I'm not by any means the perfect father, but I'm trying. My ex and I get along fairly well these days, and it's good to be close to the children and see them as often as possible. I never really fit into her family, even though I played along for a few years. Realised a couple of years ago that I couldn't play that part anymore.
I am convinced that the most important thing you can pass on to your child is simply this: It's o.k. to follow your dreams. You may pay a heavy price for it. People may shun you and turn their backs on you. You may suffer rejection and financial difficulty. Don't let it stop you. Stay on your path.
Life can be short. Don't waste it doing "what you're supposed to do".