Why do you have to add a member to your friends list before you can send them a

I probably cuts down on people getting random messages from people they do not want to communicate with. I find it a little irritating as well.

I kinda agree too. I would prefer to receive a message before a friend request...then at least I would get a message form them saying why they are interested in being my friend instead of mega requests trying to boost one's popularity. But I also understand why they stop messages. It stops alot of people from arguing behind the discussions. If someone doesn't like my opinion and they could send me a message, then I could be harrassed because they do not like my opinion.