Has anyone figured it out.  Messenger is so frustrating. Please MS: HELP! I can use the Windows7 side, Android, and MAC all work perfect. Metro side of Windows 8 and I get... first wait and then We can't send a message right now...  I have done everything in this forum.  I will await your updates Microsoft! Please keep me in the loop.

Messenger is so frustrating.

Are you holding out against Skype?  That's not likely to be a winning strategy.   <eg>

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/messenger/messenger-to-skype

(Microsoft search for
    skype messenger
)

 
Good luck