It is an old saying. I am sure most don’t really understand the meaning. It is easy to get a wild animal to eat that which is left on the ground. They catch on very fast. On the other hand, it will take time and patience to teach an animal to eat out of the palm of your hand. I know. I’ve tried it. Dogs, cats, squirrels take time to train to eat out your palm. I suppose you could even train bears but I don’t think I want to go there.

It’s kind of like that with humans too. Actually, I believe that was where it originated. The wild independent soul is quickly tamed when fed by hand. And of course, he is tamed when he looks for the handout. Then, the final step, the government has completely tamed the people when we all expect the handouts from Uncle Sam, especially when we eat right out of the palm of his hand.

The question you ask folks, is that what they want, and they hesitate not, to be dependent on the government dole? They will generally reply yes. It sure beats working.