What does it mean to be a man? This question is reminiscent of the pop philosophical musings of Data, the resident android on the Enterprise of Star Trek: The Next Generation, who constantly questioned what it meant to be human from his perspective of being a highly advanced robot. Dads Space, ever up to the challenge, will try to ponder on this question to get your grey matter working on your identity as a fellow.
Parent, not just “Father knows best”
The stereotype of fathers, at least for generations past, was that dad would spend all day at the office of United Widget Manufacturers Inc., come home, switch his tweed blazer for a cardigan, put on his slippers and sip brandy while mother prepared a delicious roast chicken for him and the kids, who play quietly at father's feet. Is this not you? It's not really anyone these days – modern fathers are part of a parenting team, and getting stuck in with the kids, cooking, and cleaning sounds much more fun and real than being aloof with a copy of The Times.
Real men don't...
The thing about Data is that he is just as caring and lovable as any of the Enterprise's crew, despite being made our of circuits and not flesh and bone. So what does it mean to be a “real” anything? You're a real man if you think of yourself as a man, really – and if you're the dad part of a loving family of any description, this makes you a man to the most important people in your life, which is what really counts.
Under pressure
The pressure to look like an underwear model, play sport like a footballer, and assert yourself like a bouncer is immense on men, young and old; women aren't alone in feeling the pressure of social norms. Thing is, though, is that social norms can be toxic for girls and boys. But you don't need to conform, if you're comfortable with who you are, and the best way of measuring the job you're doing as a man, father, and human being is to look at your context: Data is a valued Starfleet officer and friend, and we're sure that you are a valued member of your crew.