FaceTime, iMessages issues. Need Help!

Can ANYONE tell me how to activate my facetime and imessages on MacBook Pro. I am running Mountain Lion 10.8.2. I see many people are having the same issue with "server encountered an error activating your account" Many suggestions but no definitive answer. C'mon Apple, don't do a Microsoft and just let everybody else firgure it outl What is the deal??

MacBook Pro 2009

Core Duo, 8 gigs ram

750 gig Hybrid Hard Drive