It is just the modern day way of doing things, think back when you were young and you spoke a different language than your parents, slang today is just different. If I don't know what something stands for I look it up! People are in a hurry, it is the in thing to do. Ranting I don't think will change it,
Edited to add, this is a result of everyone using a smart phone and texting I believe, if I had to type on one of those I would use every shortcut I could also.
One more edit to add: A quick reference.
http://www.smart-words.org/abb...
