Author: rachaelathomasj

Posted in Being Prayerful, Blessings from Appaji, Celebrating Existence, Celebrating Life, Life, Love and Blessings

Celebrating Time: Happy New Year 2025!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Hey everyone, Happy New Year and all the best to you and your loved ones in 2025!

As many of you know, I always say that I am eternally blessed, and I am forever grateful because I mean it! Recently, I have added moving forward with faith so it’s now: Eternally grateful, forever blessed and moving forward with faith.

Looking back at the past year, I am grateful for not giving up! I am grateful for my persistence, resilience, the love and support of those in my circle, opportunities to create memorable moments and blessings from the Divine Master.

I am not saying that it wasn’t a year with challenges, but I am not dwelling on them. It was a year of valuable learning, experiences and growth. While I didn’t run from challenges, I have learnt the value of taking the time to put things into context, get clarity and take it bit by bit and step by step, one moment at a time.

What are some of my wins?

  1. Being able to spread positivity, one person at a time. This blog, Celebrating Existence, is now in 143 countries, it is being viewed daily, and it has 26k viewers.
  2. On TikTok I have been sharing positive messages via rachaelathomasj and I have generally been consistent.
  3. My YouTube channel continues to grow.
  4. Additions to my Time to Travel to Trinidad and Tobago were made.
  5. I completed the script for a play entitled Shattered Dreams and Silver Linings which is due to be staged in Barbados this year. The play itself is based on a storyline very close to my heart and seeks to bring awareness and a need for persons to look out for each other. It focuses echoes so many things, primarily that things can change in a split second, not everything can be fixed and brings together a focus on health, family, personal struggles just to name a few, reminding us of two things I always say- no one can fit in your shoes the way you do and tomorrow is promised to no one.
  6. Being able to deal with some tough situations, knowing that I did the right thing, so even I can say, I did it my way!
  7. Being saved from a catastrophic situation where one job opportunity could have placed my family in harm’s way. Thankfully the Divine Master protected us and took care of us as always.

This being said, I wish each and every one of you and your beautiful families a joyful, peaceful, and love-filled New Year! May this coming year bring gentle moments, shared laughter, healing, new beginnings, and the kind of happiness that lingers in your heart. May your homes be filled with warmth, your days with purpose, and your lives with blessings beyond measure. Here’s to new memories, stronger bonds, and all the magic this fresh chapter holds—Happy New Year!

@rachaelathomasj

Happy New Year 2025! #newyearsday #happynewyear #rachaelathomasj #celebratingexistence #2025 #today #motivation #inspiration #fyp #faith #blessed #you

♬ original sound – rachaelathomasj
@rachaelathomasj

Happy New Year 2025 #happynewyear #goodvibes #positivity #rachaelathomasj #celebratingexistence #newyearsday #2025 #lovelife #fyp #today #blessed #you

♬ 2025 Happy New year – Alexander Shangoi Syiem
Posted in Celebrate Today, Celebrating Existence, Life, World Steelpan Day 2024

Happy World Steelpan Day 2024!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj
Photo showing the Nada Sangama Steel Orchestra led by His Holiness Parama Pujya Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji

Yes, today, August 11th, 2024, is World Steelpan Day. In recognition of today’s historical significance, this post is dedicated to the steelpan. As such I begin this post by highlighting the Nada Sangama Steel Orchestra led by His Holiness Parama Pujya Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji.

For those who may not be aware, Trinidad and Tobago is the home of the steelpan. This year, on July 3rd, 2024, the steelpan officially became known as Trinidad and Tobago’s national musical instrument following the passage of legislation in Parliament.

Also, for those who may be unaware, the United Nations has now recognized August 11 as World Steelpan Day. Just a few days ago, on August 9, 2024, Trinidad and Tobago achieved another milestone in securing the steelpan as its own when it attained a geographical indicator (GI) for the manufacturing of steelpans. This was approved by the Trinidad and Tobago IP (Intellectual Property) office and therefore gives all steelpan manufacturers and producers the right to affix the GI branding once established standards of production are applied.

The steelpan is an acoustic instrument with a rich cultural history that reflects the creativity and resilience of the people of Trinidad and Tobago. This distinctive instrument, recognized for its unique and captivating sound, has grown from modest origins to become a global symbol of Trinidad and Tobago’s culture and a staple in diverse music genres.

