I edited your above post so you could see how the shorter URL is created.
Just go back up to your post and click "Modify" to look at the code.
Also when you create a new post or reply you should see a row or two of buttons above the text box. One button looks like a small globe and when you put your mouse on it the title "Insert Hyperlink" comes up.
Click on that button to help you create a shorter URL.
You may not be able to see the buttons I'm talking about or the buttons may not work for you if your computer does not have Java Script enabled.
If you need more help creating shorter URL's please start a new topic so we can keep this one on topic.