Passage: In many cultures, the act of refusing a gift is considered a profound act of social aggression. To refuse a gift is to refuse the relationship itself, as the gift is the primary vehicle for social entry. Similarly, failing to make a return gift is not seen merely as a financial oversight, but as a moral failure that diminishes the recipient's 'soul' or status. Because the gift contains a part of the giver, to keep it without reciprocation is to keep a piece of another person's identity 'captive.' This spiritual imbalance is believed to cause illness or misfortune. Thus, the economic 'repayment' is actually a spiritual and social 'release' that restores the balance of power between the parties.