In this life, we live in a way that conforms to the standards and norms society sets for us. We were born with our parents telling us what to do and what to be, teachers teaching us what’s wrong and what’s right, employers owning most of our time every day so we can have money to feed our families. We got so used to being dictated and following a set of dos and don’ts that sometimes we forget about ourselves — our own paths, dreams, and identity.
What do I want? What do I need? What do I love?
Madrid based animators Daniel Martinez Lara and Rafa Cano Mendez created the short film “Alike” that highlights how society, our educational system, and the daily grind teaches us to live our lives. Nevermind if it slowly kills our creativity and crushes our dreams.
The story centers on Copi, “…a father who tries to teach the right way to his son Paste,” and learns something from it in the process. It shows how our parents mold us to be just like them — to be the best they think we can be. But sometimes, children need to figure things out in their own way too, and be the best for their own selves.
Alike reminds us that we are not born to live a robotic life. We are not studying just because society needs more people with diplomas. We did not graduate just so we can have a standard job that just pays the bills. We are not here to be just like everybody else — living, surviving, and slowly dying.
It’s okay to be different. It’s okay to let loose sometimes and break from the norms of society. It’s okay to breathe for a second without the pressure and unsolicited opinion of others. It’s okay to just be happy and live however the hell you want to. Because this life is yours. Don’t be afraid to own it.
Go out there and explore. Do everything you can to find something that lets you do what you love and gets you what you need.
In a world where everything is dull and gray, be the freaking rainbow that colors the dark clouds. Never lose your color.
