Amma belonged to a generation that believed a son was necessary for achieving moksha. My parents often heard remarks like, "OMG, four daughters! How will you manage?" However we all turned out okay, and to Amma's delight, she gained four "sons" through her daughters. Each of her four daughters is unique, as are their respective husbands. All four sons-in-law contributed to making her world better and more wonderful. Amma was very vocal about her love for them.
She had known Mr. Husband the longest, practically seeing him grow up. She enjoyed having tea with him, often recounting stories of her extended family. She stayed with us in Singapore for a while and then spent a few months in Boston. Most of her travel experiences were credited to her daughters and sons-in-law. While she talked to me frequently, her face would light up whenever Mr. Husband appeared on a video call.
Amma always joked, much like my maternal grandma, that while her daughters were amazing, her sons-in-law were even better. She adored Mr. Husband for many reasons and would joke that she understood perfectly well what it was like to live with her daughter.
Although Amma didn't give birth to the sons she believed she needed for her moksha in the next life, her sons-in-law ensured that her present life was nothing short of amazing.
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