iChat with AIM Help

Hi, I need some help with iChat using AIM. I used to use just AIM on my PC before getting my iBook, and it seems as though iChat works different than AIM.

First of all, I got an away message on, but I was wondering where the box is where you can view who sent you messages while away, just like regular AIM.

Second, say I put an away message on, and I leave my computer be, its still turned on, its just the screen shuts off after a few mins. Will my away message still be on when I leave my iBook be? I tried this, and when I came back, my buddy list was in the dock, and when I clicked on it, it brough up my buddy list, and connected again. How can I leave it running with my away message?

I really want to use iChat, but if none of what I said is possible, then I guess i'll be getting a version of AIM for mac. I really don't wanna do it because iChat is easier, but whoever made iChat should've put more into its compatability with AIM. Thanks.