i deleted the mesages icon, how do i get it back? tried dragging it from app store without success

You can’t delete the messages app; you can only remove it from your Home screen. Go to the App Library (the last page of the Home screen) and drag it back to where you want it.

You will have to try harder. The Messages app is in the App Library. When you get to the App Library drag down and you will see an alphabetical list of apps, scroll down to Messages. Or enter “messages” in the search field. Then put your finger on it and drag it to the left.