So, I’ve been reading some criticism and jeers about my beloved state this morning on other people’s blogs and I’d like to clear up some misconceptions…
“Don’t Mess With Texas” – This originally began as an anti-litter campaign and has taken on a life of its own. On any given day in the Greater Austin area, you will find at least one person wearing a burnt-orange t-shirt, with the motto printed in orange as a show of support for The University of Texas athletic program (namely football)
The State Flag and Motto – For those of you who are not familiar with our history, Texas was a Republic from 1836 until 1845. It is the ONLY state in the United States to have been it’s own country prior to statehood. Our flag, with the “lone” star and our motto, “The Lone Star State” are representative of this fact.
Pride – Here in Texas, we feel that we have a lot to be proud of… No matter your particular political affiliation, we have produced several presidents, we claim Walter Cronkite and Dan Rather, movie stars, a booming TV, music, and film industry, 7 of the top 50 most populated cities in the US, we are the largest state in the continental United States (Alaska is larger, but isn’t part of the 48), the #1 North American computer manufacturer, Texas is the home base for MULTIPLE corporations, the site of one of the largest music and independent film festivals in the US, our gorgeous native-granite state capitol building is taller than the one in DC, and the list goes on and on and on… Yes, we have a lot of pride. Deservedly so. We fought our asses off for it...
People joke that we’re just a bunch of redneck, racist hicks who live in trailers and chew tobacco. Well, we are the 2nd largest state in the United States by population, so we do have our fair share of people who fit that description. I could say the same thing for just about every state in the US. Show me a state that has no close-minded losers in the population. I dare you.
Is the fact that Texas is seen as a “red” or “conservative” state the problem? It seems to me that people tend to bash the things they both disagree with and don’t understand. So get to know some true Texans before you run off and make fun of the things that make my home special. I can tell you this much, though, we do have our fair share of well-educated, open-minded, conservative, downright NICE people here. You can’t beat good ole Texas hospitality! And since it is bad manners to dicuss religion and politics at the supper table, there won't be any arguments over personal beliefs. We respect your right to your own opinions.
So come on down for a visit y’all. Even in this ghastly heat, we’ll throw some rib eyes on the grill, party on the lake, and get good and sloshed over some ice-cold Shiner Bock. You just might find that you’re actually having a good time with these dang ole country bumpkins!
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