What a remarkable man you are, Myzen!
It is evident, because you have a loving family now, that you are the one who functioned from trust, love, and willingness to cooperate. The first wife was not, and is still dysfunctional. I would remain open to contact with R, your daughter. She may eventually bond with you and appreciate your many good qualities.
Can we love someone we don't trust...Of course we can and often do! In my own exp., it has scarred and impaired my ability to bond with the most trusting of men. Our upbringings do influence this, as in my case, a father who was emotionally unavailable...immersing himself in religion, and a mother who was emotionally and physically abusive, and who expressed a disdain and hatred for men. I seem to attach most strongly to the emotionally unavailable man, and at the same time, experiencing intense anxiety and frustration. We are definitely influence by the role models we observe as we grow up.
You were brave to post this passage. You should be very proud, though, of your own history.
Seeker