Posted in Celebrating Existence, Celebrating Life, Life, Love and Blessings, Spiritual Reflections

Celebrating 2025: Carpe Diem, Que Sera Sera, Semper Fi

2025 was not a year I simply passed through—it was a year that refined me. A year of lessons (some very harsh ones), new beginnings, and quiet awakenings that required continued honesty, courage, and faith. It challenged my resilience and reshaped my perspective, reminding me that growth is rarely loud—but always intentional.

This was the year I truly learned the power of carpe diem—seizing the moment by showing up. Not perfectly. Not fearlessly. But consistently. I learned that progress is built in the daily effort, the small decisions, and the willingness to keep going even when motivation fades. Consistency matters, and 2025 proved that steady steps often carry more power than dramatic moves.

At the same time, I embraced the wisdom of que sera sera—understanding that not everything is mine to control. I learned to release expectations and trust the unfolding. There is peace in acceptance, and strength in knowing when to let go and when to stand firm.

One of the most transformative lessons of the year was learning to see things for what they are—not what I hoped they would be, not what I tried to make them, but what they truly were. That clarity brought freedom. It allowed me to stop over-explaining, stop forcing alignment, and start responding with wisdom instead of emotion.

Moving forward required deep faith—faith in the process, faith in divine timing, and faith in myself. It required resilience of the quiet kind—the kind that wakes up every day, shows up again, and chooses growth even when the road feels heavy.

2025 demanded bold decisions. Decisions that were not always understood, but were necessary. I chose boundaries over burnout, truth over comfort, and peace over people-pleasing. In doing so, I learned what semper fi truly means—being faithful to my values, loyal to my purpose, and committed to the person I am becoming.

This was also the year I fully embraced investing in me. My healing. My growth. My future. Self-investment became an act of strength, not guilt. And through it all, I rose—again and again—like the phoenix, not untouched by the fire, but strengthened by it.

As I celebrate 2025, I do so with gratitude—not because it was easy, but because it was necessary. It taught me that showing up consistently changes everything, clarity brings peace, and faith carries you further than fear ever could.

I remain deeply grateful for the love, prayers, and unwavering support of my family and friends, for my children who inspire me daily to be strong and intentional, and for the mentors and quiet supporters who believed in me—sometimes even before I fully believed in myself. Their faith, encouragement, and presence, whether spoken or silent, reminded me that I was never walking this journey alone. In moments of doubt and rebuilding, their trust in me became strength, their prayers became covering, and their support became the fuel that helped me keep showing up, stay faithful, and continue moving forward with clarity and courage.

I step forward grounded, resilient, and clear—guided by the principles that carried me through:

Carpe Diem.
Que Sera Sera.
Semper Fi.

Here’s to continuing the journey—steady, faithful, and always celebrating existence

Posted in Celebrating Existence, Celebrating Life

Celebrating the Life of My Grandmother

As they say, the loss of a loved one is a a void that cannot be filled and the memories we have are our comfort. My grandma was not just my grandma but she was special. Growing up I didn’t know my Dad’s mom because she passed away before my parents got married. She was my Mom’s mom Grand-mom and she wore many hats.

To lose a grandmother is to lose an anchor in the family — the keeper of traditions, the storyteller of generations, the one whose love reached beyond time. Her absence leaves an empty chair, but her presence lingers in every word she shared, every prayer she once whispered. Though her hands have rested, her legacy continues — in the lives she shaped, in the love she sowed, and in the strength she passed down.

My grandmom, the late Jassodra Dookie was known by many as Celia or Lady Celia. Many know her as the lady who sold plantain in the Point Fortin Market for many years. Many in the village would remember the early mornings when she and my Grandfather would toil in their garden and they also did that for many years. That in summary captures their hardworking nature and as they got older, that became something they both had to ease up doing. They were a team and they worked together.

She was a very giving person and this is one of the many things she will be remembered for. Her life was filled with giving and giving freely. So, let me ask: Is there a story in a name? “Jassodra”

Putting together pieces, one could infer that:

“Jassodra” might be a variant or relative of Jasoda/Yashoda.

If so, it might carry similar resonances: mother-figure, someone with goodness or kindness.

For as far back as I could remember, as mentioned my Grandma was a very hardworking woman. This hard work was a rhythm she lived by through her entire life and she was very independent in that she did what she needed to. Whether in her home or in her garden, or in the market, she poured herself fully into every task. Her life was filled with giving and giving freely. More so, when you caught her laughter or her smile, know it was one to treasure.

Her love was not quiet—it was felt in the way she welcomed people and she loved giving advice because this was her very nature. She was a daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, niece, cousin and friend of many. 

