By Jaci Schneider, Opinion Editor

Much Ado About Something

I have to admit, Texas is growing on me. Well actually, it’s growin’ on me. I am still a proud Pacific Northwesterner, but I am beginning to see why some people like this strange, dusty land.

The thunderstorms alone make West Texas a decent place to live. I love waking up in the morning to the sounds of booming thunder and rain trickling down the gutter onto my front porch and cars splashing their way down the street.

And the place does have some nice sunsets. I have spent many evenings marveling at the spread of colors across the sky.

However, in the two-ish years that I’ve spent in Abilene, I still don’t understand some of the finer quirks of West Texas culture.

First, the word y’all. Sure, it’s a handy word; most languages have a word for the plural “you,” so it makes sense that Americans would make up their own. But if you’re going to create a contraction and use it in every sentence spoken, please spell it right. You all equals y’all, not ya’ll.

Another language issue – carbonated beverages are not all Coke; some are 7-Up, Dr Pepper, Pepsi, and some truly are Coke. Call it pop, call it soda, I don’t care, but please don’t call it Coke; it just leads to confusion.

From my perspective, Texas seems to be behind in recycling. It could just be in Abilene, but I cringe every time I see a soda can or newspaper in a trashcan. I find it strange that a recycling truck doesn’t come once a week to pick up newspapers, bottles, cans and cardboard. Recycling is a way of life in many states; when I first arrived in Texas, I didn’t know what to do with my soda cans, and I couldn’t believe that I was expected to throw them away. Why can’t Texas join other states in making recycling easy and commonplace?

I could go on for a while, but I’ll refrain from listing every grievance about the state of Texas because I really don’t mind living here. The people are friendly, and the sky is big. But Texans, please remember, it’s not the only state in the union, it’s not the biggest, and it’s not the best. Go ahead and be proud of your home, but think before buying Texas flag patio furniture, car seat covers or bedroom sets – some things really are over the top y’all.