Texting is the new craze. To be cool, you must be able to text. This has become just as important as owning a cell phone. Many people are using their cell phones simply to text and nothing more. If you have seen commercials for cell phones, you will notice how the most popular phones have a miniature keyboard or some way to make texting easier. Several years ago, instant messaging was the craze. Think of texting as the new instant messenger. For those who are unfamiliar with the term, texting is typing a message to another person on your cell phone. Is this better than actually talking on the cell phone, though?
A recent car crash, resulting in the deaths of four teenagers, was caused by texting. First, let me say that this could have happened to anyone, not just teens. Numerous news stories have focused on the dangers of using a cell phone while driving. All cell phone companies offer some type of texting package. Reality and game shows are only helping to increase the popularity of texting. For example, shows like Deal or No Deal allow you to text your entry to play their case game. Few people look at the charges. Most votes cost $.99 per text message along with any charges from your cell phone company. Live play games on Game Show Network also allow you to play from your cell phone by texting your answers. There is absolutely nothing wrong with this. It is fun and easy to participate with something as simple as your cell phone.
Normally, when someone thinks of a cell phone, they think of actually speaking to another person. However, typing a message seems to be becoming more popular. Laws are beginning to appear banishing users from talking on their phones while driving. Some apply only to teens, others to everyone. So far, little has been done to even warn users of the risks of texting while driving. Would you rather someone talk or type while at the wheel? At least Bluetooth technology is an option so users have both hands at the wheel.
Is texting bad? No. In fact, during a meeting or in a library or anywhere that isn’t cell phone friendly; texting can be a wonderful alternative to keep in touch with others. Cell phone users simply need to be aware to that texting can be just as dangerous, if not more so, than actually talking on the phone while driving. Sometimes, it really is safer to call the person instead of risking the lives of yourself and others to send a text message. Use your best judgment and everyone can enjoy the benefits of texting for years to come.
