In a move that didn't make much sense at first, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine retconned an important part of Captain Benjamin Sisko's (Avery Brooks) history, but the confusing change led to the creation of one of Deep Space Nine's best recurring characters. The life of a Starfleet commanding officer often means difficulty in maintaining family relationships, as seen with both Captain James T. Kirk (William Shatner) and Captain Jean-Luc Picard (Patrick Stewart), who prioritize their Starfleet careers over family. Unlike Kirk and Picard, however, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine's then-Commander Sisko was a family man from DS9's very first episode.

Star Trek: Deep Space Nine's premiere, "Emissary", established that Sisko's love for his family is a core part of his character. Benjamin is still grieving the loss of his wife, Jennifer (Felecia M. Bell), until the Bajoran Prophets remind Ben that he must live in the present.