Tag: Celebrating Life

Posted in Celebrating Existence, Celebrating Life

Forever in Our Hearts: Remembering My Dad

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

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

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

A Man of Integrity

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Life of Giving

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

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

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

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

The Little Things I Miss

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

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

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

His Legacy Lives On

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

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

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

Forever Remembered

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

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

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

Posted in Uncategorized

Celebrating the Power of 1 Moment of Clarity

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

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

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

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

And suddenly, the fog lifts.

That one moment of clarity might be:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted in 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 Celebrating Life

Celebrating the life of my aunt, Kaysika Devi Dookie!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj
Photo Credit: http://www.paintedteacup.com

Her smile, her voice and every memory I have with her is how I will remember my aunt. She was a sister, mother, wife, niece, cousin, sister-in-law, aunt, aunt-in-law, grandmother, mother-in-law and friend of many.

The late Kaysika Devi Dookie passed away on Tuesday 17 May 2022 and for those who knew her and the life she lived, she fought a brave fight. While for some Auntie is just a term of endearment, many can agree that those who had Aunties like her have special bonds with nieces and it doesn’t matter how often you see them but moments you share with them are moments that you hold dear.

A priceless smile of her when she was younger that says it all!

Kaysika Devi Dookie was the daughter of Celia Dookie and the late Ramlal Dookie. She was the common-law wife of Arnold Bahadoor. She was the mother of Rishi, Imran and Candice, mother-in-law of Stacy and Shizelle and the grandmother of Regan and Rayaz.

One of the last pics taken with her!

The late Kaysika Devi Dookie was the sister of Doris, Dora, Dolsie, Bena, Jaggernath and Rajdaye. She was the sister-in-law of my deceased Dad Ramchit, as well as the sister-in-law of Hussain, Rajesh, Rosemary, Sharaz, Winston, Sally and Reynold. She was my aunt and the aunt of my siblings, Ria and Ricky as well as the aunt of Sasha, Adesh, Sarah, Vincent, Leah, Premnauth, Susan, Joseph and Josiah. She was also the grandaunt of nine.

She was the niece of Betty, Vinda, Doodnath, Sita and the late Mynie, Sookraj and Bharose. She was also the relative of Leela Ramdeen, the Atal, Jairam, Dookie, Thomas, Shah, Bocas, Baksh, Ramdass and Deowajit families.

Photo credit: all-greatquotes.com

A lesson she taught us was that no one can stand in your shoes because no one can fill them like you and she did it in more ways than one.  Many would remember her as a friendly and hardworking cashier who worked for several years at Rajack’s Supermarket in Point Fortin and also at NH Chan and Sons, Carl Chang Supermarket and Tang Hap’s Supermarket, all that are well-known businesses in Point Fortin .

When you love what you do and you do what you love, the smile says it all!

What many may not know is that she was a New Year’s Day baby- her birthday was on January 1. As we are always told, once we are born, death is inevitable and many of us don’t know is that today we may talk to someone and tomorrow they may not be around.  In case you are wondering what Jan 1, 1964 was like, then you need to read this January 01, 1964, Wednesday, 5 Things You Didn’t Know on NewYear’s Day 1/1/1964 | TakeMeBack.to

What I don’t think she knew is that she shared a birthday with famous American actress Dedee Pfeiffer, Italian singer Francesca Alotta and a few others! Her reaction might have been, “Really?” and it would have been matched by a smile on her face.

It is one time when gone but not forgotten holds renewed meaning! Her smile, her calls, her messages, her loving nature and her humility will never be forgotten.

The message that comes with death is to remind us who are here how to live! Please take the time to listen to and look at this!

Posted in Being Prayerful, Celebrating Existence, Life, Remembering Loved Ones

Celebrating Angels

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

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!  

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

Celebrating the Journey!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

There are times when you think you know but then you realize that you don’t. You think you need it but then you realize you really want it. 


This being said in this post I am celebrating the journey! Where are you on yours? Have you taken the time to celebrate it? Have you stopped to think about it? If not, please know it’s time to! 


This is in every sense the myriad of life! This is something we all go through at one point or another. However, through it all it is imperative that we understand this is what life is- experience, highs, lows, ups, downs, and so many other forms of contrast other than what has been mentioned before.

