Luv U...and Goodbye

Has anyone noticed the phrase “Love You” seems to have replaced the word “goodbye” in the English language?  Maybe it’s my imagination, but I swear I hear those two little words used for parting greetings wherever I go.

Lady to esthetician after Brazilian waxing, “Looks great. See you next time. Love you.”

Man to coach after kid’s soccer game, “Great game. See you next time, Bro. Love you.”

While it’s great to love thy neighbor as thyself, I don’t think I’m ready to verbalize that love to the entire world. Sort of loses its meaning in translation.

“Yes, doctor, I drank thirty seven gallons of prep juice and I’m ready for my colonoscopy.  And one more thing before you put me under and probe my interior with that fifty foot roto-rooter…Love You.”

Call me crazy, but I have to wonder where this “Love You” thing is headed if goodbye is banned from the dictionary.

 “Thanks for being a valued customer of Never Works Cable Company, Mr. Smith.  I’m happy we were able to solve your sixteen hour connection problem. If we can help in the future, don’t hesitate to call us. Love You.”

Let’s face it. If we don’t get control of tossing this expression of affection around so casually, where will it all end?

“Attention Super Store Shoppers!  Don’t miss our special in aisle three - buy one can of peas and get six for free. Thanks for shopping with us today. Love You.”

Next time you’re out and about, listen for people loudly expressing love through their cell phones, across parking lots or when leaving restaurants. Then tell me it’s a figment of my imagination.

I may be old fashioned but I think the “Love You” endearment has more impact written on a card tucked in an unexpected bouquet of roses, scribbled on a Christmas present tag or uttered as a breathless whisper in the clinches.

Still, I don’t want to seem unemotional, insensitive, or hardhearted.

So, in closing, may I say, “Thanks for reading. Love You.”