Dear Annie: Bad SMS Communication

Dear Annie: Many of your letters come from disgruntled people who feel alienated by other people’s text messages.

I think it’s important to understand that when you read a text message, you don’t hear the inflection of the person’s voice. The sender’s words can be perceived completely differently by the person reading it.

A simple phone call followed by a text message can resolve many misunderstandings. — Wiser in North Carolina

Dear Wiser: Wise words indeed. I know many people who have found themselves in huge arguments over misunderstandings that occurred over text messages.

Reserve text messages for light conversations, words of encouragement, and basic logistical tasks only. Anything else deserves a phone call.