Author: rachaelathomasj

Hello, I’m Rachael Ann Thomas-Jeremiah—an editor with international experience, PR and communications consultant, marketing professional, and educator with over 21 years of teaching experience. I began my career at a very young age, and ever since, communication, education, and empowerment have been central to who I am and what I do. I bring 10 years of experience in communications and public relations, with a strong focus on crisis management and communications planning. I support individuals and organizations in navigating sensitive situations, protecting credibility, and communicating with clarity, confidence, and purpose. My background in marketing allows me to approach editing and communications strategically, always considering audience, impact, and long-term goals. I’m also the creator of a globally read blog, which has reached readers in 151 countries and received over 28,000 views to date. Sharing thoughtful content that inspires reflection, growth, and positivity is something I genuinely enjoy. Beyond my professional life, I’m passionate about sustainability and actively practice recycling, particularly paper and bottles. I also believe in recognizing excellence—when I receive impeccable service, I share it through Google reviews, which have accumulated 74,000 views so far. At my core, I value integrity, clarity, and kindness. I believe success is personal, growth is ongoing, and life—at every stage—is meant to be celebrated.
Posted in Celebrating Existence, Celebrating Life

Forever in Our Hearts: Remembering My Dad

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Today is seven (7) years since the day our dad, Ramchit Ramesh Thomas, passed away When he passed away on September 15, 2018, it changed all our lives not because we are unaware of what death is but because it added a whole new reality. Although he is physically gone, his presence is still deeply felt in our lives. Not a day goes by when he is not thought of. Time has moved forward, but the love, lessons, and memories he left behind remain with us as powerful as ever.

As I once wrote: “Dad was my hero.” That truth has not changed. If anything, with each passing year, I appreciate even more the man he was, the values he lived by, and the legacy he left for us. I miss him and we all do, but we know he is in no more pain, and he fought a brave fight, standing with integrity and courage till the very end. For me, I remember our conversations, his last words to me, his last hours, his final moments and all that came before that in the live he lived.

A Man of Integrity

Daddy lived by every message he shared with us. Preparation, discipline, honesty, and hard work guided everything he did. He believed in showing up, being ready, and following through. Those lessons still echo in my life every single day.

What few would know would be how committed he was to ensuring that there was electricity in Coromandel.

While I provide the image from the 1985 article, allow me to share snippets from it:

“A beautiful thank you card and letter were sent in to ACTION LINE recently from Ramesh Thomas of Southern Central Road, Coromandel Village, Cedros, for assistance he received from this column concerning the electricity supply he has been seeking from TTEC since 1972.”

“Thomas’ problem was carried in this column in March 1985…”

“Ramesh has applied for electricity supply since November 1972 for an electricity supply. Since then he has been applying to TTEC constituency office… He kept on applying and was called in during 1976 but was told his application was still in the office…”

“After being dated February 21, 1978 it was accepted as the first on the supply under the Rural and Remote Electrification Programme. It bore reference number D46/402/EC but up to now nothing had been done.”

“Yesterday, we received a beautiful thank you card and letter from Ramesh Thomas, to you and your Action Line team… My humble thanks for your noble intervention with TTEC. We have been waiting for electricity in Coromandel Village since 1972, but thanks to you our village has now been blessed with a supply.”

“It was with great delight I read your column in the Express on Monday March 11, 1985 concerning TTEC. Action was taken and our village was successful. May Almighty God bless you and your noble work always. Once again, very many thanks.”

“Thank you very, very much. —Ramesh Thomas.”

In my 2024 Father’s Day reflection, I wrote about how much he shaped me: “Dad’s love was not just in words, but in his actions, in his sacrifices, in his unwavering dedication to his family.” Those words still ring true because his example continues to guide how I live, love, and serve.

A Life of Giving

Those who knew him would know that this is who he was. Dad gave so much of himself—not only to us, his family, but also to the people around him. He always found a way to help, whether through his roles in the community or in the quiet, simple ways he supported those in need.

