Sometimes being a Texan carries some extra baggage

There are both advantages and drawbacks to being a Texan.

And deciding whether one outweighs the other really depends on your outlook.

On the good side, Texans get noticed when they’re traveling out of their accustomed crowd. But, that, too, has a dual side.

Some people hear your accent and ask where you parked your horse.

Others get real friendly and start asking about Texas.

Chances are good, though, that you’ll also be running into preconceived notions once you’re identified as a denizen of Texas.

For instance, if you’re around people who buy into the typical Texan stereotype, you either have the chance to do everything you can to debunk the myth — or you can claim you’re from Louisiana.

Now there’s no doubt that plenty of Texas people fit the image because they’re swaggering, insufferable braggarts who think that living in the Lone Star State automatically gives them special status.

But not everybody in Texas drives a big luxury vehicle with longhorn horns mounted on the hood. Not every Texan wears a cowboy hat and boots, although lots of them do.

Plus, you will have to admit that not every Texas stereotype is a negative. Comedian Jeff Foxworthy of “you might be a redneck” fame actually has a routine that is not insulting to Texans — and even has some elements of truth.

For example, Foxworthy says that if someone in a Lowe’s store offers assistance and they don’t work there, you may be in Texas.

And he nails the weather tendencies when he says that if you’ve worn shorts and a parka at the same time, you might be in Texas. He also points out that if you measure distance in hours instead of miles, you’re probably a Texan.

Now these kinds of labels are easy to wear. In Foxworthy lingo, Texans are uncommonly friendly and helpful. They’re also flexible and prepared. Better yet, they’re not at all impressed with the size of their state, choosing instead to be practical by reducing distance to actual time invested.

But actually, transplanted Texans should have more bragging rights than natives. After all, they chose to come here. Born and bred Texans didn’t have a lot of say in their choice of states.

Really there are a lot of nice things about this state. Many people act smug as a result, as if they can somehow take credit for their surroundings.

However, to be honest, there are drawbacks to Texas as well. Take the nutty things the Legislature tends to do. Well, it would be fine if some of the lawmakers fled to other states and never came back, but that’s a whole different discussion.

Besides, Texans with a sense of humor think its great that there is room for oddball politicians. That’s kind of a Kinky outlook, isn’t it?

While we’re on the subject, let’s add to the Foxworthy routine. If you’ve ever heard a political joke involving an armadillo, you’re probably in Texas. And if you know somebody who smoked a joint with Willie, you’re probably listening to a Texas liar.

Oh well, what can you say? Texas is unique, and if people want to be proud of that fact, there’s nothing wrong with that.

Besides, real Texans know it takes all kinds. And it ain’t boasting if you’ve got examples that the state has more of those “all kinds” than most other places.

Texas is big as all git-out, and has bigger-than-life characters to match. No brag, just fact. Isn’t that what the typical Texan is supposed to say?