Have you got the most up-to-date version. If you are running MSN Messenger 7.5 then the latest build is 0324 (I think) and if you are running Windows Live Messenger Beta, then the latest build is 0689.00_Branches (definately). If you are running WLM, it is only a beta, and therefore has bugs in it. Try uninstalling it and downloading MSN Messenger 7.5.
Meat Loaf 6642 days, 11 hours, 41 minutes, 3 seconds ago and in 6417 days, 11 hours, 41 minutes, 3 seconds ago!!!