While we as her grandkids have lost a grandmother, her sisters have lost their eldest sister, my Mom and her siblings have lost their Mom, our kids have lost their great- grandmom, her nieces and nephews have lost an aunt, and yes, I could go on, but I am saying all of this to stress on the fact, that she will not be forgotten. Memories of her will bring comfort to those taking the lessons her life taught us and putting them to good use.

She loved to read and at times was known for a joke or two. Those who knew her knew she always bought newspapers and when she didn’t, would still get the newspapers to read. She showed us that strength is found not in the size of what you have, but in the care and effort you put into what you do.

Perhaps yes, her greatest gift was generosity. My grandmother gave freely and she never hesitated to share whatever she had, no matter how big or small.

Today, we celebrate her life not only with memories but with the lessons she leaves behind.

My grandmother may no longer be with us in person, but her spirit lives in our acts of love, every hard-earned success, every act of kindness we extend to others. Her life was a blessing, and her memory is a legacy we carry forward with gratitude.

Jassodra Dookie, also known as Celia, will be lovingly remembered as:

Daughter of: Puloo & Kola Ramlakhan (both deceased)

Wife of: Ramlal Dookie (deceased)

Mother of: Doris, Dora, Dolsie, Bena, Jaggernauth, Rajdaye & Kaysika Devi (deceased)

Sister of: Betty, Sita, Vinda, Rookmin (deceased), Sookraj (deceased), Doodnath (deceased) & Bharose (deceased)

Grandmother of: Rachael Ann, Ria, Ricky, Sasha, Adesh, Rishi, Imran, Candice, Sarah Lynn, Vincent, Leah, Premnauth, Susan, Joseph & Josiah

Great Grandmother of: Richie Lee, Kaytlyn, Yadu Datta, Regan, Rayaz, Renissa, Ezra, Marissa, Amelia, Alissa, Sofia, Stephon, Emma, Levi, Enoch, Lilly Ann & Lucas

Granddaughter of: Sonia & Ramnauth Sadoo

Aunt of: Merlin, Anjie, Anita, Sharda, Ria, Pradeep, Manoj, Michael, Nina, Stephen, Vishal, Roopa, Deepa, Narvin, Nellie, Indar & many others

Cousin of: Rose, Baby, Jai, Deokie, Sai, Vihar & many others

Niece of: Uncle Premchand Mahabirsingh

Daughter-in-law of: Gobin Dookie

Mother-in-law of: Winston, Rajesh, Hosein, Rosemarie, Sharaz & Ramjit (deceased)

Sister-in-law of: Ram & Ashford

Relative of: the Dookie’s, Atal’s & many others

Friend of: Tanty Golly, Doolin & many others

The passing of a loved one reminds us of life’s preciousness. It teaches us to cherish every moment, to express love and gratitude without delay, and to forgive where we can. Life is fleeting, and in its impermanence, we learn to focus on what truly matters—relationships, kindness, and leaving a positive mark on the world. Though loss brings pain, it also brings clarity: to live with purpose, to embrace the small joys, and to treasure the memories that keep those we love alive in our hearts.

Some meaningful lessons include:

  1. Value Time: Life is short, so spend time on what truly matters—family, friends, passions, and experiences.
  2. Express Love and Gratitude: Don’t wait to say “I love you” or “thank you.” People may not always be around.
  3. Live with Purpose: Death reminds us to live intentionally and make a positive impact while we can.
  4. Embrace Forgiveness: Holding grudges wastes precious energy; life is too short to carry anger.
  5. Appreciate the Small Things: Everyday moments—laughter, nature, a kind word—gain significance when we reflect on life’s fragility.
  6. Acceptance of Impermanence: Life is fleeting; learning to accept change and loss brings peace.
  7. Leave a Legacy: Our actions, love, and memories live on in others—focus on what you want to be remembered for.
  8. Prioritize Health and Well-being: Life’s unpredictability teaches us to care for ourselves and others.
Posted in Celebrating Existence, Celebrating Life

Forever in Our Hearts: Remembering My Dad

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:

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

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

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

When Helping Hurts: Staying True to Yourself Despite Misunderstandings

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 🌟

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 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

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, Celebrating Life, Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji

Celebrating a Living Light: His Holiness Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji

Jaya Guru Datta!

In a world filled with noise, confusion, and change, there are rare souls who radiate unwavering peace and divine purpose. His Holiness Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji is one such living light—a beacon of love, wisdom, and healing whose presence has touched countless lives across the globe. This year, Pujya Sri Appaji celebrates 83 years. He is the epitome of Truth, Knowledge, and Bliss.

Son of Sri Narahari Teertha Swami and Jayalakshmi Maata, Pujya Appaji was born in 1942 in Andhra Pradesh, India, at the sacred confluence of three rivers – the Arkavati River, the Kaveri River and the Guptagaamini River. Pujya Appaji has dedicated His life to uplifting humanity through the ancient yet timeless path of Dharma, Bhakti, and Seva. A spiritual master, yogi, musician, and compassionate healer, His Holiness is the revered founder of Avadhoota Datta Peetham in Mysore, a vibrant spiritual and cultural center that offers spiritual guidance, Vedic knowledge, and charitable services to all, regardless of religion or background.

