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?
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.
On TikTok I have been sharing positive messages via rachaelathomasj and I have generally been consistent.
My YouTube channel continues to grow.
Additions to my Time to Travel to Trinidad and Tobago were made.
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.
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!
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!
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.
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!
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!”
Indeed, you read the title correctly and you may be wondering how these two come together, but as you go through this post, it will all make perfect sense!
For those who could remember, a couple years ago I would create my own motivational quotes and sure enough they would be a reflection of my own writing. Now, one of the things people either underestimate or remain ignorant of is the power of their words. Words can make you or break you, that is if you let them. If they keep you down, which might probably be the case, it would not be forever. Remember, when you hit rock bottom, the only place after is to go up!
Trust me when I say, everything I do is done with meaning, sincerity, love and a genuine desire to help others. It is my hope that you can be motivated to celebrate opportunity and positivity in the face of adversity.
Yes, I have been aiming for consistency in posting my messages and letting them be a true expression of my thoughts and feelings as I share them with the world and direct them to all who receive them. In case you are wondering what exactly I am referring to, you can check:
This blog was recently viewed in another new country so now in addition to my home country of Trinidad and Tobago it has been viewed in 138 other countries plus has been viewed over 20.5k times and I also have over 250 followers here. https://rachaelathomasj.com/ Yes, it’s in every continent and that’s at least 70% of all the countries in the world!
Time to Travel to Trinidad and Tobago (my latest book) has been released as a Paperback and is due to be released as an eBook in the imminent future. This book is filled with so much information about Trinidad and Tobago, and yes, it is 275 pages long. Some of the things to look out for are lots of photos (yes, I finally got the perfect way to use so many of the pics I have been taking over the years and I also got awesome pics from family members, close friends and some interesting people who provided a wealth of information for me to create a wonderful representation of our twin-island paradise.
I have invested time in updating my LinkedIn profile as well.
Google has reliably informed me that my reviews have received over 8,000 views at present.
I have also been practicing better self-care and for more reasons than one, all of which are good. As always, I believe in the golden rule, ‘Treat others as you would like to be treated.’
As I often say, I am here to help others, one country at a time and I do it in my own way. For me, it is all about helping others and spreading positivity. It is about good vibes and treating others as you would like to be treated. It is about keeping your focus and yes, like everyone else, just like everyone I have my tough days. As such, some days it takes longer to get back up, but I do not quit or do anything to hurt anyone. Simply put, that is not me. I urge you not to quit as well or do anything to hurt anyone. Always be true to yourself!
At the end of the day, let us celebrate where we have come from and where we are! Let us celebrate our journey and keep our focus! Let us take it bit by bit and day by day! Let us count our blessings, our little victories and each challenge we overcome! Let us rise in the face of adversity! Together we can!
World Wildlife Day is dedicated to celebrating the world’s wild plants and animals, the contribution they make to our lives and to our planet. In this post, I am celebrating World Wildlife Day with the rest of the world by celebrating our local wildlife and sharing some videos that help to highlight some of the excellent work being done in Trinidad and Tobago.
When we think of local wildlife here in Trinidad and Tobago, lots of local animals come to mind. One of these animals is the macaw. Here is a video from the Pointe-a-Pierre Wildfowl Trust which you can thoroughly enjoy and learn something from.
In case you are wondering about the Pointe-a-Pierre Wild Fowl Trust, certainly this virtual tour would allow you to see just how precious this place is and how remarkable the work being done here is! In addition to being about conservation, the work being done here also focuses on so much more, both for our flora and fauna.
I have also had the opportunity to learn more about our local wildlife through the work being done at Corbin’s Local Wildlife in Tobago. This tourism story which I am highlighting below speaks volumes and I am sure many parts of it will resonate with you. It is a tourism story shared by Mr. Roy Corbin, the owner of Corbin’s Local Wildlife. All of the animals highlighted here are local and their existence is also critical in managing our local wildlife.
