@NuttsnBoltsUm, no. There are people I am not friends with but still enjoy their presence on my feed.
My diplomat-and-analyst mode is switched on for this, so remember this: I still see you as an acquaintance (shy of being a solid friend) so everything I say in the following is purely to assess the best possible way we can deal with the matter at hand, okay?
Onwards. Buckle up.
The suggestion of yours is inconvenient. Namely because: (1) it becomes a requirement to add the person, which expands my Friendlist, making the roster look clunky and long - a mortal enemy for a procrastinator to feel motivated; (2) I have to check their profile, which is extra work because I r slothz; (3) you can't Like a status on someone's profile.
...
In the case that someone ever suggest we dump status liking:
Now, regarding why I don't mind the "Likes" for statuses is because, if someone told a good joke or useful tip, why not show some appreciation? It doesn't cost you anything, and let's face the truth: it's sad but some people do need their presence validated by virtual currency of fame. Maybe they have a battle we don't know of. If my single Like makes them feel less crappy, why not?