The Skills of Loving

Seeing
I do not look over or through you. I see you in your uniqueness.

Hearing
I listen to what you are saying.

Honoring of feelings and ideas
I recognize and affirm your right to feel and think as you do.

Having good will
I will you good and not evil. I care about you.

Responding to need
If you let me know what your needs are, within the limits of my value system, I will not run away. I will be there for you.

– Gerald J. and Elisabeth Jud, from their 1972 book Training in the Art of Loving