"Where Does your fist go when you open your hand"; Or, a short review of words vs. what we really mean

One of my favorite Zen sayings is " Where does your fist go when you open your hand?" This always provoked a long discussion from my kids and usually ended by them asking if I could please refrain from any more mind teasers.

Yet, there really is a difference between words, common words, and the thing itself. Take one of the big ones, for example, the word "freedom." We thank the stars each day that we are "free," free to speak, and free to act legally for our own benefit without retribution.

We thank the stars that we have a "free" press, even though some may feel unfree about voicing an opinion in writing or in public. Hence, some may always ask others what is the appropriate thing to think, if the right and proper view is not obvious. To have a "free" press that is not paid for is somehow upsetting.

"Independence" is another biggie. If one did not have an independent press, how independent could a people be? Being from the heartland, many pride themselves with their independence. I wonder what they mean by the word. If not able to express an independent view, how independent could they be?

Maybe the fist and the hand are really the same here. Maybe there is really nothing "free" or "independent" about it. You make the call.