Instead of gravitating towards fictional characters in books, today's society gets attached to the ones on screen. Whether you binge watch shows for hours on end or watch your weekly show that premieres every Sunday night, you know how easy it can be to get attached to characters. There is no rhyme or reason why you cling to them. It may be that you like their attitude or the complexity of their being. I personally like characters who are completely different from how I am. In some characters you can even see pieces of yourself, which makes them relate to you on a variety of levels.
We start out on a journey with these characters from the very beginning. It is just you and them. You form this connection that you yourself only knows exists. Their emotions, baggage and life lessons become yours. Then when you least expect it, out of nowhere something happens...tragedy strikes! These different television shows will put you through the ringer. The writers know how to reel you in just enough for you to keep watching until they side swipe you with something you never even saw coming. Although this is all fictional, it still is real for some. It could be death, love, natural disasters or even them leaving the show. It feels like a loss to you. You will carry the burden of your favorite character dying everyday. When big life moments happen for some characters, you are there to witness them. You celebrate in their glories and support in their struggles. Before you know it, you'll find yourself waking up or day dreaming about this whole other life you "have." You are suddenly wondering what the character is going to do next or who they will choose or if they will ever find out the truth. When you finish the show, it feels like a good break up and yet longing for the joinery together to connote. Suddenly you find new "friends," new characters, and a new journey to embark on.
If you are like me and enjoy re-watching television shows that you have seen beginning to end, you already know the heart-wrenching saga you are about to begin. I still watch them because it's often like the comfort of an old friend. They are always going to be there when you expect them to be there. They give you what you need when you need it, and comfort you only in a way that they can. So bring on the tears, heartache and laughter because you're in for one hell of a ride and we are still watching.
