Tag: Life

Posted in Celebrating Existence, Celebrating Life, International Women's Day, international womens day 2026, Life, Love and Blessings

Celebrating International Women’s Day 2026

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Every year, International Women’s Day gives us a moment to pause and reflect. It is more than a date on the calendar or a collection of social media posts. It is a reminder of the strength, resilience, wisdom, and determination that women carry every single day.

When I think about what this day represents, I am reminded that the story of women has always been one of perseverance. Women have always found ways to build, nurture, guide, and lead — often quietly and without seeking recognition.

Their impact, however, is undeniable.

Women hold families together. They shape communities. They nurture dreams, encourage growth, and often stand as pillars of strength for those around them. In addition to this while many of these contributions may not always be celebrated publicly, their influence runs deep.

International Women’s Day gives us the opportunity to acknowledge those contributions — both the visible and the unseen.

For me, this day also holds a very personal meaning because it reminds me of the women in my own life.

Most especially, my mother.

A mother’s influence is something that shapes you long before you truly understand it. Through her guidance, her sacrifices, and the example she sets, she teaches lessons that quietly become part of who you are. Strength, resilience, patience, faith, compassion — many of these qualities are first learned by watching the women who raise us. My mother has been one of those steady forces — someone whose presence, wisdom, and support has played a significant role in my life and throughout my life to date.

I am deeply grateful for the women in my family and extended family who, across generations, have helped shape the story of who we are. Each of them carries a quiet and unique strength — nurturing their families, supporting one another through life’s challenges, and celebrating each other’s victories along the way. Their love, resilience, and care have created a legacy that continues to guide and inspire. Today, I celebrate them, and I celebrate every woman this message reaches, as well as all the women I am blessed to have in my life — family and otherwise, both young and not so young — whose presence, wisdom, and friendship make life richer in so many ways.

Together you remind me that strength does not always appear loudly. Often it appears in quiet perseverance — in the daily commitment to care, to guide, to encourage, and to keep going even when life demands much from them.

So today, I celebrate you.

I celebrate my mother.
I celebrate the mothers in my family.
And I celebrate the countless women everywhere whose love, wisdom, and determination continue to shape the lives around them.

International Women’s Day is also a moment to reflect on the journey of women as a whole — how far we have come and the possibilities that still lie ahead.

Because progress does not happen by accident.

The opportunities many women experience today exist because generations before us were brave enough to speak up, stand firm, and create change. Their courage opened doors that once seemed firmly closed.

And today, women continue to walk through those doors as leaders, entrepreneurs, educators, innovators, and changemakers in every field imaginable.

But even as we celebrate progress, there are a few gentle reminders that women everywhere should carry with them.

Ten Things Women Should Always Remember

1. Your voice matters.
Never underestimate the power of your thoughts, ideas, and perspective.

2. Your strength is not always loud.
Sometimes true strength shows up quietly in resilience and persistence.

3. You do not have to do everything alone.
There is strength in community and support.

4. Your journey does not have to look like anyone else’s.
Comparison often steals the joy of your own path.

5. Your growth deserves recognition.
Celebrate the progress you have made, even if it feels small.

6. Your wellbeing matters.
Taking care of yourself is not selfish; it is necessary.

7. Challenges do not define your worth.
They are simply part of the story that helps shape your strength.

8. You are allowed to evolve.
Who you are today does not have to be who you were yesterday.

9. Supporting other women creates powerful change.
When women uplift one another, incredible things happen.

10. Your presence in this world matters.
Never doubt the value you bring to the lives around you.

International Women’s Day is ultimately about celebration, reflection, and encouragement.

It reminds us to appreciate the women who came before us, to support the women walking beside us, and to inspire the women who will come after us.

So today, I celebrate women everywhere — their courage, their wisdom, their kindness, and their unwavering determination to keep moving forward.

And most importantly, I celebrate the women who helped shape my own life.

My mother.
The mothers in my family.
And the countless women whose influence continues to ripple through the world in ways both big and small.

Because when women grow, families grow.
When women lead, communities grow stronger.
And when women support one another, the future becomes even brighter. 🌿

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

Celebrating your journey, even when your heart needs a moment

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Life has a quiet way of teaching us lessons we didn’t expect to learn, even when we don’t think or realize we need it or we are up to it.

Sometimes everything feels like it is moving along just fine. You are making plans, setting goals, doing what you need to do, and finding your rhythm. Then something shifts. A situation changes. A door closes. Someone you thought would always be there is suddenly not. Or maybe nothing dramatic even happens — things simply begin to feel a little different, a little heavier, a little uncertain.

And in those moments, one gentle truth often reveals itself: you need to keep moving forward.

