love – Celebrating Existence

Celebrating the Life of My Grandmother

Posted on September 16, 2025December 7, 2025 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:

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

Forever in Our Hearts: Remembering My Dad

Posted on September 15, 2025December 7, 2025 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!

Uncategorized

Celebrating the Power of 1 Moment of Clarity

Posted on August 12, 2025 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.

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

When Helping Hurts: Staying True to Yourself Despite Misunderstandings

Posted on August 10, 2025 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?

Stand firm in your truth. You know your intentions. Don’t let someone else’s opinion rewrite your story.
Release the need for approval. Kindness given with strings attached isn’t pure kindness. Give freely, and let go of how it’s received.
Set healthy boundaries. Being kind doesn’t mean allowing others to repeatedly hurt you. Distance is not unkindness—it’s self-respect.
Choose your battles wisely. Not every misunderstanding needs defending. Sometimes silence speaks louder than explanations.
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.

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

Celebrating Time: Happy New Year 2025!

Posted on January 1, 2025June 7, 2025 by rachaelathomasj

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

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

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

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

What are some of my wins?

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

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

@rachaelathomasj
Happy New Year 2025! #newyearsday #happynewyear #rachaelathomasj #celebratingexistence #2025 #today #motivation #inspiration #fyp #faith #blessed #you
♬ original sound – rachaelathomasj

@rachaelathomasj
Happy New Year 2025 #happynewyear #goodvibes #positivity #rachaelathomasj #celebratingexistence #newyearsday #2025 #lovelife #fyp #today #blessed #you
♬ 2025 Happy New year – Alexander Shangoi Syiem

Love and Blessings, Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji

Celebrating Pujya Appaji!

Posted on July 13, 2024 by rachaelathomasj

In this post I am celebrating His Holiness Parama Pujya Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, our dearest Pujya Appaji! Appaji is like no other and those who know His Holiness can surely agree that He has never been! Appaji, over and over again, I place my most humble prostrations at Your Lotus Feet!

Not one day in my life have I ever questioned Appaji or His greatness and Appaji knows I never would. My journey with Appaji began years ago as a little girl seeing His name and trying to say it and practicing it syllable by syllable without knowing Sachchidanda means ‘truth, consciousness and bliss”. To see Pujya Appaji’s smiling face is always a comfort. To hear His voice, read His messages, go through the different platforms He exposes us to daily is only just a fraction of the many blessings we receive on a daily basis!

From the very first day I saw Pujya Appaji, His priceless smile and His eyes said it all! Every day of our lives with Pujya Appaji has been a blessing and no number of words can adequately say Thank You to His Holiness for all He has done for us and continues to do for us! As I am writing this, I am listening to Appaji’s bhajans, and His voice is my comfort.

When I posted on Facebook a few days ago it felt like I was looking on at a dream and as these past two weeks have unfolded Appaji and Lord Hanuman showed that together They have provided protection and guidance consistently as always.

Indeed, I had a career opportunity that I was working towards for over the last eight years. When it came it felt surreal. I had forgotten about it for a bit because of how long I had applied but I was honored to be selected. I spoke to Shiva and let him know I needed the kids and him with me as I couldn’t be away from them for over a month and leave them alone so he knew what my thoughts were and though I followed the instructions I was given, I spoke mentally to Appaji saying, “Whatever You decide I will follow!” The reality was that I just needed to make an effort to show interest and I did, but nothing else was in my hands and with good reason! This job would have placed my entire family in jeopardy because as I said, I would have been on an island waiting with Shiva and our little ones for Hurricane Beryl to hit. Seeing the damage it wreaked on so many people in so many countries, knowing how many people it affected, I know what we were spared from.

My reality is this:

Pujya Appaji and Lord Hanumanta have saved me several times and I will always be eternally grateful for this.
Pujya Appaji has taught me the value of silence on so many levels.
Pujya Appaji has taught me why I need to focus.
Pujya Appaji has given me many avenues to be good and do good.

Like me, many of you can attest to the fact that:

5. Pujya Appaji blesses us each day abundantly and no number of words can adequately say Thank You because we owe Pujya Appaji a debt of gratitude that we can never repay.

