The phenomenon of beer gaining popularity in France is the same as wine gaining popularity in the U.S. - both populations are reacting to the information age. With the birth of the internet came the blurring of cultural boundaries and the ability to share traditions. An entire generation is now exploring what it means to learn about the other guy rather than be kept in the dark to other fads, traditions and opinions. We should all be so glad that Americans are finally starting to discover the spirit of family, celebration and meditation that wine can bring to the dinner table, just as the French are discovering how damn good a Belgian Ale tastes with steamed mussels in a garlic-cream sauce.
Neither event means the destruction of anything - quite the opposite. It is representative of trying new things - a gift that can only be accompanied with sharing and growth. The world is a lot bigger now than it ever was, and it's getting bigger by the second as any blogger can attest to. It's time we stop worrying about what we're losing and start enjoying what we're gaining.
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