My Love/Hate Relationship With 'The Bachelorette'

I love to hate it and I hate that I love it. It’s the show of the summer and the show I’ve gotten most of my family addicted to: "The Bachelorette." Of course, I could be doing something much more productive with my Monday nights, but then again, I think the hopeless romantics featured on this show deserve my full attention as they embark on their journey to find love. Why else would they go on the show? They’re looking for attention…I mean for love.

All of America tuned in last Monday night to witness the finale of the show's "most dramatic season," according to Chris Harrison. Tears, confrontation, and one of the worst kept secrets couldn’t tear fans away from Kaitlyn’s emotional season. As the fandom continues to grow into the millions and my own interest hits the five-year mark, I can’t help but wonder what it is that keeps me watching.

It kills me to admit it, but "The Bachelorette" is actually, more often than not, really boring. Although commercials are great for grabbing a snack or a tissue (for the more serious watcher), their length and, more importantly, their frequency, constantly make me wish I never committed to the season in the first place. What bores me even more is the fact that the drama we waited all week to see ultimately takes a backseat, as we can’t go more than two minutes without hearing yet another sob story or about how each bachelor is feeling.

And this could have all been a waste of our time.

However, despite the show's lack of appeal, my favorite part is the commentary that comes from my viewing partners each episode. The limos, the awkward conversations, and the amount of men who say they've met their wife after a five minute conversation leads to a night full of laughter and an assurance that despite the state of your romantic life, you still haven't reached rock bottom. You don't feel the need to audition to find your wife in an average woman who is simultaneously dating 25 other men.

But, if you did find yourself at that audition, I hope even an episode can help you realize that the real winners are the losers.