Dear Annie: So many of your letters come from disgruntled people who feel alienated by other people’s text messages.

I think it is important to realize that when you read a text message, you do not hear the inflection of the person’s voice. The sender’s words can come across totally differently to the person reading it.

A simple phone call following up a text might solve many misunderstandings. — Wiser in North Carolina

Dear Wiser: Wise words indeed. I know many people who have ended up in huge arguments over misunderstandings that arose over text message.

Reserve texts for light chitchat, words of encouragement and basic logistics only. Anything other than that deserves a phone call.

Read more Dear Annie and other advice columns.

“How Can I Forgive My Cheating Partner?” is out now! Annie Lane’s second anthology — featuring favorite columns on marriage, infidelity, communication and reconciliation — is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit Creators Publishing for more information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to [email protected].