I have a loyalty that runs in my bloodstream, when I lock into someone or something, you can't get me away from it because I commit that thoroughly. That's in friendship, that's a deal, that's a commitment. Don't give me paper - I can get the same lawyer who drew it up to break it. But if you shake my hand, that's for life.

The quote "I have a loyalty that runs in my bloodstream, when I lock into someone or something, you can't get me away from it because I commit that thoroughly. That's in friendship, that's a deal, that's a commitment. Don't give me paper - I can get the same lawyer who drew it up to break it. But if you shake my hand, that's for life" by Jerry Lewis, an American comedian, actor, and filmmaker, speaks to the deep sense of loyalty and personal commitment he has in his relationships. Lewis emphasizes that his loyalty is not just a casual feeling but a core part of his character, deeply ingrained in him ("runs in my bloodstream").

Lewis contrasts his commitment in friendship and business with the formality of legal agreements, stating that paper contracts can easily be manipulated or broken, even by the same lawyer who created them. In contrast, he values personal, handshake agreements as more binding and trustworthy than any written document. A handshake represents a promise made from one person to another, based on mutual respect and commitment.

The idea that a handshake is a lifelong bond underscores Lewis's belief that true friendship and promises are built on trust and integrity, rather than formalities or legalities. For him, friendship is a personal connection that doesn't require external validation through paper or official documents; the act of committing to someone, whether in business or personal life, is enough to make it sacred and long-lasting.

In conclusion, Jerry Lewis highlights the importance of loyalty and commitment in his relationships, especially in friendship. His belief that a handshake can signify a stronger, more lasting bond than a legal contract reflects a view of relationships based on integrity, mutual trust, and personal dedication, rather than written or formal agreements. This quote reveals his belief in the enduring power of personal commitment over legal or materialistic assurances.