Surely, we can agree that this is very insightful and if we have an opportunity to make a difference, we should. A couple days ago I had the opportunity to look at their virtual tour and I look forward to an opportunity to visit in person. For those who would like to view it, please click on this link:
I am intrigued by the story of our leatherback turtles. Protecting these leatherback turtles is increasingly important and this video is one that you should surely take the time to look at. In addition to Grande Riviere, there is also Matura and some places in Tobago. Let’s all make a conscious effort to save our wildlife and understand that we can make a difference!
Happy World Wildlife Day 2023 everyone!
Together let’s make a difference! Let’s do what we can to save the wildlife of our beautiful country.
Do you want to teach online? Do you also want to enhance your chances so that you can teach, travel and settle anywhere in the world? Then you need to read this post!
My review!
In case you are wondering if you read the title correctly, yes you did! So if you are looking for recognized school to do your TEFL Training with, this is certainly it! Premier TEFL is certainly it!
Photo Credit: Premier TEFL This is exactly what I needed in this pandemic- FULLY ONLINE!!!
This is because a couple months ago I began my journey with this institution and trust me when I say that I have not been disappointed. Having had the choice of quite a lot of institutions I did my research well and thankfully, good research has paid off.
My course was fully online, it was easy to access my study material and chart my progress every step of the way. What made it easier is that even though I had a very busy schedule I was able to study at my pace and ask for more time to complete my studies in case I needed to.
While I know not everyone’s experience will be the same, I am quite happy to share my experience! My advice to you would be to use this link https://premiertefl.com?ptaff=900 and check out their courses for yourself as you will realize there are many options to choose from. What becomes vitally important is knowing how recognized your qualification is and ensuring that you give your best.
Photo credit: Premier TEFL Here is a review someone else shared about Premier TEFL!
What’s even better is that thanks to Premier TEFL I am a trained and TEFL Instructor who is happily working my way through other courses at Premier TEFL.
As I do this I can easily reach out to the support team and I am always being informed to the best places to apply for TEFL jobs. Trust me, it is a journey you will enjoy so get ready to ‘wet your feet’ and begin a new adventure, for you as well as your family!
Photo Credit: Premier TEFL This is true on so many levels!
2021! What a year! If you are reading this thank God because it means you are alive! It means you survived to see another day and the start of another year!
It may not have been the easiest year but we pulled through- every single one of us! We can all agree that this was not an easy year and it was challenging in more ways than one. As we begin 2022, let’s begin by giving gratitude for ALL blessings. Also take the time to celebrate, reflect and rejuvenate because we need to keep going and we need to take positive energy with us. Here are some helpful pointers!
Practice self-care.
Decide not to give attention to anyone that caused you pain and do not let their negative energy dominate your thoughts.
Remember to keep living- enjoy life!
Find a positive in every negative.
Move forward- don’t look back.
Keep your resolve!
Use the scissors of life and cut out everthing you don’t need.
Enjoy your journey!
Give gratitude every single day!
Be your best friend- not your worst enemy!
In case you are wondering what musical treat awaits you today then take the time to listen to this!
As you go through the year, take it one day at a time! Also, please remember to do your best to stay safe!
Today a nation cries. Today a country is brought to its knees. Today hearts were broken into pieces throughout the island. Today tears were shed by many and pain, anguish and anger were evident everywhere.
February 4, 2021- the day the body of Andrea Amy Bharatt was found in the Heights of Aripo, her body thrown over a precipice. This is a day many would not forget. Prayers were being said for the young law clerk to return home safely since she went missing on the evening of Friday 29 January, 2021. Hundreds turned out for a vigil only the evening before while several hunters and trackers had joined the police in the days she went missing- many hoping they would find her alive.
Andrea Bharatt
The life of a family was turned upside down as this young woman who had done everything she was told to do was subjected to a horrific end. She travelled with a friend in daylight shortly after finishing work in what appeared to be a registered taxi. However, she was lured into a trap many others would not have expected as the license plate was fake. God only knows how her father is coping. To think that she left home and could not return as she left, to think that they could not say goodbye or hug each as they would is the unfortunate reality that her murder has brought.
To think of her last moments is painful and heartbreaking. To think of the scant disregard and respect for her body as she was assaulted and her body thrown over a precipice is beyond disturbing.
