Lately, my girlfriend's been complaining that I don't call her enough. But I <em>text message</em> her all day long. Is she onto something? Or should I send her a final "c u l8r"?

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Expert Q+A

Lately, my girlfriend's been complaining that I don't call her enough. But I text message her all day long. Is she onto something? Or should I send her a final "c u l8r"?

ANSWER:

Though texting has its time and place (such as the pithy heads-up that you’re running five minutes late), it should be viewed as a supplement to -- not a replacement for -- live communication. No matter how fast and furious you are on your keypad, it’s only natural that your sweetie pie longs to hear your voice. Show her you’re way smarter than your cell’s T9 prediction and practice picking up your phone rather than just pecking at it.

About the Expert

Thomas P. Farley Nice guy Thomas P. Farley is the creator of the blog What Manners Most, the nightlife correspondent for “Citybuzz” (seen on JetBlue and Continental Airlines flights nationwide) and the host of the Web television show “New York Insider TV.” He is a regular feature writer for Men’s Life Today, and you can follow him @mistermanners and @newyorkinsider.