I enjoy it for what it is; when we win, that was enjoyable, and when we lose, I find something to enjoy, even if it's drinking and ****posting in the gameday chat. I'll retire as a Pats fan when I no longer enjoy it, but it's been a solid 35 years or so and nothing has waned for me. However, I have indeed retired from my expectations that the Pats can simply show up at the game and blow the doors off our opponents and compete for a Super Bowl every year.
I was a Pats fan from birth in 1980, but didn't become truly aware until 1991 or so...not an ideal time for the franchise. Even so, I enjoyed it for what it was, and used to laugh at how hard it was to beat anybody at Madden 93 when playing as the Pats.
I enjoy talking football with other people, talking **** about other teams, and doing all the speculation. I couldn't possibly care less if any of this makes me a "real fan" or not in the eyes of others, an attitude that is even more entrenched as I get into middle life. You can hate on me for being satisfied with six Super Bowls and having only a fool's hope for more. That's your prerogative, and if it makes you happy, carry on with a smile. I'll do the same.