sad but true. i guess in a way it is trying to avoid hurt feelings or disturbances or conflict of any sort. but if you say something and then immediately add "oh well, i'm just saying..." it's almost like saying "well it's only my opinion and that doesn't have to matter to you." but we're all entitled to our own opinions, and people aren't always going to agree. we should try adding to the phrase and say "i'm just saying...because that's what i think, and if you don't like it well THAT'S JUST TOO DARN BAD, ISN'T IT, SMARTY-PANTS???!?!?!?!?" haha well there's no need to take it that far.
(i hope y'all know what i mean, i don't seem to be expressing myself too well today)