Not in a rushed or forceful way. Not in the sense that you must pretend everything is fine when it isn’t. But in the quiet understanding that life continues, and so must you.

There will be seasons where things do not go the way you hoped. Moments where you sit with your thoughts a little longer than usual, trying to understand what changed or why something unfolded the way it did. It is human to reflect, to replay conversations, to wonder if things might have been different under other circumstances.

And that reflection is not wrong.

In fact, allowing yourself to feel what you feel is one of the healthiest things you can do.

There is nothing weak about acknowledging that something hurt you, disappointed you, or caught you by surprise. Life would be far easier if we could simply switch emotions on and off, but that is not how we are built. Our feelings exist for a reason. They remind us of what matters to us. They show us where we have invested our time, our energy, and sometimes our hearts.

So if something affects you, it is perfectly okay to pause and acknowledge it.

You can admit that a situation did not feel good.
You can recognize that someone’s actions left you disappointed.
You can accept that things did not turn out the way you hoped they would.

None of that means you are stuck.

Acknowledging your feelings is not the same as living in them forever. It simply means you are being honest with yourself. It means you are giving yourself the grace to process what happened instead of pretending it did not matter.

But after that moment of honesty, something else gently calls you forward.

Life still has things waiting for you.

There is still work to do.
Still goals to pursue.
Still moments ahead that you have not yet experienced.

And so, with quiet strength, you gather yourself and continue.

Keeping moving does not always mean making big, dramatic changes. Often it looks much simpler than that. It looks like getting up the next day and doing what needs to be done. It looks like continuing to show up for your responsibilities. It looks like slowly redirecting your energy toward the things that help you grow.

Progress, more often than not, is quiet.

It is made up of small decisions that no one else really sees. The decision to let go of what you cannot control. The decision to stop replaying a moment that has already passed. The decision to protect your peace and invest your energy where it truly belongs.

Sometimes keeping moving means leaving certain spaces behind. Sometimes it means adjusting expectations you once held tightly. And sometimes it simply means reminding yourself that one difficult chapter does not define the rest of your story.

Life has a beautiful way of opening new paths when we are willing to keep walking.

You may not always know exactly where the road will lead. There will be moments when you are simply taking one step at a time, trusting that clarity will come as you go. And often, it does.

Every step forward creates space for something new. Every step helps you grow a little stronger, a little wiser, a little more grounded in who you are becoming.

One day you may look back and realize that the moments that once felt like pauses were actually quiet turning points — moments that gently guided you toward something better suited for your journey.

That is why it is important to keep moving.

Not hurriedly.
Not forcefully.
But steadily and with grace for yourself.

Feel what you need to feel.
Acknowledge the moments that mattered.
And then continue doing what life is asking of you.

You do not have to have everything figured out today.

You simply have to take the next step.

And then the next.

Just keep moving.

Posted in Uncategorized

Valentine’s Day 2026: Love That Filled the Screen — and Our Home

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Valentine’s Day 2026 was one with a difference. It was about devotion streaming across oceans, a simple shift from laptop to television — and a home filled with love with blessings flowing.

From Laptop to TV — Making Space for Grace

I began watching the Sri Hanuman Chalisa Parayana on my laptop — the sacred gathering taking place at Maharaja Grounds in Mysore, led by His Holiness Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda.

The chants were powerful even through a small screen.

That was early morning (just after midnight here) and then I opted to get some rest as I needed to work. Later in the morning I went back on YouTube for Divya Nama Sankeertana. The kids who are early risers noticed and asked, “Is that Tataji?” I said yes and let them know He was live from India and asked them if they wanted to see Him live.

So, I switched from the laptop to the TV. They were listening to bhajans and trying to sing along.

And just like that, our living room transformed.

The screen grew larger. The sound filled the space. The sacred chants seemed to settle into the walls of our home.

There was something beautiful about that — simple, direct, unfiltered. They did not ask complicated questions. They just wanted to see Him. To watch. To stay.

In that moment, Valentine’s Day became about shared devotion.

Then came the next request:

“Can we see the Shuka Vana birds?”

So we searched and brought up the beautiful parrots of Shuka Vana on the big screen.

Instant joy.

The children laughed and began repeating what the parrots said — carefully listening, mimicking the sounds, trying again and again. The room filled with giggles and playful echoes of chirps and phrases.

It was lighthearted.
It was innocent.
It was full of life.

And somehow, it felt perfectly aligned with the sacredness of the day.

