L used to tell me that all the time on her leave. Pissed me off because she wasn't there, she wasn't with me.

I always worry that if I tell her what to say then she'll just say it because she knows that's what I want to hear. Kind of like, I'd rather H tell me he loves me without any suggestions than to ask him if he loves me. I want her to be able to read my mind or at least read what I need. But I have to remember a few things: 1. We have honesty first policy. 2. She can't read minds, 3. She recently told me that by not telling her what I need, that that makes her feel like she has to walk on eggshells. Last one was an eye opener for me. I don't know if any of that helps you?

For alternative things to say:
* I understand
* I'm holding it with you
* You are in my mind/thoughts/heart
* I hear you