I have some metta problem

I have personal problems with the metta practice. I would say may I/you be happy and I would go in this wish fulfilment mode. Imagining myself and others happy would create a jinni in the bottle attitude. It would become this deluded practice. 1. How can I wish people to be happy when I know this wish wont come true? 2. How can I wish people to be happy whithout going into this prayer mode? Can I use words like "I hope you be happy"? Or maybe I find joy" Is metta hoping? Or attitude of maybes?