Perhaps tell him that you don't 'need' to text him, but would love to touch base on occasion because you want to. You can then tell him how it might help you (if you want to). I don't know what's wrong with having a want vs a need and getting that want fulfilled as long as the other person is okay with it too, and I don't know why your t wouldn't as long as it doesn't get out of hand, which I doubt it ever would just based on your post. My t doesn't do texting, but she allows email, but I've never emailed because I don't have the need or want to do so. If I wanted to, I would though as I think some wants are just as important as needs, and some people, myself included, never think they 'need' anyone for anything.