First of all, I will state the
obvious, everything Is BIG In Texas–BIG hats, BIG boots, BIG ideas, BIG
Ranches, and really BIG hearts. Now, they face a really BIG DISASTER. But, they
must not face it alone.
I should make it clear right up
front that I am not, nor have ever been a Texan. I am a Floridian, born and
bred. However, over a lifetime I have perhaps spent more time in more places
around Texas than any other single state in this great nation. And like so many
non-Texans, I have genuine affection for the Lone Star State and its people. So,
as we send our prayers to heaven and our material help to our fellow Americans
in the land of the longhorns, I thought I would share a few personal observations
for those who may not have had the privilege to know Texas personally.
Texans have a heart as big as
their territory. They are a robust people, strong and independent, and they
will rise above the destruction of this storm and flood. Texans have always
been generous in their response to disasters in other places, and it is our
turn to stand shoulder to shoulder with them. Now is the moment Texas needs all
of us.
Texans Make Great Heroes – From tales
of the Texas Rangers, to the central role Texas played in Western history, from
the bravery and sacrifice of the Alamo, to their leading role in space
exploration, Texans have inspired us with their heroism. Now new stories of
heroism are unfolding as first responders risk their lives and neighbors are
navigating through dangerous waters to save strangers.
Texans have a unique way of taking
complicated issues and making it easy for anyone to understand. One of my best
examples came from an on air interview from the border of Texas and Mexico a
few years back. The reporter was wrapping up and the rancher he was speaking
with said: “I have one more thing to say!” The reporter complied and the
rancher stated with a matter-of-fact tone: “You go back to Washington and tell
the President, the border’s on fire and he keeps sending us gasoline!” With
that comment in mind, it is not time to waste our time analyzing the situation.
Texans need us, and they need help now.
And Lastly, “Don't Mess with Texas”. This slogan was used on a campaign to reduce
littering on Texas roadways some years back. The message is simple,
clear and perfectly Texan. They have no intention of letting this latest disaster
“mess” with their future for long. Thank
you Texas for reminding us what a great nation we can be.
I close with this sincere prayer: “God
bless the great state of Texas, and LORD, bless this nation as we come to the
aid of our fellow Americans.
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