Opinion: Civility, Friendship, and the Strength of a Diverse Texas

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Civility, Friendship, and the Strength of a Diverse Texas

“For all its enormous range of space, climate, and physical appearance, and for all the internal squabbles, contentions, and strivings, Texas has a tight cohesiveness perhaps stronger than any other section of America. Rich, poor, Panhandle, Gulf, city, country, Texas is the obsession, the proper study and the passionate possession of all Texans”

- John Steinbeck

As the Texas Legislature prepares to kick off another session, the usual anticipation fills the air: heated debates, ideological clashes, and difficult compromises. It’s tempting to think that gridlock and discord are unavoidable. But beneath the noise lies a truth that shouldn’t be forgotten: civility. In a state as expansive and varied as Texas, civility isn’t just a courtesy—it’s the foundation that allows us to turn differences into strengths.  

Texas is massive in size and diversity. From the deserts of West Texas to the pine forests of the east, from the rolling plains of the Panhandle to the bustling streets of Houston and our border communities, our state is as wide-ranging in its people as it is in its landscapes. These differences don’t weaken Texas—they make it beautiful. There is a certain poetry in our diversity, in the ways our cultures, industries, and perspectives come together to create something larger than any one piece.  

And perhaps that’s why our state motto is simply “Friendship.” It’s a reminder that even in a place as big and bold as Texas, the ties that bind us are more important than the differences that divide us. Friendship doesn’t mean we always agree, but it does mean we approach each other with respect, understanding, and a willingness to listen.  

I understand that being a servant of the people is challenging. Representing the people and their unique needs while tackling statewide challenges is no small feat. The stakes are high, the issues complex, and the pressure constant. But if I may throw a Hail Mary word of advice from a naive but passionate Texan, it’s this: We are more alike than different, and the beauty of Texas lies in what unites us: the love for our home.

The Legislature mirrors Texas itself: rural and urban, with a range of priorities shaped by geography and community. A lawmaker from the Rio Grande Valley brings a different perspective than one from Dallas, just as someone from the Panhandle may see the world differently from someone in Austin. These differences could divide us, but civility transforms them into opportunities. By respecting one another and embracing those varied viewpoints, we can craft more creative and enduring solutions that reflect the complexity of the state itself.  

Texans have shown this time and time again. When hurricanes batter the coast, when freezes disrupt daily life, or when the grid falters, we step up for one another. Nobody asks how their neighbor votes before lending a hand or offering a meal. That sense of unity, rooted in a shared Texas identity, shows that civility isn’t just a lofty ideal—it’s alive in the everyday lives of Texans.  

As this legislative session begins, lawmakers have a chance to show what Texas does best: turning challenges into triumphs by working together. Civility shouldn’t be dismissed as outdated. It’s the key to finding common ground and moving Texas forward. The beauty of difference isn’t in erasing it but in recognizing its value—how it makes our ideas sharper, our solutions smarter, and our communities stronger.  

Texas has never been about one way of thinking or living. It’s big, bold, and wonderfully diverse. Our differences make us who we are, and civility ensures those differences don’t divide us—they unite us. In a time when division feels all too common, Texas has the opportunity to lead by example, showing that respect and dialogue aren’t weaknesses but strengths.  

Let’s not lose sight of the fact that the things that set us apart can also bring us together. There’s beauty in our differences and power in our unity. And when we embrace both—rooted in the spirit of friendship—Texas can continue to thrive as the bold, innovative, and resilient state we all call home. Everything truly is bigger in Texas- let our audacity to build bridges be as big as our Texan pride.

Luke Markey, B.S. in Philosophy, Southwestern University

^{About the Author}

Luke Markey, a San Antonio native with a Philosophy & Business degree from Southwestern University, is dedicated to crafting meaningful, data-driven solutions that create lasting impact. At the Andy Roddick Foundation, he led transformative donor strategies and spearheaded flagship events, including record-breaking fundraisers. With a strong background in nonprofit leadership and local government, Luke excels at building partnerships, managing complex initiatives, and driving positive change. This session, he’ll be making his mark at the Texas Capitol—so keep an eye out for him!

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