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 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 Amazon shopping, Awesome Deals, Back to school deals, Back to school deals, Celebrating Existence, Great deals, Office Supplies

Celebrating 15 Months and 178 Lists on Benable: My Why, My What, My How!

Fifteen months ago, I followed a gentle nudge — to share the things I genuinely love and use, not just with my close circle, but with the world. What began as a single list on Benable has now grown into an incredible library of 178 lists (and counting), each created with intention, honesty, and heart.

My Why: Serving Through Sharing

At the center of it all is a genuine desire to help others. I believe in lifting others up — whether it’s by recommending stuff I myself would use, offering inspiration through faith-based encouragement, or making someone’s day easier with travel ideas.

Sometimes people just need a little direction in a world full of choices. I share not to sell — but to serve. My lists are born out of real experiences, real needs, and real questions people ask every day.

My What: A Little Bit of Everything — With Love

My Benable space is filled with collections that meet people where they are. From self-care and wellness tools for moms and creatives, to smart toys for kids that make learning fun, every list solves a problem or adds joy.

If you’re preparing for a new school term, you’ll love my back-to-school picks. Need gift inspiration? I’ve got curated options for family gift ideas, gifts for teachers, and even book lover gifts.

For those looking for trendy fashion or those getting married, I have got you covered. If you are struggling with fibromyalgia or you have scoliosis, I have you covered. If your gluten intolerant or dealing with being lactose intolerant, I have you covered.

And if you’re looking for motivation or daily inspiration, my inspirational books list and motivational wall art bring encouragement into your space.

My How: Living What I List

I create each list with purpose. Everything I recommend is either something I personally use, have deeply researched, or trust enough to share with my own family. My process is simple — observe, experience, curate. I think of the busy parent looking to simplify mornings, the writer trying to stay organized, or even the artist or the student needing back to school essentials.

I also listen. Many of my lists are built from real conversations — like helping a friend plan a find food they can enjoy, or services they can benefit from, or compiling intriguing book titles based on what piques my interest.

And because I believe in living consciously, I’ve also created lists to support my diet and lists for eco-friendly habits and choices.

My Joy: Building a Trusted Space

The greatest joy in this journey is knowing that my recommendations have made a difference in someone’s life. Maybe it was a cozy home find that brought peace, or online courses that can help individuals realize their dreams. Even the smallest list, like my home and kitchen essentials, has the power to impact someone’s daily routine.

This platform has also allowed me to celebrate the little wins — like toys and book resources for little ones, feel-good product finds, or games that families can enjoy together or as simple as clothing for all family members.

Here are just a few of the 178+ lists I’ve created so far:

And that’s just a sample! You can explore all my lists anytime at benable.com/rachaelathomasj

What’s Next: More Purpose, More People, More Possibilities

This journey is only beginning. As I reflect on these past 15 months, I’m reminded that we all have something to share — something that can help someone else. Through Benable, I’ve been blessed with the chance to give back in a meaningful way, one list at a time.

Thank you to everyone who has browsed, clicked, shopped, or shared. You are part of this beautiful story. If you haven’t yet, I invite you to explore all my lists here — and maybe you’ll find a little magic too.

Here’s to helping, growing, and glowing — together. If you would like to join Benable please use this link https://benable.com/i/SW8FH. Benable allows you to share favorite things, and choose from 40,000 brands soskip the waitlist with my link.

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

Celebrating Time: Happy New Year 2025!

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

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

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

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

What are some of my wins?

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

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

Posted in Benable, Life, Love and Blessings

Celebrating excellent deals and products!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted in Love You Daddy, Remembering Loved Ones

Celebrating my Dad on Father’s Day!

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

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 Blessings from Appaji, Life, Love and Blessings

Celebrating Existence: the 2023 chapter!

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, Happiness, Life, Love and Blessings, Uncategorized

Announcing my Newsletter: Celebrating Existence!

Hi

Celebrating Life-Surviving Depression

Are you in need of interesting content?

Are you in need of reminders about why you should be celebrating existence?

Are you in search of positivity?

Are you in search of inspiration?

Are you in search of an avenue through which you can find out newsworthy information on several areas of interest?

Are you in search of a way to spread positivity?

Then you need to subscribe to my newsletter-Celebrating Existence!

It’s been in the making for so long and today I take this opportunity to invite you to subscribe to my Newsletter!

All you need to do is to click on this link:

http://eepurl.com/g_UbNj

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