Those who knew him would be able to recall that the Coromandel Shiv Mandir was very dear to him and in the 20 years he served as President, he remained every committed to ensuring that the structure was continuously improved and the amenities too. Mom was always by his side and continues to be present in the Mandir. He wanted it to be a place where devotees who attended the Mandir- whether they were from the community or were visiting- could be in a safe space and worship in comfort. Over the years, the progress he made in realizing this dream became more and more evident. Thankfully, he was able to see a lot of it!

One story I did not share much is that last year when I began my playwright incubator’s course, the play I wrote earned its title from a part of Daddy’s life post-retirement. This play made it to the final round of staged readings in Barbados at the Daphne Joseph Hackett Theatre. The play is titled, “Shattered Dreams and Silver Linings”. It is a major undertaking but also one I will continue to work on to share my Dad’s story with the world.

In my 2018 tribute, I wrote: “He was selfless, dedicated, and disciplined. He gave of himself without ever expecting anything in return.” That is who he was at his core. Even when he was ill, he continued to encourage and support others. He taught us that true strength is not measured in what you keep for yourself, but in what you give to others.

The Little Things I Miss

When I think of Daddy, I remember not only the big lessons but also the quiet, everyday moments:

  • His smile that could light up a room.
  • His laughter that brought joy into our home.
  • His encouraging words that reminded me of my own strength.
  • His stories, filled with wisdom and sometimes humor, that connected us to our roots.
  • The way he showed us to reason situations.
  • The way he taught us to remain calm.
  • His love for each of us.
  • His passion for all that he did.

Those simple, ordinary moments are treasures now. They are reminders of his presence, even when he is no longer here physically.

His Legacy Lives On

In 2024, I shared that “Even though he is no longer here, I honour him by living the values he instilled in me—integrity, kindness, humility, and perseverance.”

That remains my daily goal. Every time I face challenges, I hear his words about preparation. Every time I choose kindness, service, or honesty, I know I am carrying him forward.

Dad would never want us to remain in sorrow. He would want us to live, to give of ourselves, and to walk with courage. That’s how I honor him—with my life, my choices, and my actions.

Forever Remembered

Daddy, we miss you dearly, but we know you are at peace. Your love continues to guide us, your lessons continue to strengthen us, and your legacy continues to shine through all who knew you. He was a gentle giant who touched many lives.

Thank you, Daddy. We love you. We honor you. We will never forget you.

We are grateful for all the time we had with our Dad! Physically gone but never to be forgotten! We are also grateful that we have Mummy with us! We are forever blessed to have them both as our parents!

Posted in Being Prayerful, Celebrate Today, Celebrating Existence, Celebrating Life, Life

To Err Is to Be Human: Celebrating the Power of Learning

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

To err is human, but every mistake carries a lesson. Discover how embracing imperfection, resilience, and the power of learning can transform your journey of personal growth and self-discovery. These timeless words remind us of something simple yet profound—we are not meant to be perfect; we are meant to be human. And in being human, we are invited into the sacred dance of growth, where mistakes are not failures but faithful companions on our journey of becoming.

The Beauty in Stumbling

Each misstep whispers a lesson. When we stumble, we discover new ways of standing tall. When we falter, we learn the strength of rising again. History itself shows us this truth—every great invention, every bold breakthrough, every step forward came through countless trials, errors, and renewed attempts. Our lives reflect the same rhythm. Mistakes are not detours; they are part of the road itself.

Learning: The Heart of Being Alive

There is immense power in learning. Every error holds a hidden gift, waiting for us to unwrap it with reflection and courage. To learn is to take what once felt heavy and turn it into wisdom. To learn is to transform a wrong turn into a guiding light. The very act of learning proves that we are alive, growing, and endlessly capable of more.

Embracing Our Shared Humanity

When we accept our imperfections, we open ourselves to compassion—both for ourselves and for others. We see that everyone carries their own journey of lessons, victories, and second chances. In celebrating our humanness, we find connection. We realize that what unites us is not perfection, but the courage to keep trying, keep learning, and keep loving despite the stumbles along the way.

Becoming Through Mistakes

To err is to be human. But to embrace those errors as opportunities—to rise, to grow, to learn—that is to truly live. Every mistake can be a stepping stone to something greater, if we allow it to be. So let us celebrate being human, not despite our flaws, but because of them.

