Technology is life. I’m sure all college students can attest to the convenience of having the world at the palm of their hands. We can go from productive news browser to nosey Twitter addict by the twitch of our thumbs. More importantly, we can keep in touch with the ones we love, and in some cases, the ones we hate. Shooting a quick reminder to your mom to put money into your bank account or asking your friend to help you with Bisc 160 are among the most important of text messages. However, there is a darker side of texting that often goes undiscussed: the flirtatious text.
This form of communication proves to be bad, whether we’re in a relationship or single. For those of us who are “boo-ed” up (also known as “in a relationship” for my slang-challenged readers), sending out a flirtatious text can be seen as cheating.
Scratch that, it is cheating.
The subtle kissy face to the girl who gave you notes in class is enough to cause your girlfriend to dump or slap you. The consequences are circumstantial.
On the other hand, being single and sending flirtatious texts can also mean bad news. It can cause the boy who helped you carry your bags to think that he is more than your “grocery muscle.”
Many of my friends have been victims of what I call “cheating texting.” On a scale of disrespect from 1-10, this offense is probably a solid 12. Some may argue that since the offense wasn’t physical, it shouldn’t be that big of a deal. Right?
Wrong. Let me explain.
By sending out these messages, the sender shows selfishness, and there is no point in dating someone else if things are all about you. They disregard the dignity of their partner and allow the recipient to gain control of a relationship they are not a part of. This recipient has the ability to discredit or argue against the strength of the relationship. This power should never be given to anyone. Furthermore, your disloyalty in your relationship will cause a loss of your credibility.
Some may argue that their intent was clean, but texting doesn’t decode meaning. It’s a “take me as I am” form of communication. If your significant other were to find out about your sneaky ways, you may find it hard to convince them that you sincerely want to be in a relationship. No matter what you say or do, they may see you as untrustworthy.
For my single readers, the flirtatious text also leads to some unwanted circumstances for you. I’ll keep it brief: Don’t send it if you don’t mean it. It seems today’s society thrives on comments. In a world of Instagram likes and man crush Monday/woman crush Wednesday, we’re all looking for a little compliment to brighten our days. However too much complimenting and flirting can cause your Instagram follower to go from cute to crazy.
Try to keep the comments and text messages to a minimum or you may find yourself being watched. Not the good kind. The creepy kind. Conversely, the sender can find themselves in the creeper role.
Actions may speak louder than words, but the latter are screaming too.
Kaypounyers Maye is a sophomore secondary English education major from Gulfport.
