When a friend starts posting negative remarks about people who don’t use iMessage, the tone of the chat can shift quickly. You want to stay friendly, keep the conversation productive, and protect the feelings of everyone involved. Below are steps you can follow, plus ready‑to‑use sentences that help you reply with confidence.
1. Pause before you type
A quick breath gives you time to choose words that don’t add fuel to the fire.
- Think about why the comment bothers you.
- Ask yourself if the reply will improve the mood or simply echo the criticism.
I hear your frustration, but I prefer to keep the chat positive.
I understand you’re upset, yet I’d like to focus on something lighter.
2. Show empathy without endorsing the negativity
Acknowledging feelings shows you listen, while steering away from the blame.
- Use phrases that validate emotion but do not repeat the insult.
Sounds like you had a rough day with the group chat.
I get why you feel annoyed, still I think we can find a better way.
3. Set a gentle boundary
Clear limits keep future messages from slipping into the same pattern.
- State what you are comfortable discussing.
- Keep the tone calm and direct.
I’m not comfortable sharing negative thoughts about others here.
Let’s keep talk focused on topics we all enjoy.
I’d rather not continue this line of conversation.
4. Offer an alternative perspective
Redirect the talk toward solutions or neutral subjects.
- Suggest a different activity or ask a neutral question.
What if we plan a group call that works for everyone, iMessage or not?
Have you tried texting them on a different platform?
What’s a fun meme you saw recently?
5. Use humor sparingly
A light joke can dissolve tension, but be sure it does not mock the person being discussed.
Looks like my phone is the only one getting a break from drama!
If my messages were a movie, they’d be a comedy, not a tragedy.
6. Bring up shared values
Reminding the group of common ground can shift focus back to unity.
We all value staying connected, regardless of the app we use.
Our friendship matters more than the texting service.
7. Know when to step away
If the negativity persists, it’s okay to exit the chat temporarily.
I’m stepping out for a bit, will catch up later.
I need some quiet time, talk later.
8. Follow up privately if needed
A one‑on‑one message can address the root issue without putting anyone on the spot.
Hey, I noticed the chat got tense. Can we talk about what’s bothering you?
I care about our friendship, let’s discuss how we can keep the vibe positive.
9. Keep the tone consistent
Use the same level of politeness in all replies. This signals that you are steady and not reacting emotionally.
Thanks for sharing your view, I’ll think about it.
Appreciate your honesty, let’s keep it constructive.
10. Reinforce good behavior
When the friend switches to a neutral or positive comment, acknowledge it.
Great point, I like that you brought up a solution.
Thanks for changing the subject, feels better.
Quick reference list of sentences you can copy‑paste
I hear your frustration, but I prefer to keep the chat positive.
I understand you’re upset, yet I’d like to focus on something lighter.
Sounds like you had a rough day with the group chat.
I get why you feel annoyed, still I think we can find a better way.
I’m not comfortable sharing negative thoughts about others here.
Let’s keep talk focused on topics we all enjoy.
I’d rather not continue this line of conversation.
What if we plan a group call that works for everyone, iMessage or not?
Have you tried texting them on a different platform?
What’s a fun meme you saw recently?
Looks like my phone is the only one getting a break from drama!
If my messages were a movie, they’d be a comedy, not a tragedy.
We all value staying connected, regardless of the app we use.
Our friendship matters more than the texting service.
I’m stepping out for a bit, will catch up later.
I need some quiet time, talk later.
Hey, I noticed the chat got tense. Can we talk about what’s bothering you?
I care about our friendship, let’s discuss how we can keep the vibe positive.
Thanks for sharing your view, I’ll think about it.
Appreciate your honesty, let’s keep it constructive.
Great point, I like that you brought up a solution.
Thanks for changing the subject, feels better.
By pausing, showing empathy, setting boundaries, and offering alternatives, you protect the group’s mood and keep the texting space welcoming. Use the sample sentences as a toolbox; adapt them to fit your voice and the specific situation. When you stay calm and purposeful, the conversation stays on track, and friendships stay strong.
Be kind ❤
