A Texas Trip
In November 2023, I was delighted to spend several days with two awesome folks, Martin and Yamine, in Texas. We had the opportunity to experience the launch of Spaceship 2 (thanks, Elon!) and explore Texas and especially Houston and Austin.
The entire trip was fantastic. However, one thing stood out: Texans are extremely friendly and polite. We encountered friendly drivers, friendly people in Walmarts, friendly cashiers, friendly waiters, friendly people at football games, friendly people on the street, friendly people on the gun range, friendly humans everywhere. People would start conversations with us on the street, saying things like, “Hey! Nice cap!” and just being nice and helpful.
I was multiple times in the states (east coast and west coast mainly), but I’ve never seen something like that.
An Outstanding Texan Habit
The pinnacle of our experience occurred when Martin and I were sitting in the airport, waiting for our boarding to start. We had eaten some food and had some leftovers and packaging on our table. An elderly man sitting next to us had also finished his meal. Once done, he stood up and disposed of his leftovers in the trash bin. But he didn’t stop there. He also picked up our leftovers and threw them away, while we were still sitting at the table.
We were puzzled and said, “Thank you, but that’s really not necessary.” He simply replied, “You are guests of the United States of America - we are here to serve you.” and continued cleaning our table. And no - he was not working at the restaurant.
This is the essence of “The Texas Way”.
Being Polite and Friendly the Texas Way - Something to Emulate
I can only imagine this man’s potential shock if he were ever to visit Europe. He’d encounter numerous impolite, grim-looking people who seldom say thanks.
For me, “The Texas Way” is a valuable lesson. Whenever I have the chance, I now remind myself to be more like a Texan. Friendliness and politeness simply rules and gets you farther.
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- Photo on top published in Wikimedia by the amazing Famartin