In creating a greeting I was looking for a particular photo of Pujya Appaji (one I had not used before) and I kid you not when I say that a lot of photos with Pujya Appaji show His Holiness either with a microphone in front of Him, or Him doing pooja or something of the sort and it made me smile. Why? It was this thought in my mind, ‘Rachael, your Appaji is always doing something. He is selfless and it is always for the good of mankind.’ 83 years is a milestone and 83 also has other significance for me, and will there are so many things I can share that would show why I don’t question His Holiness, I will say this. My understanding of who Pujya Appaji is began long before I physically met Him. It began with a fascination with His name and saying it over and over because in addition to being was very young at the time, I liked the way His name sounds.

I have experienced His Grace and His compassion in so many ways. I always feel His presence, His energy and His Love. This is why I always say, “Thank you Appaji for all that You do and continue to do. Please accept my humble Prostations at Your Lotus Feet.”

The Power of Divine Music

One of Pujya Appaji’s most extraordinary gifts is His healing music. Through His soul-stirring Raga Sagara concerts, He brings together music and meditation, soothing the mind and awakening the soul. His Holiness has even been recognized by Guinness World Records for His musical achievements, yet His humble mission remains the same—to heal, inspire, and reconnect humanity with the Divine through sound.

Pujya Appaji is both timeless and relevant. While rooted in the deep wisdom of the ancient rishis, He speaks to the modern seeker with clarity and compassion. Whether through discourses, bhajans, or silent blessings, He opens the door for each soul to walk its own unique path toward peace and self-realization.

He teaches not only through words, but through His actions—feeding the hungry, healing the sick, protecting nature, and uplifting the downtrodden. His global humanitarian work reflects a deep understanding that true spirituality is lived through service, love, and unity.

To be in Pujya Appaji presence—even through a video, bhajan, or written word—is to feel a rare silence, a rare joy. Devotees describe a sense of calm, direction, and a reminder that no matter how dark life seems, there is always divine light waiting within.

He reminds us that God is not distant, but near. That our breath, our heartbeats, our very existence is sacred. And that by living with truth, humility, and devotion, we can transform our lives and uplift others.

As we celebrate the life and mission of Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, let us take a moment to reflect on the grace He brings into this world. May we honor His teachings not just in word, but in practice—by being kind, by being present, and by walking the path of love.

Sri Guru Datta!

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

Rising in the Face of Adversity: When the Smiles Are Fake and the Words Are Hollow

Life has a way of testing us when we least expect it. Sometimes it’s through quiet struggles—stress that no one sees, battles we fight in silence, or moments when everything feels just a little too heavy to carry alone. And in those times, what makes it harder is not just the adversity itself—but the smiles that don’t reach the eyes and the words that lack sincerity.

We live in a world that often tells us to “stay strong” without truly understanding what we’re going through. Some say, “I’m here for you,” but disappear when you need them the most. Some compliment us but secretly compete. They smile at us, but whisper behind our backs. And while it’s easy to become jaded, bitter, or withdrawn—there is something powerful about choosing to rise anyway.

Strength Isn’t Always Loud

True strength doesn’t always roar. Sometimes, it’s just getting out of bed in the morning. Showing up to work or parenting when your heart is heavy. Smiling back—even when you know the smile isn’t real—because you refuse to let the world change your softness.

Rising in the face of adversity means choosing authenticity in a sea of pretense. It means being kind even when kindness is not returned. It means forgiving—not because they deserve it—but because you deserve peace.

Fake Smiles Don’t Define You

You’ll meet people who pretend to care. Who say one thing and do another. Who clap when you win but secretly hope you lose. But their smiles don’t define your worth, and their words don’t reflect your truth.

Let their insincerity be a reminder of what you never want to become. Let it fuel your growth, not your grudges. Because rising doesn’t mean pretending everything is fine—it means facing what’s not, and growing anyway.

Your Truth is Your Power

You don’t need everyone to understand your journey. You just need to stay true to your path. Real light doesn’t need validation to shine. Keep doing your best. Keep showing up with heart. Keep speaking truth, even if your voice trembles.

And if you’re walking through pain right now—take heart. You are not weak. You are rising. Even when no one claps. Even when the spotlight is on someone else. Even when it’s quiet.

Keep Rising

Adversity will come. So will fake friends, shallow conversations, and fleeting applause. But so will your strength. So will grace. So will clarity. And the more you rise, the more you’ll recognize who’s truly with you—and who only showed up for the highlight reel.

Keep rising. Not because it’s easy. But because you were never meant to stay low.