Yes, there's a big difference. Atleast in our family.
My father was a spirited person. He gave us the greatest gift a parent could give a child - Reading. Not only was he a voracious reader himself, he would always make sure we have a huge collection of books at our disposal all times in the house - didn't matter that they were mostly used and tattered ones. And, he used to talk to us constantly when we were little. There would be debates on literature, science, philosophy, religion, travel - you name it. We have had discussions on just about everything. He loved it even more when we question on why's and how's and argue with him. To him, this was a sign of progress. Also, his sense of humor was unstoppable and infectious. Seriously.
My favorite quote of his - You have been given a brain. Use it.
My mother on the other hand always stayed out of these things and was always busy with household duties. Came time and when we grew older, she took charge. She is the most mature parent that a child could ever have. So forgiving and always giving others the benefit of doubt. I have never seen her bad-mouth anyone, anytime. She has been teaching us how to lead our life and even this day continues to do so. So strong and resolute that you would feel nothing can shake her. A monument of support. And, always positive and looking at brighter side of things.
My favorite quote of hers - No situation remains the same for ever. Everything changes. Just wait.
Let me shamelessly admit. I love them all. Harmless tidbits involving movie stars, Tv stars or anyone famous than me (which the last time I checked, shockingly includes most of the adult population) would be great for starters. If you're like me who loves to go through the gossip mags on shelves or even better, browse useless online web sites, but consciously pretend you never ever read them, please raise your hands. Ok, keep up the good work of "Mission TattleTalk" from getting destroyed by those bland non-gossipers. Who by the way, are really leading pathetic, platonic lives. Not even worth gossiping about. Back to juicy sound bytes, there are those personalized ones like getting the latest updates on our relatives and friends back home in India. Where, thanks to a zero-tolerance policy to privacy of life, everyone seems to have a deep, insightful knowledge of what the others around them are doing - who lost their job, who got married and living unhappily ever afte...