Think about it- you are where you are because of where you have come from! You are where you are because you made a decision to start somewhere! You are where you are because you saw something and you put one foot in front the other and started a walk that led you to where you are today! 


So it’s not the road you wanted- not the straight path you envisioned. It’s not the road you imagined it would be. Instead there are bumps (unexpected surprises that are not so good), maybe some potholes (disappointments that cause you pain) and winding bends (things that show you the need for added caution). 


Stop and think or at least try to think! What is the last thing that made you smile? When was the last time you laughed? Where were you? What were you doing? What prompted it? Who was there? What made you so happy?


Hopefully this begins to get you thinking but don’t just think- feel and experience! Replace pain and sadness with something that is the opposite. Don’t ignore it and don’t forget it but don’t let it get the better of you. 


Find some positives that can replace the negatives!  Remind yourself of why you started and remind yourself of why you need to finish! Think of what you are sure about and focus on that to help you clear the path of uncertainty. 


It may sound tough to do but once you get started it will become easier. Remember too that procrastination may just be a hindrance. It always helps to be your best friend rather than your worst enemy. Similarly it always pays to be true to yourself! 


This is your journey and it needs to be celebrated. If you don’t celebrate it then it is highly unlikely that anyone will do it for you! Don’t wait until tomorrow because tomorrow we can agree is promised to no one!


It’s yours for the taking. The moment is yours for the making. Make the most of it! Live with no regrets because simply put, they are not worth it! Regrets are like weights that hold you back and weigh you down! What’s important is to live without regrets! Learn from mistakes. Try to right the wrongs! Treat people as you would like to be treated! Live each day like if it is your last.

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

Celebrating Life’s Lessons!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

In this post I am Celebrating Life’s Lessons! Regardless of how many times your brain may feel saturated, at some point something happens that shows you it isn’t but you have time to take in more. 

Quote by Rachael Ann Thomas-Jeremiah (Oct.4, 2020)


Every day is a new one and every day brings a new dawn. Let that be your hope that you are not alone! Your Master, whatever name He is called by, is always with you, guiding and protecting you. 

Every now and again it may happen and you might be flooded with something unexpected! Every now and again someone may show you something you lost sight of or something to snap you out of the illusion you have been living in. Many may think they have the right to judge but in truth and in fact they don’t. That is a fact that remains whether people want to hear it or not. 


Friendship and love should never be mixed with envy. Friendship and love should never be synonymous with being selfish. Friendship and love should never be negative. Friendship and love should never be toxic.


Always give yourself the best chance possible! Always learn not to expect anything from anyone but always focus on being you and focus on being the best you that there is! 
I made a decision a long time ago that giving up or quitting is not an option at least not for me. Those who know me would know why! Those who don’t can question it but they may never understand why. 


Like you I have had my fair share of experiences and I continue to have them day after day. Don’t let life break you and don’t let it trick you into living an illusion or getting entangled in one! Don’t let circumstances get the better of you! 


Being in pain doesn’t mean you are justified in causing someone else pain. Nothing justifies being jealous of someone so don’t let anyone make you feel guilty for what you have or what you deserve. 

Think of every cold shoulder you got, every harsh word you have received, every tear you shed and every ounce of pain you experienced! Thank God you did not let it define you! Thank God you are where you are and Thank God you are existing! 


After you do this I urge you to take the time to do the following:
1. Celebrate every challenge you have overcome!

2. Celebrate every time you have turned a frown upside down.

 3. Celebrate every negative you have walked away from.

4. Celebrate every negative you have turned into a positive. 

5. Celebrate every toxic situation you have walked away from. 

6. Celebrate the fact that you have removed every toxic person who is no longer in your life or you are in the process of doing exactly that. 

7. Celebrate every opportunity you have grabbed and made the most out of. 

8. Celebrate every genuine person who has become a part of your life. 

9. Celebrate every time you have done something for you.

10. Celebrate your growth.

11. Celebrate your strength! 

12. As you focus on your healing celebrate how far you have come on your journey.

13. Celebrate the success and happiness of others.

14. Celebrate every day you survived. 

15. Celebrate every today and every tomorrow you are yet to see.