I am a sister to 2 other sisters and one younger brother, thus I grew up in a house full of estrogen and the comfort that comes with being around other females.
However, as a young girl when my dad lived at home, he tended to favour the 1 other boy. I love my brother deeply, but my father chose to direct his energy and participation towards him. Because of this, the relationships I've fostered and the things that give meaning to me reflect the female figures and their impacts upon my life.
If my father had cared more about his participation in activities and conversations with my sisters and I, my outlook and even comfort towards him and other males might be different.
And although he was a part of my life, he was never truly present in the ways I needed him to be. Meaningful participation allows for growth and learning, and for those who love the other person, shows that they care as well.