Shoutbox

I just installed Messenger Plus so i could have multi colored text and i have icons in my text box,, so i can't see what i am typing until i hit enter and it is sent to my buddy i am texting,,, because there is icons in the box,,,, how do i fix this problem,,, and i can't figure out how to make my text multicolored is this possible,,,, please help,,,,,, 
Angel....