Problem with Blackberry Pearl?

I have messed up accessing my text messaging on my "Blackberry" Pearl....when noticed that I have received a text and access the folder there is nothing there. I have to go into my contact list and guess who might be texting and check that way...can anyone help me out. I also have difficulty accessing my email ....I have to access the brower to receive my mail....VERY FRUSTRATED....PLEASE HELP!