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Health & Fitness

Send. Oops, Wrong Person!

The text message that wasn't supposed to be read.

You read an OMG text from your sister telling you not to bother coming to your niece’s birthday party this weekend; for a moment, you wonder where that came from, then you realize that you sent the, “I wish I didn’t have to go to a kids’ party…boring,” message to the wrong person.

The expediency of corresponding via social media is quickly replacing the old-school style of letter writing and calling. Taking time to write a note or a letter allowed time for thought, review and revisions. Shouldn’t we apply the same attention to our texts and e-mail messages? Along with convenience comes dilemma.

Cleaning up your e-mail blunder is the same as cleaning up after a verbal gaffe. Once you become aware of your unintentional offense, pick up the telephone and call the person. Don't hide or avoid it; apologize and offer a reasonable explanation. “I’m burned out from work and needed quiet time this weekend,” or, “You know I love you, I’m just not in the right frame of mind for this.”

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If she is still upset with you, keep in mind that you didn’t insult her privately. Your insult is known beyond the boundaries of your relationship. Text and e-mail messages are public domain; who else will read it?

What has this done to your reputation? Can you be trusted? Use common sense when sending out hurtful, unkind, whiny, gossip-filled messages; use the telephone for that.

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