How should the ‘Absent’ parent behave?

Well, hmmm, difficult one here, but really it is simple?  I’m sure with true input yes it could be better, much better than it is.  Its been mentioned by folks that absent (Non resident parent)  ‘dads’ should earn to see/view/meet ones own child, scary stuff but many believe that this is a way forward.  Children are not a commodity, but it seems those who work with children yet don’t have ones own say they know best, hmmm again…