The steelpan’s story dates back to the early 20th century in Trinidad and Tobago. At that time, under British colonial rule, the African descendants who made up much of the population were prohibited from using their traditional drums in their cultural and religious ceremonies. In response to these restrictions, they began experimenting with alternative materials to create new instruments, which eventually led to the creation of the steelpan.

The first steelpans were crafted from discarded oil barrels, which were abundant due to the island’s active oil industry. Musicians would carefully hammer the bottoms of these barrels into concave shapes, with different sizes and depths producing various pitches and tones. This innovative approach laid the groundwork for the steelpan’s development into the instrument we know today.

The 1930s and 1940s were pivotal in the steelpan’s evolution. Innovators like Winston “Spree” Simon and Ellie Mannette played key roles in refining the instrument, exploring different techniques to enhance its sound. Ellie Mannette, often called the “Father of the Modern Steelpan,” was the first to create a steelpan with multiple notes using a full oil barrel, establishing the modern design of the instrument.

As the steelpan continued to develop, its popularity grew. Over the years it has become central to Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival celebrations, providing the energetic soundtrack to these vibrant festivities. Steelbands are ensembles of musicians playing steelpans of varying sizes and pitches, became a staple of these celebrations and the steelpan became synonymous with Caribbean musical culture. In this post I have also opted to highlight the Phoenix Steel Orchestra which is based in Belmont for the awesome work this very young vibrant band continues to do and both Junior Regrello and Johann Chuckaree who over the recent years have come together to do great work together! I have also opted to highlight Dr Lennox “Boogsie” Sharpe also known as Dr Len Boogsie Sharpe who is a successful and popular composer and arranger of steelpan music. 

Posted in Love and Blessings, Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji

Celebrating Pujya Appaji!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

In this post I am celebrating His Holiness Parama Pujya Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, our dearest Pujya Appaji! Appaji is like no other and those who know His Holiness can surely agree that He has never been! Appaji, over and over again, I place my most humble prostrations at Your Lotus Feet!

Not one day in my life have I ever questioned Appaji or His greatness and Appaji knows I never would. My journey with Appaji began years ago as a little girl seeing His name and trying to say it and practicing it syllable by syllable without knowing Sachchidanda means ‘truth, consciousness and bliss”. To see Pujya Appaji’s smiling face is always a comfort.  To hear His voice, read His messages, go through the different platforms He exposes us to daily is only just a fraction of the many blessings we receive on a daily basis!

From the very first day I saw Pujya Appaji, His priceless smile and His eyes said it all! Every day of our lives with Pujya Appaji has been a blessing and no number of words can adequately say Thank You to His Holiness for all He has done for us and continues to do for us! As I am writing this, I am listening to Appaji’s bhajans, and His voice is my comfort.

Photo Credit: Avadhoota Datta Peetham

When I posted on Facebook a few days ago it felt like I was looking on at a dream and as these past two weeks have unfolded Appaji and Lord Hanuman showed that together They have provided protection and guidance consistently as always.

 Indeed, I had a career opportunity that I was working towards for over the last eight years. When it came it felt surreal. I had forgotten about it for a bit because of how long I had applied but I was honored to be selected. I spoke to Shiva and let him know I needed the kids and him with me as I couldn’t be away from them for over a month and leave them alone so he knew what my thoughts were and though I followed the instructions I was given, I spoke mentally to Appaji saying, “Whatever You decide I will follow!” The reality was that I just needed to make an effort to show interest and I did, but nothing else was in my hands and with good reason! This job would have placed my entire family in jeopardy because as I said, I would have been on an island waiting with Shiva and our little ones for Hurricane Beryl to hit. Seeing the damage it wreaked on so many people in so many countries, knowing how many people it affected, I know what we were spared from.

My reality is this:

  1. Pujya Appaji and Lord Hanumanta have saved me several times and I will always be eternally grateful for this.
  2. Pujya Appaji has taught me the value of silence on so many levels.
  3. Pujya Appaji has taught me why I need to focus.
  4. Pujya Appaji has given me many avenues to be good and do good.

Like me, many of you can attest to the fact that:

5. Pujya Appaji blesses us each day abundantly and no number of words can adequately say Thank You because we owe Pujya Appaji a debt of gratitude that we can never repay.

