When was the last time you had a good Guinness?  You know…the Irish stout that’s best served via a “double pour” with a dome of foam cresting the upper boundary of that familiar and uniquely formed glass?  Yes…THAT Guinness.

I suspect that you’ve had Guinness recently if you’ve seen their latest tv commercial.  If you haven’t seen it, I’ll give you an opportunity to view it for yourself in just a moment. 

The latest Guinness ad honors our Men and Women of military service.  It’s simple, yet powerful.

We are reminded of the importance of duty and commitment – by the faithful daily preparation of the young lady and most certainly by the image of the Soldier.

We are reminded of the importance of honor – anything less than the first table would be unsuitable for such high purpose.  Likewise, anything less than the young man standing to greet the Soldier would be inadequate and disrespectful.

We are reminded of the importance of community.  Thankfully, we welcome today’s warriors home with collective cheers and hugs – as they always should be, but sadly have not always been treated. 

And so, I hope you’ll take about 90 more seconds or so to
watch the latest Guinness commercial here. 

Thirsty yet?  Take 119.5 seconds to get that perfect pour and raise a glass of that thick, nitrogen-charged, deep ruby, barley-laden stout to toast our greatest heroes. 

Even better, set an extra place at the table at your next holiday meal – an empty seat and a pint of Guinness as an important reminder.  Likewise, perhaps we should all remember to stop and offer to treat a Soldier to a Guinness the next time we see them in an airport or restaurant.  After all, “the choices we make reveal the true nature of our character.”  So true.

Here’s to Chet, Russ, Kevin, JB, and Ken…and many more.

Cheers, y’all.

T.