According to a list put out by Big 7 Travel, Texas is the fourth friendliest state in America. We natives knew this already, of course, but it’s nice to see the rest of the country catching on. From holding doors open to rescuing people stranded in floodwaters, residents of the Lone Star State have Texas-sized hearts.

There’s no shortage of reasons to be proud you hail from Texas, but somewhere near the top of the list has to be our kindness — or Southern hospitality, as we call it down here. According to Big 7 Travel, Texas is the fourth friendliest state in America. Here are just a few of the many reasons why:

Flickr/Kimberly Vardeman

Whether it’s with a “Howdy!” or simple tip of our hat, we Texans never pass up the opportunity to say hi. Warm greetings are just ingrained in our DNA.

Flickr/Irina Gheorghita

Chivalry is far from dead here. Always expect doors to be held open for you — even if you’re more than a reasonable distance away.

Flickr/Funk Dooby

Even on the road, we still give our salutations. Don’t be surprised if a quick glance into your rearview mirror reveals a driver giving you a two-finger wave.

Flickr/Dave Gingrich

Around the dinner table, our manners truly shine. Elbows remain off the table, our mouths are closed when chewing, and we always pass the peas.

Flickr/Shea

Perhaps the most striking displays of Texas kindness are revealed during times of hardship. When the Houston area was devastated by Hurricane Harvey in 2017, not only the National Guard but also regular citizens braved the deadly conditions to rescue those in grave danger.

Flickr/The National Guard

Our beloved H-E-B never hesitates to lend a helping hand. Whether it’s sending disaster relief trucks when hurricanes strike or supporting local businesses by selling their to-go meals during COVID-19, the unofficial grocery store of Texas is the epitome of generosity.

Flickr/Tony Webster

How do you feel about the ranking? Did we miss any other reasons why Texans are some of the friendliest people around? Let us know your thoughts, and check out our previous article for more state pride: 12 Reasons Why Texas Is The BEST State.

Flickr/Kimberly Vardeman

Flickr/Irina Gheorghita

Flickr/Funk Dooby

Flickr/Dave Gingrich

Flickr/Shea

Flickr/The National Guard

Flickr/Tony Webster

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