For in every error, there is a lesson.
In every lesson, there is growth.
And in every act of growth, there is the miracle of becoming.

Life Lessons I Have Learnt

Through my own journey, I’ve discovered:

  1. Mistakes are not the end—they are a beginning. Every stumble can open the door to a new path.
  2. Self-forgiveness is a form of strength. It is only when I forgive myself that I can move forward with freedom.
  3. Growth takes patience. Learning often comes slowly, but each step forward—no matter how small—matters.
  4. Vulnerability connects us. When I share my struggles, I discover that I am not alone.
  5. Resilience is built through trying again. Courage is not the absence of failure—it is the decision to keep going.

These lessons remind me daily that my humanity is not a flaw but a gift, and that every mistake I make has the power to shape me into someone wiser, kinder, and stronger.

Posted in Celebrating Life, Helping Others, Life, Love and Blessings

Embracing Humanity: The Beauty and Struggles of Being Human

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Yes, you have read the title correctly, but can you recall words that stay with you? A wise soul once urged me to be careful. The exact words stay with me each day and guide me. I interpreted it as not living with regret, being my best friend, being responsible rather than reckless.

What does it mean to be human?

Being human is a gift worth celebrating. We are blessed with the ability to feel deeply, to create, to love, to dream, and to connect with one another. But being human also means facing challenges, misunderstandings, and sometimes the pain of not being treated as we deserve. It is in those moments that we are reminded of both the beauty and the complexity of the human experience.

Reality

Not everyone will treat us with kindness, fairness, or respect. Sometimes, this happens because people are struggling within themselves—they may be carrying burdens we cannot see, acting from hurt, insecurity, or fear. At other times, it may be because their values differ from ours or because they have not yet learned how to love or respect others.

While it can be painful, understanding this truth allows us to respond with wisdom rather than bitterness. I have learnt not to let it prevent me from being me and to focus on always being a better me.

Coping

Celebrating being human means embracing both the joys and the struggles. It means realizing that while we cannot control how others behave, we can choose how we respond. We can rise above negativity by holding on to kindness, standing firm in our worth, and not letting someone else’s actions define our self-value. It may not always be easy but remember, it’s also not impossible.

Tough choices

And sometimes, the healthiest response is distance. Choosing to step back from people who consistently hurt, belittle, or drain us is not wrong—it is self-respect. Protecting our peace does not mean we love less, it means we love ourselves enough to set boundaries. We can still wish others well, pray for them, and forgive them, but we don’t have to keep them close if their presence keeps us from growing or steals our joy.

Reflection

At the same time, being human also calls us to reflect on how we treat others. I believe in treating others as we would like to be treated. Are we living by the same respect, patience, and compassion we hope to receive? Are we being the example of love that we wish to see in the world? When we celebrate our humanity, we are not just grateful for our strengths—we are also humble about our flaws and committed to growth.

The truth is, every person we meet is on their own journey of learning. Some will bless us with love and encouragement. Others will test us with their actions and attitudes. Both are teachers. The ones who love us show us joy, and the ones who hurt us show us strength.

To celebrate being human is to embrace it all—the highs, the lows, the lessons, and the blessings. And when we understand why people don’t always treat us the way we deserve, we can choose not to let it break us, but instead allow it to shape us into more compassionate, resilient, and loving souls—while also remembering that it’s okay to walk away when necessary.

What can you do? Allow me to summarize what you can do on a daily basis, taking it step by step and bit by bit:

  • Focus on your self-care
  • Be your best friend
  • Find positives out of every negative
  • Keep your faith
  • Celebrate your milestones!
  • Be patient
  • Do not procrastinate
  • Be rooted in resilience

The question at the end of it all is, can you implement these suggestions? Also, what does embracing humanity mean to you? Please take the time to let me know and also take the time to share your suggestions!

Posted in Uncategorized

Celebrating the Power of 1 Moment of Clarity

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Sometimes all it takes is one moment—one blink of insight, one quiet nudge from within—to completely shift your perspective.

It doesn’t have to be loud. It doesn’t have to be dramatic. But it’s powerful.

Clarity often comes like a whisper in the stillness, breaking through the noise we’ve been drowning in for days, weeks, maybe even years. It may show up in the middle of a conversation, during a walk outside, while you’re journaling, or even as you simply sit in silence with yourself.