6. Pujya Appaji has found so many avenues to interact with us on a daily basis that He reminds us He is always with us. We have Pujya Appaji’s social media platforms, SGS Posts and all other apps, YouTube, the Ashramas and Datta Yoga Centers globally, Kriya Yoga, Bhagavad Gita, Kavachas, daily live sessions, Dattavani speeches and Bhajans just to name a few.

7. Pujya Appaji has established several Bala Datta Centers to ensure that our children are taken care of.

8. Pujya Appaji has authorized the publishing of so many books available in print and as e-books on sites like Amazon.

9. Pujya Appaji has given us Ragas and provided us with Healing Music.

10. Pujya Appaji has and continues to tell us and show us day after day, how to take better care of ourselves.

11. Pujya Appaji has always been committed to helping us take better care of ourselves.

12. Pujya Appaji has always been committed to serving mankind.

13. Pujya Appaji has and continues to teach us how to take better care of our environment, and by extension, this world we live in.

14. Pujya Appaji’s actions have always been selfless.

15. Pujya Appaji has always been committed to helping people the world over!

16. Pujya Appaji always urges us to live together.

17. Pujya Appaji does not discriminate.

18. Pujya Appaji is the purest representation of Divinity, Selflessness and all that is good.

19. Pujya Appaji leads by example.

20. Pujya Appaji’s commitment, dedication and love have been unwavering.

21. Pujya Appaji loves us all and that love speaks volumes.

Appaji, we pray for Your Health and will continue to do so! We thank You immensely for all You have done for us and continue to do for us, every second of every day! We love You Appaji!

Posted in Benable, Life, Love and Blessings

Celebrating excellent deals and products!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Hey everyone, I am here to share some excellent deals and products I have found with you! They are links I personally created of products that I have either used over the years or have every intention of getting.

They include lists based on fashion choices and includes options for the entire family! They include places we have visited and places we would love to visit! Similarly, they also include fashionable accessories with exceptional value at great prices too from various online stores! More so they include books for all age groups meaning both kids and adults and includes books I personally know of so I can recommend them myself! They also include options I use based on my own dietary restrictions. With this in mind you can rest assured that these are recommendations I would use for myself and my family and at the time I am posting this I have 28 lists posted!

Earlier this week I created this post about it too! Here is the link! http://thesmartexpress.click/2024/06/17/sharing-excellent-shopping-deals-and-products/

All in all, I see this as another avenue to help others and it also comes down to loving what I do and doing what I love!

Here are some of my lists! You are also free to share them with others which makes it even more exciting!

Helping others is a key aspect of affiliate marketing I am thoroughly enjoying! As I always say, this is yours for the taking! Also, from me to you, Happy shopping!

Posted in Love You Daddy, Remembering Loved Ones

Celebrating my Dad on Father’s Day!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Today I celebrate my Dad (Ramchit) on Father’s Day!  Today I:

Remember a man of

Admirable qualities; a

Man whose

Character and resilience

Have spoken volumes; 

Integrity has been unwavering

Through Time!

Though Daddy is not with us, he will never be forgotten! 

Maathru Devo Bhava, Pithru Devo Bhava, Aacharya Devo Bhava, Athidhi Devo Bhava.

Translation: Honour thy Mother as God. Honour thy Father as God. Honour thy Teacher as God.Honour thy Guest as God.

While I do not say much, it never means I do not think of my Dad so many times in a day. This is something many can relate to if their father’s too have passed or other loved ones have passed! Loss is never something we get used to but we accept it as a part of life as best as we can!

I remember his final moments, our last conversation, times we spent together, the way he showered all of us with love, the life he lived, the things he did, the sound of his voice, his smile, his laughter, special moments he and Mummy created for us, things they did, family traditions they created and so, so much more! Some voids can never be filled, and this is one, but the moments we have are what give us comfort and keep us going!

There are so many things I learnt from both my Mom (who thankfully is still with us) and my Dad. With Daddy in particular, these are just some:

1. Out of every negative, look for a positive!

2. Show me your friends and I will tell you who you are!

3. If you fail to prepare, be prepared to fail!

4. Don’t do unto others what you don’t like for yourself!       

Ramchit Ramesh Thomas was my Daddy, and I couldn’t ask for a better father! His life was dedicated to service and to helping others and it is something he and Mummy taught all of us- their three (3) children. He taught us the value of hard work and of honesty!  

