Last week, I stopped by our newest listing here in McKinney. When I arrived, I discovered that the homeowner needed help packing up some boxes and cleaning. I enjoy helping others, so I dove into the thick of the moving process and got to work.

While this moment felt natural to me, it did get me thinking.

So many people today have an attitude of “that’s not my job.” Like when it comes to returning the grocery cart, watching out for elderly neighbors, picking up litter on the sidewalk, or holding the door for a stranger.

*shrug* Not my job!

Taking ownership, responsibility, and action is far from ordinary. It takes time, energy, and effort, all of which can be inconvenient.

In other words, lending a hand is rarely the easy route.

So, when we say, “That’s not my job,” what we’re really saying is, “I don’t care.” And that attitude has some very real consequences.

If you’ve traveled the world or visited major cities here in the US, you’ve probably noticed the ripple effects of the “that’s not my job” attitude.

When it’s no one’s job to care for the elderly, we hear terrible stories of abuse. When it’s no one’s job to care for the environment, we see stunted plants and injured animals. And when no one is willing to help someone else move? You’d be shocked by the number of people who wind up with back spasms from lifting boxes and furniture on their own.

But this is why I love Texas.

Around here, there’s a culture of “that’s my job.” It’s in our DNA. Instead of shirking responsibility, we embrace it.

As Texans, we believe what Benjamin Franklin said: “Only a virtuous people are capable of freedom.” And so, we look out for one another, help each other, and grow together.

Of course, McKinney can’t issue decrees to make this culture a reality. It’s entirely up to individuals — you and me — to take ownership and action when we have the opportunity. Whether it’s at work, church, or somewhere else, we can always choose to lend a hand and teach our kids to do the same.

I’m so grateful to live, work, and enjoy the benefits of the “that’s my job” culture here in Texas. I hope you feel the same sense of pride!