A clenched fist cannot give, but it also cannot receive
A clenched fist cannot give, but it also cannot receive 
Anger lurks in many corners throughout our days. Think of our commute. How many road rage incidents have you come across lately? How many times have people at work let you down or simply are after you? How many friends and perhaps even family member are trying their best to aggravate you to no end? Do you catch yourself sometimes clenching your teeth and even your fists?
Ever wonder what this does to you long term? Hate begets more hate – and anger. It escalates in variety and severity. The so called downward spiral can spin out of control easily. That is all because your heart, soul, and intellect have closed shop. You no longer have their hands open to receive the rich gifts that life has prepared for us. Your fists are also not helping for you to give. With no contributions to others and a greater purpose you limit what you can receive from others. Closed fists also mean you have closed your mind.
Next time you get all tensed up ponder if you are ok with granting someone or something this kind of power over you. Because that is what happens here; it all starts with anger. Hate and anger are the tangible manifestation of you handing over control of your destiny to others. How do you feel about that? Mentally prepare for how you want to respond to this constant threat next time it happens.
Ralf
PS: Thank you Christine for letting me re-purpose your adage
