If Emma was still with Neal she wouldn’t have become the person she is now as Phe stated. Emma had to be strong otherwise she would not have stayed when Regina threatened her and everything else that happened to her whilst she stayed in Storybrooke. What happened with Neal would’ve been tough for her, but its not what she needed to grow up. I just think that August is copping to much hate for sticking to his responsibilities and having good intentions.
Also, I don’t believe in destiny. That would mean we have no control over our actions and therefore no real free will.
Isn’t one of the themes in the show about destiny.. It was Emma’s destiny to be the saviour, but she still had control over her actions. She made her own choice to save the town and fulfill her destiny, she could’ve easily walked away- which she almost did.