I'd never use text-speak by preference. I can understand how folks may want to shorten the time it takes to compose a text message when they are fighting with their own failing eye-sight, fingers that are larger than the tiny key-pad areas on their phone, and the 'inability' to recall how to spell correctly, in the first place.
However,....
When I read this same abbreviated mumbo-jumbo, especially when it mimics certain speech-patterns that are so prevailent in the ghettos, it fills me first with pity, that the author seems incapable of properly expressing him- or herself. But, then, it leaves me with the impression that that individual has had either a poor or non-existent education,... I then wind up asking myself if I'm going to interact with the individual in some sort of prejudicial manner, and even, "How old is this idiot, really?"
These questions and feelings interfere with any possible positive interaction. So, rather than put yourself at a disadvantage, why not just use the qwerty-keyboard, and type complete words and sentences? Unless your desire is to be perceived as a likely dolt.....
Feb 21, 2008 @ 21:37:56
That's right, get it all out, hon. We're here for you. We feel your pain 