And suddenly, the fog lifts.

That one moment of clarity might be:

  • Realizing it’s time to let go of what no longer serves you.
  • Understanding that you’ve been enough all along.
  • Choosing peace over pressure.
  • Seeing a situation for what it truly is—not what fear made it seem.
  • Or just deciding you’re ready for something new, something better.

We often underestimate the power of one moment. But that moment can become the seed of transformation—the turning point that leads to change, growth, and renewal.

I’ve learned to celebrate these small awakenings. I’ve come to see them as sacred gifts. They might not solve everything instantly, but they remind me that I’m still growing, still listening, still evolving.

If you’ve had a moment like that recently—hold onto it. Let it guide your next steps. Let it anchor you when things feel unsure. You don’t need to have it all figured out. Sometimes, one clear step is more than enough.

And if you’re still waiting for that moment? Be patient. It will come. The heart knows how to find its way through.

Today, I celebrate the power of just one moment of clarity—because one moment is sometimes all it takes to change everything.

Posted in Uncategorized

Celebrating World Steelpan Day – Honouring the Rhythm of Our Nation

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Every note of the steelpan carries a story—a story of a people’s resilience, creativity, and determination to turn struggle into something beautiful. When those sweet, vibrant tones fill the air, it’s more than just music. It’s the voice of Trinidad and Tobago, calling to the world.

World Steelpan Day, officially recognized by the United Nations on August 11, 2023, is celebrated annually on August 11. It honours the steelpan as the only acoustic musical instrument invented in the 20th century and as a cultural treasure that belongs not just to our nation, but to the world.

The Journey of the Steelpan – From Humble Beginnings to World Stage

  • Early 1900s – In the working-class communities of Port of Spain, Trinidad, African descendants used tamboo bamboo (bamboo sticks) to create rhythmic music for Carnival. These rhythms were born from traditions that survived the Middle Passage and the colonial era.
  • 1930s – Musicians began experimenting with metal objects such as biscuit tins, oil drums, and dustbin covers. This experimentation led to new sounds, sharper tones, and the beginnings of melody.
  • Late 1930s to 1940s – Innovators like Winston “Spree” Simon, Ellie Mannette, and Neville Jules refined the instrument, tuning sections of the drum to produce distinct musical notes. The transformation from makeshift percussion to a full melodic instrument was underway.
  • 1951 – The Trinidad All Steel Percussion Orchestra (TASPO) was formed to represent Trinidad and Tobago at the Festival of Britain. This was a landmark moment—the steelpan was now recognized internationally.
  • 1960s–1970s – Panorama competitions were born, giving steel orchestras a grand stage to showcase skill, creativity, and arrangements. The sound of steelpan became an inseparable part of Carnival and national identity.
  • 1992 – The steelpan was declared the National Instrument of Trinidad and Tobago.
  • 2023 – The United Nations General Assembly declared August 11 as World Steelpan Day, officially recognizing its cultural significance globally.

Why We Celebrate

The steelpan is more than music—it is a symbol of transformation. It emerged from a time when certain drums were banned, yet people found a way to create a new sound, using discarded oil drums and pure imagination. It represents the spirit of turning challenges into opportunities, of finding joy despite adversity.

Today, steelpan music is played worldwide—in schools, orchestras, and festivals from London to Tokyo, New York to Johannesburg. It continues to bring people together, proving that joy is truly a universal language.

Keeping the Rhythm Alive

On this World Steelpan Day, we celebrate:

  • The Pioneers – Innovators, tuners, and arrangers who gave the world this gift.
  • The Performers – Pannists of all ages who dedicate hours to perfecting their craft.
  • The Communities – From panyards to global stages, where music is not just played but lived.
  • The Future – Young players learning to carry forward the legacy with pride.

Let us teach the next generation not just to play the notes, but to understand the story behind them. Let them feel the pride of holding an instrument that is a living piece of history.

Happy World Steelpan Day!
May the music of our national instrument continue to inspire, unite, and celebrate the heartbeat of our people. Because when we celebrate the steelpan, we celebrate ourselves—and the rhythm of our nation lives on.

