I work on my cars. It's obviously a twisted attempt at a "relationship" with an object but it works for me emotionally. I know if I give something to my car, the time I spent improving it will rewarded with a better experience with my car. I get satisfaction from making improvements on my own and reaping the benefits. The whole "job well done" type of enjoyment.

I've heard the phrase "perception colors reality" but I don't think that's accurate. There is no one reality that we interpret. I think our perception of things creates realities. So we each have our own. Outside sources can influence it, but it's still ours.