I grew up with an emotionally distant father. He focused entirely on his work, and left everything else to our mom. He was unresponsive to requests for help.
When I was in my mid-20s he self-transformed. Of his own accord, he turned completely around and became open to us, encouraging us, etc.
Of the men here who grew up with emotionally distant fathers, how many of you experienced an improvement, or have even heard of such a thing?
Friend, I had the same situation, after 20 years, my father became a stranger to me.
Hello okieman,
I haven't had the same experience as yourself personally, but I think you should be encouraged greatly and now focus on the present time and building bridges for the future. We sometimes can never really know what prompts someone to change, but how amazing for you that he has. You may find it beneficial, if you felt that you needed to, to have some counselling sessions to discuss the past relationship with your dad and how it affected you and your mum. I am currently having counselling myself and I can say that if you feel able to talk then it is very beneficial and helps you to see things more clearly. I wish you and your family all the very best and hope that your relationship with your dad continues to grow well.
Best wishes, Fegans PSV