You don't want to get hurt once again, so you build walls around yourself. You stay away from anything that resembles love, because love means hope, and hope has always led you down the same path of disappointment. It's good to be protective of your feelings, but don't let the past keep you from the joy and comfort of new relationships. Love is always a risk. It requires you to step out of your shell, beyond your walls. And it's true, that there's no guarantee if your heart will get broken or not, but give people a chance. Give yourself a fresh chance at love. If you feel a connection with someone, you owe it to yourself to explore what it could be. Maybe it doesn't work out, but at least you get to have the knowledge that you gave it a shot - that instead of letting your past hold you back, you chose to be brave and love.