I have to refresh the gmail app everytime I want to see new emails. How do I get gmail messages to arrive automatically?

On an Android 1.6 device (which you don't have) go to settings / data synchronization / and check google mail, as well as auto sync and background data. This means that when an email is received by the gmail server, it sends a notification to your phone informing it that a message has been received.

If you want to get very specific, go to the gmail app / menu / more / settings / Send & Receive / Set Download Frequency / choose your selection. If those options aren't available, then you are left with using the standard auto push, from what I understand.

-----
Recommended reading for new AndroidPIT members! Important to all community members: the AndroidPIT Forum rules

Thanks. Problem solved.