by Diane Howells

Created on: June 28, 2008   Last Updated: September 14, 2010

Why is there a debate here? Is text messaging real communication? Is emailing communication? Is talking real communication? I am absolutely amazed that there would even be a debate in this subject. I can not see anyone having a no response here and if they do will be seriously wanting to see their logic for a no.

In Webster's Dictionary part of the definition of the term communication is: Means of sending messages, orders, etc. including telephone, telegraph, radio, and television. I believe we can safely written letter, email and text message.

In this day if immediate communication we all carry cell phones. But what if you are at work or in a meeting and can not pick up the phone and carry on a conversation? Well the obvious answer is to text. In out little hand held device we have the ability to make telephone calls, leave voice mails, to scan the Internet and our email and this wonderful communication tool called text messages.

My journey into text messaging came when my 15 year old decided I should not call him when he is out with his friends. But I have been called to go into work and how will he get into the house? Does he actually have his house key on him? Or Dad and I are going to the store, are you coming home? Do you need anything? Do you have your key? He preferred I not communicate these messages to him through the phone. Take a lot of teasing at 15 when Mommy calls you when you are hanging out with the guys. However, if Mom text messages you that is okay. At first I am painfully typing out messages. A r e y o u 2 ooops c...you get the idea. Then I decided to go with a short hand version. R U c o m i n g ... Then I discovered this wonderful feature that allows you to type in a letter or two and entire words pop up, you pick the one you need to relay your message. Of course most phones also have pre typed messages you can insert and you can even add a few custom quotes of our own. It is a wonderful tool. I can text my husband that I will be working late. I can ask my son when he will be home. I can ask if we need milk and all in the matter of a few seconds with no ringing phone. A gentle vibrate delivers my message, a few keystrokes done discretely deliver the answer. If this is not communication I have no idea what is. Not only is it communication, but I believe it is quick, easy and a lot more polite in public then answering and talking on a ringing cell phone. I would much rather see someone in a checkout line type a message in their phone and hit send then to stand there and listen to them loudly carry on a private conversation in the line.

I've also found that text messaging has opened a new line of commuincation. My son's buddy's now think I am a cool Mom and I get text messages. But now when a message opens with Mom I have to double check the sender to be certain which of "my kids" have sent it. If it is not real communication I have absoluitely no idea what is.

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