Posted in Being Prayerful, Celebrate Today, Celebrating Existence, Celebrating Life, Life, Love and Blessings

When Helping Hurts: Staying True to Yourself Despite Misunderstandings

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Life has a way of testing the sincerity of our intentions. There are moments when you step forward to help, to comfort, to guide—and instead of gratitude or understanding, you meet suspicion, judgment, or even hurtful words. I’ve been there more times than I can count. Each time, I wonder: Why is it that when you try to do good, it’s sometimes met with anything but kindness in return?

Helping people is never just about actions—it’s about heart. I’ve always believed that if you have the ability to make someone’s burden lighter, even in a small way, you should. Whether it’s lending a hand, sharing advice, or simply being present, the goal has always been to leave a person better than I found them. But along the way, I’ve learned a hard truth: your good intentions won’t always be seen the way you hope.

Being misunderstood can cut deep. It’s not just the act of being wrongly judged—it’s the ache of knowing that your sincerity was overlooked. At times, I’ve walked away feeling like I should stop caring so much, stop trying so hard. But then I remember—my actions speak of who I am, not of what others choose to believe about me.

The truth is, you can’t control how people receive your help. Some will accept it and cherish it. Others might question your motives. And a few may even turn your kindness into a weapon against you. That’s the risk of living with an open heart. But it’s also the beauty of it—you keep planting seeds, even if you don’t always see them grow.

So what should you do when helping hurts—especially when people can’t accept your pure heart?

  1. Stand firm in your truth. You know your intentions. Don’t let someone else’s opinion rewrite your story.
  2. Release the need for approval. Kindness given with strings attached isn’t pure kindness. Give freely, and let go of how it’s received.
  3. Set healthy boundaries. Being kind doesn’t mean allowing others to repeatedly hurt you. Distance is not unkindness—it’s self-respect.
  4. Choose your battles wisely. Not every misunderstanding needs defending. Sometimes silence speaks louder than explanations.
  5. Stay soft, but be strong. Don’t let bitterness take root. Protect your heart without closing it off completely.

I’ve realized that being misunderstood doesn’t make me wrong. It makes me human. And as long as I’m acting from a place of love and integrity, I can live with that. I’d rather risk being hurt than live a life closed off to compassion.

In the end, kindness is a long game. Even if the world doesn’t always respond the way we expect, the quiet satisfaction of knowing you tried—really tried—is its own reward. And sometimes, the ones who misunderstood you today may look back tomorrow and realize just how genuine you were all along.

Posted in Celebrating Life, Life, Love and Blessings

🎓 Celebrating Preschool Graduation – Tiny Caps, Big Dreams: The Journey Has Started, and This Is Just the Beginning 🌟

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Today, I sat in the audience with a heart full of emotion and pride as my little one took the stage in a tiny cap and gown. The moment felt surreal—a mix of joy, nostalgia, and amazement. We were there to celebrate a milestone that marks so much more than the end of preschool. We were celebrating growth, courage, friendship, and the beautiful beginning of a lifelong journey.

The excitement in the room was contagious. Bright eyes sparkled with anticipation, and little hands waved to proud parents and teachers. There were giggles, hugs, and the occasional shy glance—but most of all, there was joy. Pure, radiant joy.

Watching the children perform their songs, recite their lines, and walk proudly to collect their certificates was truly heartwarming. Each of them has come such a long way—from learning to share and follow routines to recognizing letters, numbers, and the magic of their own creativity. They’ve blossomed before our eyes.

What made this celebration even more touching was the way the children celebrated each other. The friendships they’ve built are real and sweet—rooted in playtime, shared snacks, teamwork, and the occasional tumble followed by a helping hand. They’ve learned not just the ABCs, but the foundations of kindness, empathy, and cooperation.

None of this would have been possible without the incredible dedication and love of their teachers (teachers Ms Dana and Ms. Saraswati, school coordinator Ms Teeluck, assistants Ms Goorah and Ms Howard, support staff Ms Laura) These amazing educators have given more than lessons—they’ve given their hearts. They’ve created safe, joyful spaces where our children have been able to explore, ask questions, make mistakes, and grow. For every carefully prepared craft, patient explanation, and comforting hug—thank you. You’ve left a lasting imprint on our little ones’ lives.

