Beer, when consumed in moderation, is a delightful beverage.

In some circles it is known as “The nectar of the gods.” In the year 1972, while on a job in the Middle East, the only beer available was the beers brewed in Germany, Holland and Belgium, which I found delightful for the full bodied and crisp taste.

Before returning home to the USA, a European colleague and beer drinking friend gave me a riddle to solve by myself. The riddle: “Why do we Europeans feel that American light beer and a canoe have one thing in common?”

Over the years I gave thought to this riddle but never came up with an answer until now. While watching one of the many sporting events on TV, which is dominated with light beer commercials, I wondered if maybe I am missing something by not trying this highly advertised beer.

At halftime I went out and bought a six pack of this well-advertised light beer. After two sips the answer to the riddle of what American light beer and a canoe have in common was obvious: They both are close to water.