I decided to leave my beloved state to attend a great university just a little further north. I thought to myself, "What could possibly be different when just crossing the border?"
The answer to that is surprising. Try as I may to immerse myself in the Oklahoman culture, I will always be a Texan at heart (and I'll never forget to be vocal about it). Here are the truths that my fellow Texans will understand, no matter what state you attend college in.
The word "pop" to describe soft drinks
No. No. No. NOOOO. I have been living in Oklahoma for three years and I still cringe at the use of this word. Even the word "soda" would be better. But don't try to call it a coke unless you're drinking a Coca-Cola (they don't understand).
No one understands the massive amount of pride we have for our state
Texas forever. The Lone Star State. The stars at night, are big and bright *clap clap clap clap*. Don't Mess with Texas. Oh, and remember The Alamo.
Texas high school football is a lifestyle
Texas: A place where school districts have the budget to build multi-million dollar football stadiums and still feel okay with the fine arts department doing their performances on the cafe-torium (auditorium-cafeteria combo) stage. Friday Night Lights' depiction of our high school football obsession is sadly accurate.
You can drive 6 hours and still be in the same state
Everything is bigger in Texas.
The culture shock of seeing the massive amounts of casinos in Oklahoma
It's not a myth; they are everywhere.
Everyone hates us...Unless you're one of us
Get a group of Texans together and everyone will roll their eyes. It's okay though; they secretly wish they were a part of it.
Though I will always love Texas (and be fully willing to express my love), I will forever be grateful to Oklahoma for the truly wonderful people I know and school that I attend. God bless Texas... and Oklahoma too.