As I watched my child smile from ear to ear, it struck me: this is just the beginning. The first step on a long, exciting road filled with learning, laughter, discovery, and dreams waiting to be fulfilled.

So today, we celebrate more than graduation. We celebrate tiny caps and big dreams. We celebrate the first chapter of a lifelong journey. And most of all, we celebrate the light in each child’s eyes—a light that reminds us all that the future is bright, and it starts right here.

Congratulations to our little graduates!
The journey has started… and this is just the beginning. 💛🌈📚

#TinyCapsBigDreams #PreschoolGraduation #JustTheBeginning #ProudParentMoment #TheJourneyStartsHere #LittleHeartsBigSteps

Posted in Amazon shopping, Awesome Deals, Back to school deals, Back to school deals, Celebrating Existence, Great deals, Office Supplies

Celebrating 15 Months and 178 Lists on Benable: My Why, My What, My How!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Fifteen months ago, I followed a gentle nudge — to share the things I genuinely love and use, not just with my close circle, but with the world. What began as a single list on Benable has now grown into an incredible library of 178 lists (and counting), each created with intention, honesty, and heart.

My Why: Serving Through Sharing

At the center of it all is a genuine desire to help others. I believe in lifting others up — whether it’s by recommending stuff I myself would use, offering inspiration through faith-based encouragement, or making someone’s day easier with travel ideas.

Sometimes people just need a little direction in a world full of choices. I share not to sell — but to serve. My lists are born out of real experiences, real needs, and real questions people ask every day.

My What: A Little Bit of Everything — With Love

My Benable space is filled with collections that meet people where they are. From self-care and wellness tools for moms and creatives, to smart toys for kids that make learning fun, every list solves a problem or adds joy.

If you’re preparing for a new school term, you’ll love my back-to-school picks. Need gift inspiration? I’ve got curated options for family gift ideas, gifts for teachers, and even book lover gifts.

For those looking for trendy fashion or those getting married, I have got you covered. If you are struggling with fibromyalgia or you have scoliosis, I have you covered. If your gluten intolerant or dealing with being lactose intolerant, I have you covered.

And if you’re looking for motivation or daily inspiration, my inspirational books list and motivational wall art bring encouragement into your space.

My How: Living What I List

I create each list with purpose. Everything I recommend is either something I personally use, have deeply researched, or trust enough to share with my own family. My process is simple — observe, experience, curate. I think of the busy parent looking to simplify mornings, the writer trying to stay organized, or even the artist or the student needing back to school essentials.

I also listen. Many of my lists are built from real conversations — like helping a friend plan a find food they can enjoy, or services they can benefit from, or compiling intriguing book titles based on what piques my interest.

And because I believe in living consciously, I’ve also created lists to support my diet and lists for eco-friendly habits and choices.

My Joy: Building a Trusted Space

The greatest joy in this journey is knowing that my recommendations have made a difference in someone’s life. Maybe it was a cozy home find that brought peace, or online courses that can help individuals realize their dreams. Even the smallest list, like my home and kitchen essentials, has the power to impact someone’s daily routine.

This platform has also allowed me to celebrate the little wins — like toys and book resources for little ones, feel-good product finds, or games that families can enjoy together or as simple as clothing for all family members.

Here are just a few of the 178+ lists I’ve created so far:

And that’s just a sample! You can explore all my lists anytime at benable.com/rachaelathomasj

What’s Next: More Purpose, More People, More Possibilities

This journey is only beginning. As I reflect on these past 15 months, I’m reminded that we all have something to share — something that can help someone else. Through Benable, I’ve been blessed with the chance to give back in a meaningful way, one list at a time.

Thank you to everyone who has browsed, clicked, shopped, or shared. You are part of this beautiful story. If you haven’t yet, I invite you to explore all my lists here — and maybe you’ll find a little magic too.

Here’s to helping, growing, and glowing — together. If you would like to join Benable please use this link https://benable.com/i/SW8FH. Benable allows you to share favorite things, and choose from 40,000 brands soskip the waitlist with my link.

