If you know a relationship would come to an end one day, are you still willing to fall in love? How is it like to be soulmates rather than lovers? This episode might make you reconsider the labels that we use to define romance. Our host Selina sat down with Susan Zhang, director of a short film titled "Love in New York, but not only in New York", and discussed her story-crafting journey in an encounter with two lovers-- Maria and Ken. Love is powerful in and of itself, and as witnesses of which we are empowered as well.

In this episode of East Village Love Stories, Aria Young shared the story of her recent breakup: My ex-boyfriend and I were in a long-distance relationship for one and a half years. Despite the distance, our love was passionate and intense. As an international student in New York, I don’t have family in the states to rely on. So his family became mine. I stayed with his family on holidays and weekends, and he visited me in the city often as well. I was so confident in our partnership and in our future together — until I was proved wrong. What I thought were “healthy disagreements” turned into outbursts of anger from both of us. My insecurities in the relationship clashed with his lack of determination for the future. Questions about my legal status came into play, childhood traumas and personality flaws weighed on our shoulders… While I held the relationship hostage and demanded the security that I wasn’t able to find anywhere else, he pulled away in fear. Towards the end of our relationship, we still loved each other intensely, but he was too exhausted to try again. For me, losing him was more than a breakup, it felt like losing my home. Being young and alone in this country, I am constantly struggling to feel safe and secure. Without a partner to call home, I am now finally learning to find comfort in myself, to love life through my creativity, and to heal my inner child, the child that has been hurt and abandoned before and still feels that way. Bell Hooks said, “Love saves us only if we want to be saved.” Reflecting on my failed relationship, I was not ready for redemption no matter how redeeming love felt. While the loss of a lover still follows me like a shadow, I feel this new journey beginning — a journey of growth and discoveries, a journey I can only go on by myself.

Welcome back! Have you ever wondered what guys' intake of crushes, red and green flags, relationships in highschool vs college, and so much more? In this episode, our host Parker and guests JJ, Felix, and Kayla discuss these topics, as well as give their opinions and personal experiences table-talk style. So sit back, get some popcorn, soda, or whatever. Relax and enjoy!