I'm not sure I've ever really understood the concession to the ego when taking the path of least affective resistance. The compromise of sacrificing grand meaning and memorability for the sake of consistent structure with regard to psychological fulfillment. Consistency has its place in health concerns, monetary pursuits, and other areas where efficiency is prized.
It has no place in matters of the heart, if that's what you want to call them, despite the heart's lack of involvement in the process.
Choose to accept a reality where your own self-worth hinges on the constant tepid sentimentality of a singular other saying "I love you" when they hang up the phone. Heartwarming common courtesy. I can't shake the feeling that it's simply another efficient egotistical exception. Prizing ease of communication over memorable emotional reward. I've tried it. I meant it. I'm not convinced. Over and again I reach the conclusion that the only worthwhile affective interaction is that which catches its recipient completely off-guard.
Why did I say 'Thanks, take care.' when I meant 'You have pretty hair. It's curly.'