No worries...follow the steps below and you'll get connected for chat in no-time flat.
Jabber is the software the underlies Facebook chat and Google Hangouts. it's open source, and anyone can run a server. Here's the Jabber FAQ
You'll need a chat client (sort of like good ole' AIM). There are alot of choices, but these work best (full list):
You'll have to connect to the server and register a new user. Open up your newly installed Jabber messenger, and click on "New Account".
Add the following information:
Server: gather.info Port: 443 (default)
Somewhere, there will be a "Register New Account". Do that.
You'll have to request permision to contact someone.
I'm matt@gather.info .. add me!