We Only Control Two Things: Our Thoughts and Our Actions

Make them count where they matter most.

Twenty years ago, I realized a simple truth: we only have control over our thoughts and actions. Everything else — the economy, national politics, other people's choices — is beyond our direct influence. Think and Act Locally is the logical conclusion of that realization.

It's an absolute shame that with this absurd level of prosperity we enjoy, we allow our brothers and sisters to be left behind. We the people have allowed the state to assume our responsibility. It is time we take back that responsibility and become our brother's keeper once more.

This isn't about politics. It's about recognizing that the most meaningful change happens through what we actually control — our own thoughts and actions — applied where they have the most power: right here in Deer Park, La Porte, and Pasadena.

Our path forward: Through Engagement, we connect neighbors who want to help. Through Education, we share skills that build prosperity. Through Entrepreneurship, we create opportunities for those left behind.

I've seen what's possible when we take responsibility for lifting each other up. I've watched young people transform their lives when someone simply stood beside them. I've seen communities change when neighbors stop waiting for someone else to fix things.

This week's challenge: Stop spending an hour angry about something happening 1,000 miles away. Instead, invest that hour in someone or something within one mile. Visit a local business you've never tried. Introduce yourself to a neighbor. Attend a city council meeting. Share a skill with someone who needs it.

Welcome to Think and Act Locally. Don't just have a great day. Make it a great day.

— David Campbell

Watch on YouTube →

Liberty Watch — Your Government, This Week

Understanding how local government works is the first step to influencing it.

Deer Park City Council — 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7:30 PM, City Hall, 710 E San Augustine St. To speak, register by 7:25 PM day-of; City Secretary 281-479-2394. Agendas: cityofdeerpark.legistar.com. Council: Mayor Jerry Mouton Jr.; Positions 1–6: Sherry Garrison, TJ Haight, Tommy Ginn, Justin League, Ron Martin, Georgette Ford.

La Porte City Council — 2nd & 4th Mondays, 6 PM, 604 W Fairmont Parkway. Agendas & video: LaPorteTX.gov/MeetingVideo.

Pasadena City Council — 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 6 PM, 1149 Ellsworth, 6th Floor. Agendas: pasadenatx.gov/AgendaCenter/City-Council-3.

Prosperity Spotlight

Local business & entrepreneurship.

Something new is buzzing — a brand-new local podcast, Bee Reel: raw conversations, real stories, honest talk. Business owners and entrepreneurs ready to share their struggles and successes can message to come on. Stay tuned at thesocialhivetx.com.

Urban Bird Hot Chicken — 8015 Spencer Hwy, Deer Park. Now open. Hot-chicken-style sandwiches.

Otsuka Ramen & Bar — 8035 Spencer Hwy C, Deer Park. Japanese ramen, sushi rolls, rice bowls.

Big Mouth Grub — 3602 Underwood Rd, La Porte/Deer Park area. Burgers and comfort food.

Service Opportunities

Ways to make a difference.

La Porte Project Graduation brisket drive — seeking donated or sponsored briskets to support the Class of 2026 senior celebration.

Deer Park Volunteer Fire Department Toy Drive — organizers seeking 5–10 local businesses to partner; community members donate a toy or gift in exchange for a coupon or service from a participating business. 100% goes to the DPVFD. Contact via Airborne Auto Glass, 4506 Center St, Deer Park, 281-479-5700.

Pet of the Week

Brutus — a 1-year-old male Great Pyrenees (85 lbs), a gentle giant, already fixed and up to date on vaccines, at the Deer Park Animal Shelter. Looking for a loyal, affectionate forever home.

Community Calendar

This week's must-attend events. Send us yours: david@thinkandactlocally.com.

Thanksgiving Camp — Mon Nov 24, 7:30 AM–5:30 PM, Dow Active Complex, 610 E San Augustine, Deer Park. Three-day themed camp; fee required.

Pilates — Mon Nov 24, 6–7 PM, Dow Active Complex. Member/punch-card.

Jake Bush Live w/ Gary Kyle — Fri Nov 28, 9 PM, Tri-City Beer Garden, 7337 Spencer Hwy, Pasadena. Texas-country night.

Small Business Saturday Vendor Fair — Sat Nov 29, 12 PM, Turn Around Club Pasadena, 5830 Spencer Hwy.

Bike Night & Christmas Toy Drive — Sat Nov 29, 7 PM, Bubba's 33, Pasadena. 10% of proceeds and a free appetizer for toy-drive participants.

Deer Park Psychic Expo — Sat Nov 29, 5–11 PM, Deer Park Hall, 1184 Hall Ct.

Free Community Thanksgiving BBQ — Sun Nov 30, 10:30 AM–12 PM, 310 W P St, Deer Park. Free meal and music. Must reside in Deer Park, Pasadena, or La Porte; registration required (Crossroads DP).

Take Action This Week

1. Attend a city council meeting.
2. Support a local business you've never tried.
3. Connect — introduce yourself to a neighbor. Invest one hour within one mile.

Value for Value

TAAL provides value freely; you give back based on the value you receive. No paywalls, no required subscriptions. We feature paid local sponsorships — but their support never influences our message. Three ways to give: Time (share it, show up, report back), Talent (submit stories, photos, expertise), and Treasure (support the mission when you receive value).

Support Think and Act Locally →