God and Country

Many of you know that I visited WV for almost 30 years before I moved to Texas two years ago.

I have seen many differences in people and their attitudes between the two parts of the country. While out East, they appear to be friendly and looking out for their fellow man, the reality is often the opposite. While they say they love their country and state, they rarely show any signs of it.

Here in the Lone Star State, the people are truly concerned about their neighbors. They are not selfish and uncaring. They are not ashamed of, or afraid to, display their love of their Country, State, or God. Out east, nobody will tell you "God bless you" to your face - unless it's someone with a Bible in their hands, knocking at your door. They do here, without reservation. When one sneezes, as least one person says "Bless you!". You will not hear "gezundheit" here. It is nothing to be ashamed of. Out East, you will rarely hear (or be able to say) the Pledge Of Allegiance. The only time you'll hear the National Anthem is at the beginning of football or baseball games. Here, every morning you'll hear both on the radio to start your day off right. Guess what? The words "....under God...." will come out proudly. Out East, you might see an American Flag flying if you look close during holidays. Yes, gov't. buildings fly them, but they "have to", I guess. Here in Texas, you will see the American flag flown regularly. A great many fly the Texas State flag alongside it. During holidays, if you don't see one in any direction you look - you are literally blind. There is no place you can't look and see Old Glory flying proudly. When she passes by during a parade out East, not a hat comes off. Here, they all come off - with very few exceptions. Hats and hands cover the heart. Not out East.

What has become of Americans in some parts of the country? Do they see only the relatively minor negative things that are associated with our Country, and not see the "forest"? It is sad that more people do not show the love of God and Country that they claim to possess.

Texans freely acknowlege God and are proud to be Americans and Texans. I am one of them. Neither God nor Patriotism are taboo here. It's a wonderful feeling.