6. Pujya Appaji has found so many avenues to interact with us on a daily basis that He reminds us He is always with us. We have Pujya Appaji’s social media platforms, SGS Posts and all other apps, YouTube, the Ashramas and Datta Yoga Centers globally, Kriya Yoga, Bhagavad Gita, Kavachas, daily live sessions, Dattavani speeches and Bhajans just to name a few.

7. Pujya Appaji has established several Bala Datta Centers to ensure that our children are taken care of.

8. Pujya Appaji has authorized the publishing of so many books available in print and as e-books on sites like Amazon.

9. Pujya Appaji has given us Ragas and provided us with Healing Music.

10. Pujya Appaji has and continues to tell us and show us day after day, how to take better care of ourselves.

11. Pujya Appaji has always been committed to helping us take better care of ourselves.

12. Pujya Appaji has always been committed to serving mankind.

13. Pujya Appaji has and continues to teach us how to take better care of our environment, and by extension, this world we live in.

14. Pujya Appaji’s actions have always been selfless.

15. Pujya Appaji has always been committed to helping people the world over!

16. Pujya Appaji always urges us to live together.

17. Pujya Appaji does not discriminate.

18. Pujya Appaji is the purest representation of Divinity, Selflessness and all that is good.

19. Pujya Appaji leads by example.

20. Pujya Appaji’s commitment, dedication and love have been unwavering.

21. Pujya Appaji loves us all and that love speaks volumes.

Appaji, we pray for Your Health and will continue to do so! We thank You immensely for all You have done for us and continue to do for us, every second of every day! We love You Appaji!

Love You Daddy, Remembering Loved Ones

Celebrating my Dad on Father’s Day!

Posted on June 16, 2024 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!

Being Prayerful, Celebrate Today, Life, Love and Blessings, Love You Daddy, Remembering Loved Ones

Celebrating Life and Our Loved Ones

Posted on January 11, 2020January 12, 2020 by rachaelathomasj

This post is dedicated to celebrating our loved ones and in particular those who have passed on.

cropped-celebrate-your-existence

In life you may see it as winning some and losing some but don’t see it as a race or a contest. See it as a journey with lessons that is meant to be lived to the fullest. Things may come unexpectedly and we can all agree that none of us is sure what tomorrow will bring.

Let us look at it like this: Life is a journey and on that journey there are many experiences. Just as people come into our lives so too we enter other people’s lives. Just as we make our entrances and exits so do they and the exits we make or they make are in preparation for a new chapter of the journey. Not all exits are the same and some are understandably harder than others.

The time we spend with each other gives us time to experience and to learn. In essence it gives us time to do good and to be good. It gives us time to learn, time to love, time to make the most of. It gives us time to celebrate the time we share, the opportunities we are given to learn from each other and to create memories while celebrating the opportunity those in our lives have given us to become better and do better.

This being said it is important to live each day as your last, make the most of each moment, do the things you need to do and give it the absolute best that you can. Life is uncertain and unpredictable if you want to call it such so get in the habit of making each moment matter.

Photo Credit: Mandy Hale

If you cannot for one reason or another (such as health or immobility) be thankful for all that you have and all that you have done and keep praying. Celebrate all that you are and all that you have accomplished. Take the time too to celebrate all your loved ones and all they have accomplished and all they stood for.

Photo Credit: loveliveson.com

Though we are taught to accept that when there is birth, death is inevitable, life’s journey may shake us in some unexpected ways. God, regardless of how we refer to Him, is caring, loving and forgiving. He nurtures, He protects and He guides so being angry with Him is not an option. Instead ask Him for courage and strength to deal with your loss. I know it is easier said than done but I maintain that I am no expert and I hold firmly to my belief that you cannot tell someone how to feel if you are not in their shoes.

Grief should not be bottled so don’t bottle it.

Just as you celebrate you, take the time to celebrate the loved ones who have passed on.

Remember their smiles, their words, the love they showered you with and the lessons they taught you. Remember the moments you shared and the impact they have had on your life. Thank God for the time you had together. Ask for peace of mind for yourself and courage to face the realities of what is.

