When I hear obligation, I usually jump to priority. We have all kinds of obligations, some less strict or important than others. It's how we decide to try to fulfill our olbigations - and which ones we prioritize over others - that shows what kind of person we really are.
Yes, I see your point. It's the word itself, not the intent behind it that I was referring to. I do have an obligation to be a healthy and good parent to my children and make sure they grow up to be healthy and good people. In that context, obligation carries a different meaning for me.