messengers question

[Maxwell Ivey Jr.]

Hello;  I've been having trouble trying to use instant messaging.  It  
seams that ichat was easier to use in tiger than it is in leopard.   
Its frustrating that I can't add my yahoo friends to it.  Its also  
agrivating that even my aol friends can't be added unless they have an  
aim account.  Is there something I'm missing as far as adding  
buddies.  I've read the help files, but nothing seams to click in my  
mind.  Then there is yahoo messenger.  It seams a little more  
accessible, but it isn't easy to add contacts that aren't yahoo  
addresses.  Is there an accessible messenger client that will allow me  
to have all of my contacts in one place?  I'll appreciate any help any  
of you can give me here.  Also, if any of you have any tricks for  
using skype, please email me as well.  I really want to be able to  
send and receive texts as well as make calls over the internet like  
lots of people do now days.  Take care and thanks again, Max