There are a lot of things affecting amateur radio:

1) Modern "instant gratification" technology
2) Public perception of amateur radio.
3) "Easier" modern technology
4) Change in the "social networking" scene around the world.

If I had to choose a communications device that has all of the following, what would I choose?

- Nationwide and/or Global Reach
- Offline message storage in case I don't answer
- Can reach all of my friends directly
- Can take it to work without people gawking over it.
- Can take on an airplane or through security and not be further scrutinized.
- Doesn't require that I take a test. Hmm... perhaps there needs to be an etiquette test for every electronic device.