While I wish things could be different, I know they cannot, but I cherish all the time we had with him! 

He always gave his best! He loved life, he loved his family, he always gave selflessly, and he fought a brave fight!  He lived a life many of us can learn from and he gave us lots of wonderful memories we can hold on to! 

I am forever grateful for the opportunity to say the late Ramchit Ramesh Thomas was my Daddy! Both he and my Mom have played a critical role in who I am today!  Happy Father’s Day Daddy! We love you!  We will always love you! Though you are not here physically, you will never be forgotten!

Posted in Benable

Celebrating my experience on Benable.com

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Hey everyone, have you ever heard of Benable? Trust me before I saw the option to join, I had never heard of it! Once I got the opportunity to join (not sign up as it takes way longer) I grabbed it and knew it would be something I would enjoy.

So, in this sense, yes, you read it correctly! I am on Benable and I am loving the experience! My journey began in April, and it continues to be a positive experience that allows me to share products I trust and know of with others the world over!

More so it allows me to introduce people to deals and enriching experiences that they too can benefit from.

Here is a link to my post of The Smart Express http://thesmartexpress.click/2024/06/15/celebrating-my-benable-com-experience/.

What I enjoy too is the daily feedback from the Benable team and the opportunity I get to help others on a daily basis to get top quality products I know of so that I can recommend them!

Being a mom of two wonderful kids, it allows me to look for things I can get for them or things I have gotten for them and share good recommendations with others. I have also shared books I have read over the years through the course of my studies and my teaching career with others. Similarly, I have been able to share fashionable clothing, accessories, products as well as places we have visited and hope to visit with others!

All in all, it is a unique platform that allows me to make shareable, top-quality lists that can help people the world over!

With this I invite you to view my lists. Please feel free to view them and to share them with others too! Enjoy the opportunity to check out awesome products and share them with others! Here are the links:

Also, if you would like to join me on Benable please leave me a comment here or send me a message. So, from me to you Happy Shopping!

Posted in Celebrate Today, Learning Opportunity, Life, Unfortunate Experiences

Celebrating Embracing Humility and Honesty: Striving for Excellence Amidst Misunderstandings

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Yes, I am embracing humility and honesty because this is who I am. I always do my best! All through my life as far as I can remember, I have always treated others the way I would want to be treated. People who really know me would say yes, it is true! Unfortunately, those who don’t understand me would misunderstand my silence or my staying away from persons who misunderstand me as something it is not. Even better, those in my circle keep me going and I know I cannot do it without Pujya Appaji.

In life, we often aspire to do our best, guided by the principles of humility and honesty. Giving my best is always me! These values shape our actions and interactions, leading us towards personal growth and meaningful connections. However, despite our best intentions, we may encounter situations where others misunderstand us or accuse us of things we haven’t done. Why? Is it so they can feel better about themselves, or their mindset is just so low that they cannot think about anything better? How do we deal with such situations while staying true to ourselves? It lies in making a conscious decision to continue being your best friend!

The Virtue of Doing Your Best: Doing your best isn’t just about achieving perfection; it’s about giving your all, whether in work, relationships, or personal endeavors. It’s a mindset that drives continuous improvement and resilience in the face of challenges.

The Humility Factor: Humility is often misunderstood as weakness, but it’s a strength that allows us to acknowledge our imperfections and learn from them. Being humble doesn’t mean diminishing your achievements; it means recognizing that you are part of something bigger than yourself.

The Importance of Honesty: Honesty forms the foundation of trust and integrity. It’s about being truthful, even when it’s uncomfortable or unpopular. Honesty builds credibility and fosters genuine connections with others.

Navigating Misunderstandings: Despite our best efforts to be humble and honest, misunderstandings can arise. People may misinterpret our actions or motives, leading to false accusations. It’s crucial to respond calmly and with clarity, seeking to understand the root of the misunderstanding.

Dealing with False Accusations: Being accused of things we haven’t done can be hurtful and challenging. It tests our patience and resilience. In such situations, it’s important to stay calm, gather facts to refute the accusations if needed, and seek support from trustworthy persons who know the truth and accept it for what it is.

Embracing Resilience and Integrity: Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks. It’s about facing adversity with courage and determination while integrity on the other hand, is staying true to your values and principles, even when it’s difficult.

