Some linguists are, apparently, worried that text messaging "will enforce sloppy, undisciplined habits among American youths", reports AP. The examples given are, of course, extremely old hat. Abbreviations such as BTW and AFAIK have been in use for at least two decades in computer communications, and the Purple Prince of Paisley Park has been using U for you for as long as I can remember. Surely a few linguists at least heard the Sinead O'Connor version of Nothing Compares 2 U. Either way, I'd take the contrary view: I think text messaging stimulates linguistic awareness and creativity. I'm just sorry it hasn't produced anything as good as the humble postage stamp, which got people writing things like NORWICH (Knickers Off Ready When I Come Home) on the outside of envelopes.