Making plans isn't rocket science. At least, it shouldn't be. But with the advent of cellphones, specifically text messaging, there is ample room for error. For example, the following text series can be interpreted in two ways (apparently).
"Let's grab drinks Friday"
"Sounds good"
Interpretation A) This is a plan. An idea was suggested by one party and accepted by the other. One of the two texters gets ready Friday night in anticipation of final details.
Interpretation B) This is not a plan. One of the texters pretends this conversation never happened and gives no notice that he or she is not in fact meeting up for drinks.
Why is this constant miscommunication allowed to persist? It is frustrating and lazy. In my own life I have come across it on numerous occasions. As you might have surmised, I usually fall into Interpretation A. It gets kind of old but I am no longer surprised when I get stood up (for lack of a better phrase) due to texting vagaries.
I feel that as part of the first generation of texters, we owe it to posterity to develop appropriate texting communication etiquette. Cellphones should not be used as an easy out. Classic examples: "Sry running 10 min late!" "Sry, already left Club Fancy-Pants, now @ Brew Pub McGoo". Guys, this is so lame! We need to cultivate a respect for making plans and sticking to them! It's really not that hard. In fact since the origin of humankind, that has been the only way of developing any kind of lasting relationship with others. Naturally, I put more stock and effort into friendships and relationships that I can rely on - and I take into account texting behavior. Last minute cancels or straight-up silence doesn't fly with me. Yes, some might accuse me of being uptight but you don't see me hanging out with them, do you? Personally, I prefer the term reliable.
