Toi, your scenario actually brings up the truest explanation for the mitzvah of Kibud Av V’em, which is that of hakaras hatov. One should honor his parents, on a most basic level, because they brought him into this world, and for that, he should show them hakaras hatov by giving them honor. Your case illustrates this point at an ideal level since that is all the father has done for this child. Normally, there are ENDLESS things that parents do for their children that warrant respect and honor. So not only is your case not contrasting what I’ve said, it is actually bringing out the most basic understanding for what Kibud Av V’em really is, and showing how those FEELINGS of hakaras hatov should be there, even if all they’ve done for you is bring you into this world. So yes, one is obligated to do this mitvzah whether he feels it or not. However, the highest form of fulfillment is when he does it with feeling. And welcome back, I haven’t seen you here in a while. I was wondering how you’re doing- http://www.theyeshivaworld.com/coffeeroom/topic/toi-hope-everything-is-ok
Wolf, I am sorry I didn’t mention this till now, but I wish your mother a speedy recovery.