Posted in Celebrate Today, Celebrating Existence, Celebrating Life, Love and Blessings, Love You Daddy

Honouring My Dad Today and Always- A Father’s Day Tribute my Dad

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Father’s Day carries a different weight in my heart since 2018 — the year I said goodbye to my beloved dad, Ramchit Ramesh Thomas. Though the years have passed, the ache of missing him never truly fades. But neither does the love. Neither does the legacy.

Don’t get me wrong, I am thrilled that my kids were able to create memorable moments with their Dad, doing their fun creations and seeing them all excited but this Father’s Day, I find myself reflecting on Daddy a lot. It is not just about the man he was, but on the quiet, enduring power of the life he lived — and the strength he showed, especially during his battle with Motor Neurone Disease (MND). That journey was painful to witness, but in the midst of it, Daddy remained kind, brave, and deeply loving — right to the end.

Photo credit: Pinterest

Daddy loved life, he valued comradry, he seized any opportunity to help because this was his very nature and he always gave his best. He taught us never to give up and he took care of everyone around him. He was genuine, straightforward and full of life. His life was one of service and dedication and he always taught us how to be good and do good.

He and Mummy were always a team and they are the best parents we could ask for. They taught us how to pray, how to care, how to be genuine and to treat others as we would like to be treated because this is the way Daddy lived and the way Mummy continues to live. Daddy was not just the president of the Coromandel Shiv Mandir or the man who worked Petrotrin for the majority of his life, but he was well loved and respected by all who knew him because of how he lived, and this defined who he was.

Photo credit: Pinterest

In 2018, I wrote a post titled In Loving Memory of My Dad, Ramchit Ramesh Thomas (read it here). It was my way of beginning to process the unimaginable — learning to live without him while holding onto everything he left behind in spirit: his values, his faith, his quiet humour, his deep sense of responsibility.

Today, I continue that tribute by dedicating my first play, Shattered Dreams and Silver Linings, to his memory. This play has been staged once and it was in the Daphne Joseph Hackett Theatre in Bridgetown, Barbados. It is a story shaped by reality and awareness — by brokenness and hope, echoing that life can change in a split second by a few words that explain months of symptoms that go unexplained. In many ways, it is our story. The journey of loss, yes — but also of grace, love, and the ability to rise. The idea for this play came from a combination of several things- personal experience, an understanding of a lack of awareness when it comes to dealing with challenging medical conditions and a desire to help others plan ahead for difficult situations. 

Though he never got to see this chapter of my life unfold, he was aware of the publication of Eternal Inspiration which I dedicated to him and Mummy. I know his presence is always with me. My dad was never one for loud declarations, but his presence was powerful — gentle yet grounding. That same quiet strength is what carries me today.

So, this Father’s Day, I honour him not only with memories, but with purpose. I honour him by continuing to live a life he would be proud of. I honour him by telling stories that matter — because he mattered.

He is loved, missed, and remembered always.

His story lives on in ours.

Read the original tribute from 2018 here
And my Father’s Day reflection post here

Posted in Celebrate Today, Celebrating Existence, Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji

Celebrating Sri Swamiji’s Guinness World Records and the Living Forest of Peace

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Yes, this post is dedicated to His Holiness and celebrating Him. He is our dearest Pujya Appaji. I have never had a reason to doubt Appaji and very often I refer to Him as the Divine Master and sometimes too, the Bearded Master who is filled with compassion.

As many know, the spiritual legacy of His Holiness Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, founder of the Avadhoota Datta Peetham in Mysore, is filled not only with divine teachings and healing music, but also with miraculous achievements that continue to inspire the world. Pujya Appaji can be described in so many ways. He is His Holiness, Appaji, Tataji, Aripo Muni Raja, Nada Brahma and so much more. His life is a tapestry woven with threads of compassion, dedication, He is purity, He is peace and tranquility, He is sincerity in its purest form, He is wisdom at its fullest and day in day out, every waking second, moment after moment, He continues to make a global impact—and many of these threads have been officially recognized by Guinness World Records.

Today’s was the most recent. https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1667rzsLez/ What was it for?

