By Rachel Schwarz

Text messages went from non-existent to a necessity in a matter of years. Almost everyone that I know has an unlimited texting plan. After I spent 4th of July weekend in Austin and kept contact with my friends around the country- silently- I began thinking about the pros and cons of this type of communication.

On the up side, texting allows you to be versatile. You can make plans, and stay connected to others without leaving the room to pick up a phone call. It allows you to take a silent break at work without drawing attention to yourself. It’s easier than ever to meet up with friends even if you’re at a concert or a bar because the need for a phone call has become a bit obsolete.

So what’s the downside?

Exhibit A:  A good friend of mine is currently in a long distance relationship. They both have full time schedules, yet they are able to text each other at all hours of the day and night, which is great for them, except that they seem to have forgotten about cell phone etiquette. Text messaging is a convenience, not a replacement for talking and, shock of all shocks, actually being together.

I’m not aware of every aspect of their relationship. However, when I spend time with either of them, it often becomes a three-person date: my friend, the texting, and me. It’s frustrating to have a conversation with someone whose nose is so far in their phone that I don’t feel like there’s any discussion happening at all. It’s exclusionary. It’s rude. It’s diminishing.

Beware! Are you addicted to your texting? Remember that there is an appropriate time and place.

Smart Phones can create Dumb Behavior.