Live without regrets.
Make every moment matter.
Create beautiful memories.
Let go of animosity.
Be true to yourself.
Thank God for every moment.
Trust what you know.
Keep your focus and do what you need to.
Continue to do your duty.

Happy New Year 2018, Uncategorized

Celebrating Life: Happy New Year 2018!

Posted on December 31, 2017January 1, 2018 by rachaelathomasj

Happy New Year CE Happy New Year to everyone!

As we bid farewell to 2017 and welcome 2018 I wish you a Bright, Blessed and Happy New Year! I hope we can celebrate 2018 together and take it by celebration after celebration!

By no means do I want to make this a long post but I want it to be a true celebration of good things to come for all of us and a celebration of all that we have overcome in 2017! Let’s promise to take it one day at a time and remember that everytime you feel down this is one place you can visit to find something that may cheer you up or inspire you to continue!

cropped-celebrate-your-existence each day is a blessing

Celebrating Existence Post

All in all this blog comprises of 81 posts. What is my challenge to you for 2018? Find as many posts on my page that can inspire either you or someone you know. Then share them and make someone’s day better! Whether it is one line or one link if it can make a positive difference please share it.

I urge you once again to please download SGSPosts for positive and uplifting messages if you have not already done this. It is an app which delivers messages by His Holiness Param Pujya Dr Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji that are based on ‘peace, love, brotherhood and universal co-existence’ across the world. You can download it using any of these links:

https://bnc.lt/sgsposts
https://itunes.apple.com/tt/app/sgs-posts/id1097382754?mt=8 (For iPhone users)
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.sgsragasagara.sgs_posts (For Android users)

In closing please enjoy these musical treats:

Allow me also to share what ended 2017 for me on a high note. Below is the link to His Holiness Param Pujya Dr Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji’s Healing and Meditation Concert in Taipei, Taiwan yesterday (Dec 31, 2017). Sri Swamiji’s concert was a Nada Gita Raga Sagara and it was viewed by many Datta devotees the world over. Please remember it is a Healing and Meditation Concert so do not open this link if you are driving, going to drive, operating machinery or about to operate machinery.

https://livestream.com/YogaSangeeta3/dec2017/videos/167806092

Once again everyone Happy New Year 2018! Lots of love from me to each of you now and always!

Uncategorized

Celebrating International Day of Families!

Posted on May 15, 2016May 23, 2016 by rachaelathomasj

Did you know that today is International Day of Families? Indeed it is!

It’s a day to celebrate not just today but everyday as with all other big occasions! Either way let’s do it now and let’s do it together! Ready, set go, let’s begin!

This is one song we can relate you I am sure you will agree! Have fun with it!

Today I celebrate my family! It is through family we learn so many things and it’s also the people we spend most of our lives with. We are not all blessed with the same experiences but what would be interesting is the answer you might come up with to this question: What does family mean to you?

Allow me to answer it myself- it’s my immediate family, my extended family, my Coromandel Shiv Mandir family, my Dattatreya family, my COSTAATT family as well as those other special people in my life (my close friends). Family means these special people who I enjoy spending time with, who I laugh with, learn from and people who I value! Family is laughter, support, being there for each other, sharing moments, creating memories, encouraging each other. It is love and togetherness! It is knowing I am always there for you as best as I can be! It’s letting you know I’m looking out for you!

Truth be told I don’t think your answer would be one specific thing but I think one thing we can all agree on is that family is everything! We laugh, we cry, we talk, at times we disagree, but we love each other and a lot of times we learn from each other. Then there are times when we all realize how much we care about each other and how much every family member means to us!

We would all have different stories to tell! This was something I really enjoyed and I am quite happy to share with you! Please have a look at this video which describes the importance of family in life :

It’s very important not to lose sight of the people in our lives that matter! Live without regrets! Time waits on no one!

family1 — Embrace our opportunities and forever be thankful for our Blessings!

In closing remember this message: Other things may change but we start and end with the family!

family 2 Happy International Day of the Family from me and my family to you and your family!

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A Man of Integrity

A Life of Giving

The Little Things I Miss

His Legacy Lives On

Forever Remembered

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