My advice is read the memo and ignore, get the newpaper out and let the cabin crew do the goodbyes in the time honoured way, the pax.
I had the same attitude when it was first 'encouraged'. Having made an effort to be a little less blinkered I quickly learned that the majority of passengers appreciate it and, suprisingly, so do the cabin crew.
It is human nature to condemn any changes out of hand, and I am the first to agree that many do seem odd at first glance, but, notwithstanding the physical difficulties, make the effort after completing your duties and you may change your mind.