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 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

Posted in Celebrating Existence, Celebrating Life, Happy Independence Day!, Trinidad and Tobago

Celebrating our 61st Independence Day!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Hey everyone! Yes, it’s Independence Day here and I am wishing all Trinidadians and Tobagonians the world over, a very Happy Independence Day!

This year Independence Day is a bit different but all in all a blessed occasion! In this past year especially, I have been able to find out so much more about our twin-island republic and yes, I wear many hats, but collectively, these ‘hats’ have helped me meet some wonderful people in both Trinidad and Tobago.

Today, I celebrate all of them and their respective journeys, their individual pursuits, their successes and their stories. Undoubtedly, they tell the story of our people- determined, patriotic, resilient and committed. They stand in the face of adversity and though at times may not be united, stand together if they really choose to. Over the years we have faced some extremely challenging moments that have shaken us in more ways than one, and yes, we still continue to persevere, but the fact that we choose not to give up is a testimony of its own.

This past year has seen the completion of Time to Travel to Trinidad and Tobago, and I will forever be grateful that I was inspired to use these words by the late Michael Anthony, a renowned Trinidadian author and historian who was born in Mayaro as they perfectly captured my thoughts and ideas in putting together this book.

Today is the 61st anniversary of our Independence! Here’s to many, many more filled with positivity! “Together we aspire, together we achieve!”

https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMjLsG7J8/

Posted in Amazon shopping, Back to school deals, Back to school deals, Great deals, Office Supplies

Excellent back to school deals on Amazon!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Hey everyone, you really don’t want to miss out on these deals! I’m sharing the links to the direct posts so here you go!

Fantastic back to school deals on Amazon!
https://thesmartexpress.click/2023/08/18/fantastic-back-to-school-deals-on-amazon/
Fantastic back to school deals on Amazon (Part 2)
https://thesmartexpress.click/2023/08/19/fantastic-back-to-school-deals-on-amazon-part-2/https://thesmartexpress.click/2023/08/19/fantastic-back-to-school-deals-on-amazon-part-2/

Here goes (1st post):

“Hey everyone, if you are looking for fantastic back to school deals, we’ve got some wonderful deals for you!

For starters, get huge savings on this pack of Sharpies as it is priced at 64% off! It means you will pay only $13.51. It’s 24 markers in assorted colors. They are ideal for notetaking, underlining, highlighting, drawing and lots more with no bleed, leaving your work looking clean! Here’s the link, https://amzn.to/45eIzRF.

With these Paper Mate ever strong #2 Pencils, you will get reinforced pencils that are break-resistant lead so when writing you will not face any problems. This purchase is for 6 Packs of 24 meaning you will get a total of 144 pencils at a 57% discount. This means you will pay only $19.85. Click here https://amzn.to/3P0qSi7 .

This next product is certainly a steal of a deal. Purchase it for only $0.97 when you visit https://amzn.to/44hzSEO and get it at 76% off. These Crayola colored pencils are long lasting and durable, safe and non-toxic. The available colors are red, red orange, orange, yellow, yellow green, green, sky blue, blue, purple, black, brown, and white.

Visit https://amzn.to/3E2dEMp and save 21% when you purchase this Crayola Washable Paint for kids in 6 classic colors and 6 glitter paint colors. Safe, non-toxic and washable, its smooth, creamy colors easily blend to create even more hues. The resealable caps ensure the paint stays brand new.

Here’s another beautiful item up for purchase. Letters to Open When: Write Now. Read Later. Treasure Forever is ideal for Long Distance Relationship Gifts, Gifts for Friends and Letter Books. Priced at $13.46, you can get it here https://amzn.to/47BGQaC . This is a meaningful way for friends, family, and long-distance loves to be there in spirit when they can’t be there in person. The gift-giver fills this book of letters with pep talks and good cheer, seals each envelope with a sticker, and gifts this keepsake for future opening. The recipient gets to break the seals to find the greatest gift: their loved one’s encouraging words whenever they need them the most. “

Post 2:

“Check this out! It’s a 53% discount, so it means you will get this for $19.99. It’s 24 post-it super sticky note pads (3 in. * 3 in.) that come with 70 sheets each. Even better they come in an assortment of neon colors. Here is the link https://amzn.to/3OFy4Qq.

Another fantastic deal would be these gel ink pens. You can get them using this link https://amzn.to/3OEyVAJ and save 29%. Ergonomically designed, they are no bleed, silent with a twin tip ball that gives more stability and a smooth feeling. This pack of 8 black 0.5mm ink gel pens comes to you for only $11.99.

Next, we have these calculators which come in a pack of 5. Available at https://amzn.to/3qCZO00, you can get these at a 42% discount for just $14.47. Solar and battery operated, they can function with both battery and solar energy. It is 8-digit LCD and comes with a 1-year warranty.

As we move on, everyone, you also need to check this out! This Rockland Double Handle Rolling Backpack, Black, 17-Inch comes at a 62% discount, meaning you will get it for only $30.60. In addition to having 4 wheels, please know the wheels are double wheels, there is a front pocket with an organizer and side mesh pockets. It comes in an assortment of colors, with some offering larger discounts. Here’s the link https://amzn.to/45BxD0u.