A Valentine’s Day to Remember

This year, love looked like:

  • A laptop becoming a TV broadcast.
  • A living room turning into a prayer space.
  • Children recognizing their Guru on screen.
  • Laughter while repeating parrots’ words.
  • Quality family time with the kids enjoying singing, seeing birds, making linkages and getting answers to their questions.

Distance did not matter.
Screens did not diminish the experience.

If anything, it reminded me that love transcends geography.

Valentine’s Day 2026 was not about what we received.

It was about what we shared:
Faith.
Family.
Joy.
Connection.

And in that simple act of switching screens, we made space for something much bigger — grace filling our home.

Jai Hanuman.
Jaya Guru Datta.

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

Celebrating New Year’s Day 2026: Grounded, Grateful, and Guided

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Trust me when I say that New Year’s Day unfolded just the way my spirit needed it to—slow, intentional, and filled with meaning. No rush. No pressure. Just calm vibes, gratitude, and a deep sense of alignment with what truly matters.

Being the person that I am, I rushed through Old Year’s Day sorting some overdue pending stuff but before the kids went to sleep I told them this, “This is your last hug for 2025. When you get up it’s going to be 2026 and you will be showered with more love, hugs and kisses.” So said, so done!

New Year’s  day began with a group family call, and in that moment, I was reminded that distance never diminishes love. Hearing familiar voices, sharing laughs, and exchanging blessings instantly warmed my heart. It felt like the perfect way to welcome a new year—connected, supported, and surrounded by love.

Spending quality time with family was the heartbeat of the day. Watching their excitement, listening to their thoughts, witnessing their enthusiasm and the entire opposite, sharing simple conversations, and just being present reminded me that these moments are the real treasures. No elaborate plans were needed—just time, attention, and love. Their joy grounded me and reinforced why I strive to build a life rooted in purpose and balance.

One of the most sacred moments of the day was our visit to Lord Hanuman. There was a powerful stillness in that space—one that calms the mind and strengthens the spirit. Spending time by Lord Hanuman, visiting the temple, all of it was deeply symbolic. Each step was filled with quiet prayer. For me it is letting go of what I need to, giving thanks for lessons learned, and welcoming the strength, discipline, and devotion needed for the year ahead. Collectively it brings clarity, humility, and peace—exactly what I need to carry into this new chapter. We were also able to meet Datta devotees who are like family members to us, and this too is a great blessing!

There was also a gentle satisfaction in having New Year’s Day responsibilities sorted early. Most times I am rushing but this time I wasn’t. Clearing small tasks felt like clearing mental space. Truth be told, I started sorting on Boxing Day. It allowed the rest of the day to flow effortlessly with me doing things I needed to and me being me.

The warmth of the day extended beyond our home through lovely neighbours who are simply the best—kind exchanges, genuine smiles, and that reassuring reminder that goodness lives in everyday interactions. These moments may seem small, but they are powerful, they are meaningful, they uplift us and connect us.

As the day settled, my thoughts turned inward to intentions for a better year. Not louder goals or unrealistic resolutions, but quieter promises to myself. I choose peace, to protect my energy, remain focused and driven, be more present, and continue growing with grace. It promises to be year of conscious living, honest effort, and meaningful moments.

New Year’s Day didn’t demand anything from me, but it aligned me. With family, good neighbours, friends, faith, simplicity, and love leading the way. It is the most authentic start I could ask for.

Here’s to moving forward with calm vibes, a grateful heart, and steady faith. Here’s to celebrating existence one intentional day at a time.

From me to you, I wish you health, happiness, and an abundance of blessings in the year ahead. May you be surrounded by positivity, light and good vibes all the way!

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

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

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

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.

@rachaelathomasj

#onthisday #rachaelathomasj #celebratingexistence #fyp #lovelife

♬ Moments We Live For – In Paradise

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.

@rachaelathomasj

#onthisday #vocênasceuparamudar #rachaelathomasj #celebratingexistence #fyp

♬ Vibes – ZHRMusic

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

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

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

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

When Helping Hurts: Staying True to Yourself Despite Misunderstandings

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

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 Celebrate Today, Celebrating Existence, Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji

Celebrating Sri Swamiji’s Guinness World Records and the Living Forest of Peace

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Yes, this post is dedicated to His Holiness and celebrating Him. He is our dearest Pujya Appaji. I have never had a reason to doubt Appaji and very often I refer to Him as the Divine Master and sometimes too, the Bearded Master who is filled with compassion.

As many know, the spiritual legacy of His Holiness Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, founder of the Avadhoota Datta Peetham in Mysore, is filled not only with divine teachings and healing music, but also with miraculous achievements that continue to inspire the world. Pujya Appaji can be described in so many ways. He is His Holiness, Appaji, Tataji, Aripo Muni Raja, Nada Brahma and so much more. His life is a tapestry woven with threads of compassion, dedication, He is purity, He is peace and tranquility, He is sincerity in its purest form, He is wisdom at its fullest and day in day out, every waking second, moment after moment, He continues to make a global impact—and many of these threads have been officially recognized by Guinness World Records.

