[@HaltingBlooper]

I didn't have a dad most of my life and he now lives very far away from me so I don't know how valid this answer will be. In my mind I have many dads. Some that were not even married to my mom but good friends because I knew that they would be there for me. That I could talk to them or have their support. They make you stronger and help you keep your head held high. 

This isn't to say moms are not the same way. My mom gave me more than enough love and support for both. It is hard to describe what it is like to have a father and not really an exact science. I know why you asked the question. I have asked others before in the past but it was always one that I never could really get a true answer because all dads are different just like all people