In Honor To You, My Son
When a woman gives birth to a son, her appreciation for manhood has deepened. ~ Viola M. Jaynes
Each year, I look forward to celebrating and sharing my birthday with my son. He was to be a mid January baby, but instead he was born on the very same day as my birthday. Having grown up without a family and having lost both my brothers when I was a young child, I was deeply moved at the Grace and Love of God as He bestowed on me this wonderful birthday gift. It was as though He smiled on me and said: “All is well, my child, all is well!” And so it has been! Today, I give special honor to this young boy who is quickly turning into a young man right in front of my eyes.
In Honor To You, My Son
The moment I found out that you were growing within my womb -
I loved you.
Every time you moved and kicked as you grew bigger by the day -
I loved you.
Each day, each week, and each month that went by waiting for you -
I loved you.
With great pains, lying in my bed and knowing that the time is nigh -
I loved you.
The great anticipated moment finally came with its last great push -
I loved you.
As you were held up for me to see the miracle of your precious life -
I loved you.
You were wrapped in a warm blanket and placed gently in my arms -
I loved you.
Looking into your eyes, I tenderly held your little hand. I wept because -
I loved you!
You, my son, are the greatest Birthday gift a mother could ever hope for. Each year on our Birthday, I am reminded again how thankful and blessed I am to have a son like you. In one decade, you have grown so much, and you continue to learn more each day. You are not only gaining knowledge in school, but you are cultivating an understanding to be a kind and compassionate human being. You are learning to give as you receive. You are learning to love as you are loved. You are learning to trust in life as life is generous to you. You are learning to know your God as He draws your heart close to Him. And as He teaches you to look deeper into the hearts of men, you are gaining wisdom for the days ahead. You have begun to understand that to show kindness and compassion for all living things, is to honor and to serve Your God.
You are truly a special gift to me! I love you so very, very much!
Happy Birthday!
Always Your Mama






Viola, this is beautiful! I am so glad that you have your children and they are blessed to have you as their mother. My prayers are with you.
Comment by Liz — January 9, 2008 @ 3:37 pm
I really loved this post and I was very touched by it.
That was very kind of you to write a post about me.
I love you very much!
Your loving son, Andrew
Comment by Andrew Jaynes — January 10, 2008 @ 4:17 am
Viola, this is probably the most moving post I have read anywhere in a long time. The love for your son is quite apparent. How wonderful it is to love and be loved!
Comment by KAL — January 15, 2008 @ 12:11 am
Kal, you are such a dear person. Thank you for your kind comment. My children have added so much to my life and you are right, it is wonderful “to love and be loved.” Thank you!
Comment by Viola Jaynes — January 15, 2008 @ 2:04 am
Viola, this truly is beautiful! Happy Birthday to you and your son. My baby boy was born this month too.
Comment by Rose — January 15, 2008 @ 4:23 am
Thank you my dear Rose!
Comment by Viola Jaynes — January 15, 2008 @ 8:23 am
Viola, I cry everytime I read this loving tribute to my favorite & very “special” little guy. I know he is growing & maturing into a fine young man & the feelings conveyed in this article are part of the many reasons for that blessing in all of our lives. Andrew’s arrival, just in time to wish you a “Happy Birthday”, (and the rest of us a “Happy New Year”) is a perfect sign of God’s everlasting love. Your path is laid out & I know you will walk it with grace, dignity & purpose. Love D../Mamaw
Comment by Diane Ethridge — February 2, 2008 @ 10:48 pm