Here's why:
* Letter-to-number correspondence: The letters I, L, and U in "I Love You" correspond to the numbers 1, 12, and 21 respectively. When these numbers are added together (1 + 12 + 21), the result is 34. Taking the first three digits of 34 (3, 4) gives you the number 34. This is a common, but somewhat arbitrary, way of assigning numerical values to words.
* 143 as a shorthand: Over time, people started abbreviating "I Love You" as "ILY" and then, using the letter-to-number association, further shortened it to "143." This made it easier to use in text messages and social media, where space can be limited.
However, it's important to note that:
* 143 is not officially recognized as a code for "I Love You" by any language or organization. It's just a playful, cultural association.
* The meaning of "143" can vary depending on context. In some cases, it might just be a simple way to express affection, while in others it could carry a deeper meaning.
Ultimately, 143 is a number like any other, but it's gained a special place in modern communication due to its playful association with "I Love You."