Still not my favorite things, by the way.

Most ironic of all, was my fear that I didn't have an imagination. I think that came about because I had a bit of writer's block when I was in kindergarten. I can safely say I've overcome that worry.

How about you? Did you have any irrational fears as a child? Please comment.