Skype on Windows is also a disaster. I only use it to instant message, not call, and it still takes multiple minutes to start up. I really want an alternative b

Skype on Windows is also a disaster. I only use it to instant message, not call, and it still takes multiple minutes to start up. I really want an alternative but have been lazy about making the switch. Maybe today will be the day I do that. Any good alternative IM clients with cross platform support?