A YouTube video Andrea Bharatt made during her studies
Described as an ‘angel’, Andrea was also described as a soft-spoken, pleasant and very hard working young lady who worked towards her dreams and she greeted everyone she met with a smile. She was one who left many with great memories and there has been an outpouring of love and concern since the day she went missing.
Photo Credit: Pinterest(Susan Noyes Anderson)
To have raised her alone for the last eight years following the passing of his wife, for her to grow up to be the young woman she was, it means Andrea’s father did an incredible job. It also means the bond they shared would have been a very close one. To have her snatched from him like this and to lose her like this is inconsolable. More so it means more hearts are continuing to break as many think of the irreparable damage done to him and the constant pain and anguish he is facing.
Andrea’s story is one of the many that has brought pain to many in our twin island Republic. This is not the ‘sweet T&T’ Natasha Wilson described years ago. The stories of the tragic end Andrea Bharatt, Ashanti Riley, Krysta Lackpatsingh, Joanna Díaz Sánchez, Rachel Logan, Cindy Joseph, Hope Arismandez, Emily Annamunthodo, Sean Luke, Jezelle Phillip, Ellena Dial and so many others faced have showed the harsh reality of the times we are living in. We pray for each of their souls. We pray for each of their families.
Ashanti Riley
Ashanti as many would remember left home to attend her grandmother’s birthday party. She was on her way to meet her boyfriend and other family members and together they would go to her grandmother’s home but Ashanti never arrived. Like Andrea, she was a beautiful young woman with a beautiful soul. She too was described as a loving young lady who was hard working and she too had a horrific end. She brought joy and laughter to many.
Ashanti had spent her Sunday morning at home with her Mom and when she left little did anyone think that she would never return. Ashanti disappeared on the 29th of November and her corpse was found on Dec 4th; Andrea disappeared on January 29th and her corpse was found on February 4th. Her murder sparked outrage and the ordeal she faced in her final hours was surely inflicted by persons with no compassion, no mercy and no respect.
Let us go back to a most tragic day in 2004! When Krysta Lackpatsingh’s life was taken in 2004, it was on a day when she had returned home early to type up a report on the family’s computer because a computer had not yet been installed at work. Krysta, a Probation Officer attached to the Point Fortin Magistrates Court was found by her parents, Jade and Steve Lackpatsingh in a pool of blood. She had been stabbed at least 18 times. Always pleasant, she loved helping others and she loved life. She was beautiful inside and out. Her laughter could fill a room and she had a special ability to soothe those around her.
What wrong did Krysta do? She came home early to complete her work because it could not be done at her place of work and instead had her life taken in a most tragic way, heartlessly and brutally. Krysta’s death shocked the entire Cedros community.
Krysta Lackpatsingh
The torture Andrea, Ashanti, Krysta and each of the other victims endured is unthinkable. So too is the torture their families have endured and continue to endure. When several of these victims did the right thing how can we say they did wrong? Their lives were ended by heartless, cold, unfeeling monsters that are roaming our land. Who are they to take lives they did not give life? Yes, once there is birth, death is inevitable but when that time comes is not to be determined by man.
We need to wake up and look out for each other. We need to be vigilant and careful. We need to take measures for good protection and we need to keep praying. We need to be thankful for our loved ones and for our time with them.
Yes, many of us did not know any of these victims, but it has not stopped us from caring and praying. Do not let their stories be stories which will be forgotten. Do not let their lives be a distant memory in time to come. Do not forget their families. Do what you can to offer them comfort and prayer. In essence, keep applying the golden rule- Treat others the way you want to be treated.
The lives of each of these victims matter! Let us remember what they taught us, how they have inspired many and what they have showed us. The lives of their families matter too! This is not about you or me but it is about every single one of us!
We celebrate each of these Angels! Together they have shown us how inner beauty radiates outward! Together they have shown us how rising in the midst of adversity is imperative! Together they have shown us that the purity of their hearts is something they were blessed with! They were gone too soon but they will never be forgotten!
Celebrating Existence 