• by Wayne Friedman , Staff Writer, October 12, 2017

When thinking about the national anthem and sports, one needs to have a broader view.

Home Depot needs to play the national anthem before opening its doors to begin its business day. And everyone needs to stand — customers and employees alike.

No kneeling allowed — unless maybe there is floor work. But no matter what, everyone also needs to grab beer — or some alcohol. History and custom should tell you this.

And it shouldn’t just be at retail moments, but for all entertainment. Every kind of media business — especially live TV shows — needs to start its day with the national anthem and the pledge of allegiance. Viewers also need to stand. New smart TVs with in-set cameras will see to this.

When I was younger man — up late at night — I would watch TV stations sign off and see video of a U.S. flag waving in the wind, while the national anthem played. TV stations would also do that — and some radio stations — when signing on each morning. Sometimes, a prayer would accompany the anthem.

The music for our U.S. national anthem has been around since the mid-1700s. But the origins might not be so honorable.

The tune, according to historians, comes from England, "To Anacreon in Heaven," the official song of The Anacreontic Society, a gentlemen's club in London. The ancient Greek poet Anacreon was renowned for his drinking songs and odes to love.

Of course, when it comes to having a drink, it makes sense for the NFL. At in-stadium games — and those watching on TV at home — fans can often be found with a beer in their hands.

As you mull this over, consider exactly what your patriotic rules are around the start of your workday in the media — for media agencies, marketers, TV networks, social media platforms, etc.

They don’t have any? Better get some. Our President will probably be demanding it. Here's the good news: You can stand — and drink.