Offering a Toast.

The practice of offering a toast started in ancient Greece, when hosts toasted the health of their friends-and took the first drink-to show that they hadn't poisoned their guests' wine.

Today, we toast to honor those we care for and respect.

• Stand when you toast.
• If you are being toasted, don't stand - or drink - while the toast is offered. You should stand and respond to the toast after it is given.
• Always participate in a toast. You can use a glass of water, or even an empty glass, but raise it in tribute with others.