There was a time when people could make a deal and "shake on it." There were few papers or lawyers needed, because a handshake was a person's bond of agreement (Proverbs 6:1).

When troubles are resolved, they sometimes end with a handshake. There is an old saying attributed to Indira Gandhi: "You cannot shake hands with a clenched fist." When we give our word and extend our hand, it should mean we hold no grudges or thoughts of revenge. It means a new and fresh start. Our first duty is to open our hands--to remove that which is a wall between us and in all sincerity work to make a relationship better.