They are worthy of our affection just because they are, not because of what they do. It involves the use of our eyes, body, and feelings, as well as our ears. Listen not only to their words but to their tone of voice, mood, body language, and behavior. Most of us think talking is the most important aspect of communication, but it is only one piece. In fact, good listeners are typically the most effective communicators, and often have the least to say.
Parents often confuse being accepting of feelings with approving of behavior.
However, being permissive with feelings does not mean being permissive with behavior. Negative feelings tend to be the ones we have the most difficulty accepting. There is nothing wrong with feeling sad, afraid, disappointed, or even angry, but behaving in a manner that is disrespectful, disruptive, or destructive to self, others, or property is unacceptable. Remember, God loved us enough to give us The Ten Commandments. The implication is that you must first love yourself before you can love others.