This article, found via @SimoneGrant, seems timely after the realization that I had this weekend:
I HATE TEXT MESSAGING.
Actually, I love text messaging. I have it in unlimited supply and use upwards of 2,000 text messages a month. It is the main form of communication between myself and busy friends and family but, in terms of dating, it’s the devil. It’s given men yet another way to be lazy and unremarkable during romantic pursuit. I’ve gotten to the point where when a guy acquires my number I say, “I don’t really text message.” It’s a lie but what it really means is, “I don’t really text message guys who don’t have the balls to risk going straight to voicemail and leaving a fabulously awkward message.” So that way it’s not really totally a lie… Right?
Gone are the days of gentleman callers coming to the door with flowers and asking your dad for your hand in marriage, a la It’s a Wonderful Life. In its stead are a million technological tidepools for men who are not gung-ho-crazy-about-you to sneak you casually into their busy schedules. Women, collectively, take this as a sign of interest, “But he texts me every day!” or “He always responds quickly to my messages!” Why are we all so impressed by that? A monkey could do it…
I’m sorry ladies but text messages do not mean he is interested in something lasting. Text is preferred for its immediacy and ease of use. It’s probably the most non-commital form of communication available. And anyway, have you ever juggled several guys at once via text? I used to enjoy watching the names stack up against each other. It was like sexy tetris. Now, I happily imagine my own messages wedged between five other girls messages on his Blackberry until the guy’s actions prove otherwise.
Of course, it’s not even just text messaging. Facebook, MySpace and Online Dating are equally culpable in the matter.
Basically, technology has made it that much more difficult to tell the winners from the losers. For now, let’s give all these gentleman the benefit of the doubt with one simple request:
If you really like me, take me seriously and show some class… pick up the phone and risk human interaction. It’s manly, it’s courteous and it’s totally retro-chic.
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