Today’s was the most recent. https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1667rzsLez/ What was it for?

A Living Miracle: 10,836 Rare Bonsai Trees

Today, June 14th, 2025 the Guinness World Records awarded a new title to His Holiness Dr. Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji and Avadhoota Datta Peetham for housing 10,836 of the world’s rarest bonsai trees in one single location. This sacred forest of miniatures—each a living soul—forms the largest bonsai collection in the world. These trees are not just a botanical marvel but also a symbol of patience, care, and spiritual discipline.

Vanadurga Vriksha Shanti Yagnam: A Prayer for the Planet

What sets this divine garden apart is not just the trees, but the sacred rituals that breathe life into them. Pujya Appaji performed the Vanadurga Vriksha Shanti Yagnam, a powerful Vedic ceremony dedicated to Mother Nature and the guardian deity of forests, Vanadurga Devi. This ancient yagna was conducted in the very presence of these rare bonsais—a spiritual act to invoke healing, harmony, and balance for all living beings and the natural world.

This Guinness World Record Pujya Appaji said, “Thank You team Bonsai. Today’s Bonsai Guinness Record is not just my effort; it is the effort of many in the background.” https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16WyYR4W6h/

So what are Pujya Appaji’s other record-breaking feats of devotion and harmony?

Pujya Appaji’s mission of global peace and spiritual healing has led to numerous Guinness World Records, including:

  • Most people chanting (Hanuman Chalisa) Led 128,918 participants in Tenali, Andhra Pradesh
  • Largest music therapy lesson- Conducted a therapy session with 1,814 participants at the Sydney Opera House on 6 April 2015
  • Longest chanting marathon (team)- A relay of continuous chanting for 24 hr 10 min 8 sec at Karya Siddhi Hanuman Temple, Frisco, Texas on 31 July 2015
  • Largest breathing (pranayama) lesson- Hosted at India Community Center, Milpitas, California, USA on 10 July 2016.
  • Largest online video album of people chanting- Compiled 40,976 individual chanting videos; announced in Carapichaima, Trinidad and Tobago on 31 July 2016.
  • Largest display of bonsai trees-Showcased 2,649 bonsai trees at the International Bonsai Convention in Mysore Ashram on 21 December 2016.
  • Most bird species in an aviary. His Shuka Vana aviary housed 486 bird species on 6 May 2017.
  • Largest Hindu Smriti (scriptural text)
    A monumental Bhagavad Gita Smriti measuring 2.24 m × 1.56 m, completed on 26 May 2017.
  • World’s largest special postal stamp
    Made by Avadhoota Datta Peetham, 2.87 m², on 26 May 2018
  • Largest online video album of birthday wishes/greetings- Compiled 7,651 birthday-message videos on 10 June 2022 to celebrate Pujya Appaji’s 80th birthday.
  • Largest online video album of people walking; Included 6,389 walking-video submissions tied to the “Vishwashanti Padā Yātrā” virtual walkathon on 10 June 2022.
  • Largest simultaneous Hindu text recital- 1,329 participants recited the Srimad Bhagavad Gita together at Allen Event Center, Texas on 13 August 2022.
  • Largest special stamp (Nada Mantapa image)-Measuring 13.104 m², created at Avadhoota Datta Peetham, Mysuru on 13 December 2024.
  • Longest chanting marathon (team)- A new record of 33 hr 33 min 33 sec of continuous Hanuman Chalisa team chanting, held 12–13 December 2024 at Nada Mantapa

These are all rooted in the Swamiji’s vision of “Lokāḥ Samastāḥ Sukhino Bhavantu” – May all beings everywhere be happy and peaceful.

Pujya Appaji’s messages are messages beyond records. These world records are not mere numbers. They represent a global spiritual movement led by a realized Master who walks gently on Earth while guiding millions toward inner peace. From sacred chants that echo healing to ancient trees that whisper wisdom, Pujya Appaji’s works are a reminder that divine miracles happen not only in the heavens but also on Earth, when one lives in service to all life. Pujya Appaji’s remarkable achievements span spiritual, ecological, musical, and community domains—reflecting his holistic vision of service, harmony, and global unity.

Let us bow in gratitude and wonder at the divine mission of Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, whose legacy continues to grow—like the sacred bonsais—quietly powerful, deeply rooted, and eternally inspiring. Sri Guru Datta.