A Living Miracle: 10,836 Rare Bonsai Trees

Today, June 14th, 2025 the Guinness World Records awarded a new title to His Holiness Dr. Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji and Avadhoota Datta Peetham for housing 10,836 of the world’s rarest bonsai trees in one single location. This sacred forest of miniatures—each a living soul—forms the largest bonsai collection in the world. These trees are not just a botanical marvel but also a symbol of patience, care, and spiritual discipline.

Vanadurga Vriksha Shanti Yagnam: A Prayer for the Planet

What sets this divine garden apart is not just the trees, but the sacred rituals that breathe life into them. Pujya Appaji performed the Vanadurga Vriksha Shanti Yagnam, a powerful Vedic ceremony dedicated to Mother Nature and the guardian deity of forests, Vanadurga Devi. This ancient yagna was conducted in the very presence of these rare bonsais—a spiritual act to invoke healing, harmony, and balance for all living beings and the natural world.

This Guinness World Record Pujya Appaji said, “Thank You team Bonsai. Today’s Bonsai Guinness Record is not just my effort; it is the effort of many in the background.” https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16WyYR4W6h/

So what are Pujya Appaji’s other record-breaking feats of devotion and harmony?

Pujya Appaji’s mission of global peace and spiritual healing has led to numerous Guinness World Records, including:

  • Most people chanting (Hanuman Chalisa) Led 128,918 participants in Tenali, Andhra Pradesh
  • Largest music therapy lesson- Conducted a therapy session with 1,814 participants at the Sydney Opera House on 6 April 2015
  • Longest chanting marathon (team)- A relay of continuous chanting for 24 hr 10 min 8 sec at Karya Siddhi Hanuman Temple, Frisco, Texas on 31 July 2015
  • Largest breathing (pranayama) lesson- Hosted at India Community Center, Milpitas, California, USA on 10 July 2016.
  • Largest online video album of people chanting- Compiled 40,976 individual chanting videos; announced in Carapichaima, Trinidad and Tobago on 31 July 2016.
  • Largest display of bonsai trees-Showcased 2,649 bonsai trees at the International Bonsai Convention in Mysore Ashram on 21 December 2016.
  • Most bird species in an aviary. His Shuka Vana aviary housed 486 bird species on 6 May 2017.
  • Largest Hindu Smriti (scriptural text)
    A monumental Bhagavad Gita Smriti measuring 2.24 m × 1.56 m, completed on 26 May 2017.
  • World’s largest special postal stamp
    Made by Avadhoota Datta Peetham, 2.87 m², on 26 May 2018
  • Largest online video album of birthday wishes/greetings- Compiled 7,651 birthday-message videos on 10 June 2022 to celebrate Pujya Appaji’s 80th birthday.
  • Largest online video album of people walking; Included 6,389 walking-video submissions tied to the “Vishwashanti Padā Yātrā” virtual walkathon on 10 June 2022.
  • Largest simultaneous Hindu text recital- 1,329 participants recited the Srimad Bhagavad Gita together at Allen Event Center, Texas on 13 August 2022.
  • Largest special stamp (Nada Mantapa image)-Measuring 13.104 m², created at Avadhoota Datta Peetham, Mysuru on 13 December 2024.
  • Longest chanting marathon (team)- A new record of 33 hr 33 min 33 sec of continuous Hanuman Chalisa team chanting, held 12–13 December 2024 at Nada Mantapa

These are all rooted in the Swamiji’s vision of “Lokāḥ Samastāḥ Sukhino Bhavantu” – May all beings everywhere be happy and peaceful.

Pujya Appaji’s messages are messages beyond records. These world records are not mere numbers. They represent a global spiritual movement led by a realized Master who walks gently on Earth while guiding millions toward inner peace. From sacred chants that echo healing to ancient trees that whisper wisdom, Pujya Appaji’s works are a reminder that divine miracles happen not only in the heavens but also on Earth, when one lives in service to all life. Pujya Appaji’s remarkable achievements span spiritual, ecological, musical, and community domains—reflecting his holistic vision of service, harmony, and global unity.

Let us bow in gratitude and wonder at the divine mission of Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, whose legacy continues to grow—like the sacred bonsais—quietly powerful, deeply rooted, and eternally inspiring. Sri Guru Datta.