Joyce Carol Thomas: Hello, my name is Joyce Carol Thomas. After giving birth to several boys, my mother Leona Haynes yearned for a daughter. For many years, her prayers went unanswered. She had seven more sons. Some lived, some died at birth. And then, much to her surprise, I was born. She was so pleased, my aunt told me, that my mother allowed no sad songs around my crib. She named me Joyce Carol for joyful song. My original name then was Joyce Carol Haynes. My married name is Joyce Carol Thomas. I am ever mindful and respectful of my mother's fervent yearning for my birth and I'm most appreciative of the legacy of my name.