GRATITUDE Gangsta™?
While discussing articles about former gang members, Vismaya asked, “Why would anyone want to be in a gang?”
A tenth grader, Alex, quickly responded, “Ms., we’re gangstas. We’re GRATITUDE Gangstas. We walk around saying things like, ‘I like your shirt. I like your shoes.”
Another student jumped in, “We carry guns…”
Startled, Vismaya exclaimed, “NO GUNS!”
William smiled and added, “C’mon Miss, we carry the kind that shoots out a flag that says THANK YOU.”
In that moment, Vismaya realized something profound: if her students could understand the power of practicing gratitude, their parents — and eventually entire communities — could too. From that day forward, she adopted the title GRATITUDE Gangsta™, symbolizing resilience, appreciation, and strength.