But the elemental meaning of Chinese gwaan hai is building personal relationships where both parties are willing to do whatever it takes to help each other. It implies a sense of moral obligation between the two. It’s used in business a lot, and people talk about how it can lead to corruption, this idea of scratching each other’s backs. But I believe any relationship worth having should be based on gwaan hai. If I love someone, I’m more than willing to do what needs to be done to bring them happiness, success, and joy. And the way I love you? That isn’t an obligation, it’s an honour. So
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