Similarly, this Vixic M960 sticker label maker machine with tape (black on white) is a cute, handy portable machine which comes with a 52% discount at present. Priced at just $14.29, it is ideal for school or your home office. It is a Rechargeble Type-C Smartphone label makers for school, Barcodes, QR codes, images, time name label, 110+difference fonts, symbols, frame, barcodes, QR codes, images and images. Here is the link https://amzn.to/3DZgJNv .”

You can benefit from every single one of them! Also, feel free to share the post with others so they can benefit from excellent deals and fantastic products.

In closing, happy shopping everyone!

Posted in Awesome Deals, Life, Love and Blessings, Shopping

Celebrating Awesome Deals!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Hey everyone, are you interested in some awesome deals? Surely you must be right!

These are some fantastic deals on Amazon which were shared on The Smart Express. The page is designed to help people enjoy the life they deserve by introducing them to awesome deals and products. It provides “fantastic deals that are designed to help you save money, wonderful products that you will thoroughly enjoy and interesting ways to save money.”

Here is a gallery view of some of the products with deals you can enjoy:

Here are three (3) posts where you can find these products. Here are the links:

Excellent Amazon shopping deals ladies!
Check out these awesome Amazon deals!
Don’t miss out on these fantastic deals!

You can follow the blog or click to follow The Smart Express on the social media platforms provided:

https://www.facebook.com/thesmartshoppersexpress

https://www.instagram.com/thesmartexpress/

https://www.tiktok.com/@rachaelathomasj

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm4fdLy4PsNFIcXfNVDzgSA

https://www.pinterest.com/thesmartexpressclick/

As always, I encourage you not to pass up on an opportunity to get fantastic products at excellent prices. I also encourage you to check out the posts, like the pages and follow the channels. Enjoy the journey and relish the opportunity to share them with others!

In closing, happy shopping everyone!

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

Celebrating Life’s Lessons through the eyes of Experience!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Hey everyone, yes, I am celebrating life’s lessons, and I am celebrating it through the eyes of experience. Certainly, life presents us with so many challenges that sometimes it comes one after the other, but one of the important things is keeping our faith and not giving up!

Easier said than done, right?

Don’t get me wrong, I am not here to tell you I know what you are going through, or to tell you to get over it or to tell you that your challenges are insignificant! That is not me, it was never me and would never be me, and I can assure you that. I believe in treating people as you would like to be treated and I always do my best to help others.

One thing that I always say and those who know me can attest to it is that no one can ever stand in your shoes and fully say they understand what you are going through because there is only one you and a pair of shoes doesn’t fit any two people the same way. The same adjectives may be used like ‘comfortable’ or ‘uncomfortable’ but that’s as close as it gets.

What I do however is share positivity as best as I can with the hope my messages can reach people the world over! This blog is one medium, then there are my social media pages and my most recent addition has been TikTok. Here is my TikTok link for those who want to visit it, https://www.tiktok.com/@rachaelathomasj . I also urge you to think about these five things!

  1. Not everyone will like you! In this life, people will be bothered by your success, your achievements, your disposition, your beliefs, your finances, your appearance and your happiness just to name a few.
  2. Not everyone lives up to their word! Often times we would realize this is more real than we expect.  Many times people show us what they want us to see! They are about appearances, using flowery language and what we would call, ‘mamagism’.  (Re: Dictionary.com to deceive or tease/ (ˈmɑːməˌɡaɪ) Caribbean / verb. to deceive or tease, either in jest or by deceitful flattery.) They say what they think you want to hear and think that’s okay rather than be honest.
  3. Some people don’t realize the more they lie, the more difficult it becomes to tell the truth. It becomes so bad in some cases, that even they begin to believe their own lies.
  4. Some people do not realize that karma is real. It’s not about wishing anyone bad but asking people to apply Sir Isaac Newton’s third law of motion, “To every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction,” to karma, with the full realization that there is a distinct parallel between the both.
  5. People love to create illusions. They don’t realize illusions can be shattered in a split second.

This being said, I sincerely hope these help you!

  1. You don’t need everyone to like you! Your circle may be small but those people you need in your life will be there.
  2. Always use what you know to guide you through your reasoning. Also, don’t change who you are unless it is to become a better version of yourself.
  3. Lies don’t survive. The truth eventually comes out. Just don’t let anyone insult your intelligence, take advantage of you or underestimate your worth.
  4. Always be good and do good! Don’t stoop to anyone’s level! Remember that God always takes care of His children!
  5. Remember sometimes when people choose to be ridiculous, know you just don’t have to respond. I am not saying that should not defend yourself or let others walk over you but sometimes silence pays and trust me, you would know when you should be silent and not expend your energy. Some individuals are so self-absorbed that they cannot see how they are destroying others or hurting them. Don’t subject yourself to insults and by all means if you can, use the scissors of life to cut toxic people out of your life.

Nuts.com

In closing, don’t give up! Always believe in yourself! Sometimes, it may not be easy but always know you are not alone!