In a world where misunderstandings and false accusations surround us day after day, staying true to ourselves becomes a powerful act of resilience and integrity. By doing our best, embracing humility, and practicing honesty, we not only grow personally but also inspire others to do the same. Let’s navigate life’s challenges with grace and integrity, knowing that staying true to who we are is the ultimate victory.

From me to you, here’s to celebrating your journey!

Posted in Blessings from Appaji, Life, Love and Blessings

Celebrating Existence: the 2023 chapter!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Wow! What a year but it’s over and it’s time to close the 2023 chapter! My comfort is this: see it for what it is, accept it for the lessons and experiences and give thanks that I endured it!

The thing with 2023 is that it was a year unlike any other and enduring it must mean something right? From January to December there was a lot, especially of unexpected things, but we got through it! Remember a couple things:

I have done my best! The cards I have been given have been dealt with! This year has been filled with so many challenges I think they are outside all others.

The reality is if another year is like it, I would say my ‘back strong’ and I would not give up.

People look at you and they think your smile means you are on top of the world. They judge you; they accuse you of the worst things you are not even capable of, but they think it is okay! It can never be! Always remember, what you don’t like for yourself, don’t do to anyone else!

Those who know me would know I am pleasant, peaceful and I believe in treating others like I want to be treated. I stay away from drama. I maintain my silence as best as I can.

Thankfully I have been blessed with the love of my family and the people who fit in my circle.

What a year! Omg!

I have walked away from situations.

I have become more silent.

I have been at a loss for words.

I have severed ties.

I have walked away from toxic.

I have said no to hypocrisy.

I have survived.

I have met those who when they say stand up and wait you need to run for your life.

I have learnt to just do and move on.

But I have not lost my humanity.

I have not sacrificed my peace of mind.

I have stood up for myself.

I have learnt to believe more and more in my sayings!

No one can stand in my shoes or fit in them like me!

I am never alone!

Doing my best is always what matters!

All in all, I am determined to make 2024 better! All in all, like before, I am determined to be the best I can be! As I always say eternally grateful and forever blessed! I remain committed to helping people the world over one country at a time!

Nuts.com
Posted in Celebrating Existence, Celebrating Life, Life

Celebrating existence- action in the face of ill action!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Oh yes, in this post I am celebrating action in the face of inaction, so you definitely read it correctly! Sometimes I feel stunted into silence! Why? Honestly at times it’s difficult to say it is just one reason, but I know writing this post creates an avenue many may be able to relate to! 

Does it mean I am doing no more writing? By all means no! 

Some very wise souls imparted knowledge that have surely helped me get where I am at present!

One was, “Keep writing!” 

Another was to find a positive in every negative and to carefully think through each decision. 

Through and through those have kept me going! These and the love and support of my circle. Some days it feels smaller than other days but keeping my focus on those who need me has been of paramount importance!

Surely at times some of these things must have crossed your mind:

1. Those who have said things about you!

2. Those who track every step you take and make an issue of it!

3. Those who judge you incorrectly because they don’t know you!

4. Those who can’t handle your energy!

5. Those who drain your energy!

Honestly, I have had my fair share, but such is life! There is more to come because this is the story of life! 

And yes, if I got a dollar for every rotten thing that happened, no doubt, I would be a millionaire but that’s not my focus – just my way of laughing at some of the curve balls that have come my way. 

But the reality is, people will always talk about you. Some do it to feel better about themselves, others do it because it disturbs them!

Keep your focus more than anything! Always focus on being a better version of yourself and always ensure that you do not let anyone distract you from your goals!

Those who cannot handle your energy will find every reason to stay away from you! They will also try to deter you in every way but never be so focused that you cannot see what you need to do rather than what you want to do. That’s the difference between being focused and being so self-absorbed that you cannot see what is right in front of you or you cannot see things for what they are.

Do not let anyone drain your energy. Your energy is just as precious as your time. More than anything do not give up! Focus on making memorable moments! Rise in the face of adversity and remember you are not alone!

This was something I coined as a verse:

“Little grains of water

Little grains of sand

Make the mighty ocean 

And the mighty land.”

The aim of this is to always be reminded that no one and nothing is insignificant. Do not let anyone make you feel less than a person. If they do that to you, don’t think you need to repay the favour. Never underestimate your worth and your contribution.

From me to you: keep your focus! Love life and live life!

Nuts.com