Social Commentary: On Texting

I’ve head a cellphone for years now, but one thing that has never really caught my interest as a truly viable means of communication is texting.  I have occasionally had conversations over text messages, but only a few have been more than ten messages long.  I don’t text to say “hey” or anything like that.  The only times that I send texts is when I do not know whether the person can or should answer the phone.  However, I have seen texting becoming more and more THE way that you talk to people.  I can see the allure of texting.  It is pretty easy.  Its non-invasive of people’s time like an actual phone call may be.  Also, you can have multiple conversations at once.

The biggest reason that I am very much considering adding texting to my phone plan is that it can me used as a micro-email system.  Its a quick, easy way to invite someone somewhere, send an update about a event, or just tell them a joke.  However, I have seen some people I know become more enthralled with their texting life that actual personal interaction.  They use it as a mobile MSN or AOL messenger, simply having small talk and perhaps, at times, ignoring others they are around.  It is good to be connected, but you also need to know when you should disconnect yourself from online and texting life and enter real life.

Texting is a great way to stay in touch and keep people informed, but at the same time, know when to leave your phone behind and spend time with real people.