Many great inventions have come out of the Industrial Revolution, including the cellphone with its great advantage - texting.
Texting is a boon to modern life as it makes communication simpler in this fast, ever-changing modern world.
The fast and simple quality of texting is one of its major benefits.
It is very easy to get distracted while calling.
Or we can zone out and stop focusing on the person speaking, possibly missing important details.
In addition, if we are unable to reach a person, we can be completely unprepared when we reach voicemail, stuttering and saying the wrong thing or again leaving out important details.
When we send a text, however, we can check it for details and know it will be seen at some point.
Another reason why texting is a boon to modern life (especially teen life) is that it is cheap.
At only 20c or less to send a message, we don't hesitate to send all the texts we need - and we're able to spend our money on other items.
Proof-checking our words - are there times we wish we could take back what we've just said?With texting, we can backspace and change what we are going to send so that our message includes all the details and makes sense.
It also avoids the unintentional accidental spilling of a secret like a birthday present!Being able to change sentences also prevents us accidentally offending someone.
This is very useful as phrasing and meanings are ever-changing, with words gaining, through wide use, nuances that are different from the dictionary sense.
While texting is a big bonus for our generation, it has sadly made it easier for bullies to hurt others.
It enables these cowards to send malicious messages to their victims while remaining anonymous.
They cower behind their phone. But bullies will find all sorts of ways to hurt others - texting is just the latest.
And just because some people misuse technology, it doesn't mean that all will.
Texting is like many other features of technology. It is only good if used correctly and with good intent.
Texting is now taken for granted.
It's an integral part of our lives. Its low cost and convenience have increased both the volume of social interaction and our sense of connectedness.
Some disadvantages have emerged but if everyone respects texting, it can be positive for all.
• By Mickayla May, Year 10, Blue Mountain College
