How do I save texts received in Messages as text files on my hard drive

Luis, thanks

Yes, I kinda knew that and use it.

But you can't truly automate the task if each message is stored in a folder specific to the contents of the message. So it really doesn't do the trick.

Why can't the messages app on my desktop take a message and save it as a pdf or text file to wherever I point to in the (as yet non-existent) save dialogue box? Seems possible. Once the digits enter my computer and form words on the screen, they would seem to be accessible to the MacOS like any other text.

But then who am I to know how all this magic works?

But do you agree that my solution is devoutly to be desired? For you too!!