Break down barriers to love

You deserve love in your life. It is one of human’s most basic needs and has been wired into us since we were young. However, to have love, you have to open your heart to it. Invite it in!

So what does it take to have more love in your life? You must have the courage to voice it, to show it, and to #MakeYourMove when opportunity comes. You yourself must break the barriers keeping you from going after who could make you happy.

You may not be comfortable expressing your feelings. You may be afraid of being vulnerable, to be rejected, or be judged for the object of your affections. It’s normal to have moments of doubts and hesitation. Remember though, that these uncertainties are just temporary mindsets. You can definitely break free from them.

You are #FreetoLove anyone you want. All it takes is a dose of bravery to face your fears, just like the characters in the newest short films from Close Up.

Is age really just a number? If so, why do age-gap couples still raise some eyebrows? The negative stigma attached to this kind of relationship makes people shy away at the idea of pursuing a potential partner with a major age difference. However, age shouldn’t be a defining factor in whether or not you date someone; it has to be the person’s level of maturity. Pam and John might be set apart by their ages, but their interests match just the same. So don't mind the age gap and simply follow your heart.

Dating can be hard, but it can be even harder for those whose sexual orientations don’t fall under what society thinks is ‘normal’. While the Philippines have become more open to unconventional relationships, there are still people who are less accepting. But society can’t dictate how you should live; only you know how to make yourself happy. Let Raffy remind you that love knows no gender. It doesn't discriminate. So go ask that person out now.

Can it be true love if your parents are against the relationship --- due to socioeconomic reasons? Your partner’s ability to give you financial security is one of the things most parents look out for in their child’s dating choices. Help them understand that both you and your partner are both willing to put in the effort to make the relationship work. Respect your parents’ opinions, but remember to draw healthy boundaries. After all, it’s just you and your partner who are in a relationship. Do what Bryan and Ella did: they didn't allow self-doubts and socioeconomic status ruin their second chance at finding happiness together.

Love will find a way into your life if you are brave enough to act on it. Close Up’s #MakeYourMove short films are here to remind everyone that they deserve to be happy, to care for someone and be cherished in return, no matter what their preferences or circumstances are in life. In the end, love, in all its forms, will always be worth fighting for.