As part of our Twitter Hero Series (#AiTTwitterHeroes), we’d like to recognize Tyler from East Ridge high School, also known as “ERHSNicewords.” Tyler has been a champion for those who experienced bullying, and is constantly offering words of encouragement, inspration and even a little bit of charm for all those he interacts with.
His dedication to those who reach out to him is admirable and a true attestation of his commitement to making a difference. In just the past few days, here are some of the heartfelt testimonials from his followers:
Here is his story:
“Hello everyone. My name is Tyler. I’m a 16 year old kid going through the same cycle that most teens go through. School, sports, and playing guitar/singing takes up most my time. But that’s not what I’m here to talk about. I’m here to talk about how I am where I am today to give you hope. It all started about 2 years ago. I went to school, had friends, but a lot of people didn’t like me. Specifically how I dressed. I was a prep. I did my hair, wore button ups and a tight pair of jeans. I was called gay, and a faggot and everything but the thing is.. Is I liked girls! Always have. I just dressed to impress;). It seems like no matter what I did or what I wore I would have people attack me. As time moved on I started dating some girls. And I don’t know about you but when I enter a relationship I pour everything I am into and always try my hardest to keep her 
happy. I went through some pretty rough break ups and began to be depressed. I wasn’t good enough. I would tell myself every day. Why am I even here!? I stopped doing activities I loved and I walked away From my friends. No matter what I did I couldn’t get over the break ups because I cared so much. So girls are a huge part of me and always will be. Time moved on and in Freshman and sophomore year I began to really become religious. My beliefs in God push me through every day to be the best person I can be. I started posting my beliefs on Facebook and got verbally attacked pretty bad. Kids would friend me just to write how horrible of a person I was for being a Christian. I was told to kill myself and pretty much just pushed to the very edge. Before anything got really bad. I went to seek help. I told one of my teachers I could trust most who then told counselors who then worked with me to become the kid I used to be. It took a ton of effort and a lot of pain but I got through it. Yes I’m sad once in awhile but I’m mostly happy. I created this account on August 18th, 2012 to help anyone struggling with any problem. I know how hard it can be but with the right support you can make it through. I’m here for you. Ill help you every step of the way become who you want to be. Embrace your individuality. I don’t care if you’re black, white, hispanic, gay, lesbian, tall, short, fat, thin, loud, annoying, or don’t have many friends. I’m here for you. You deserve a life like the rest. #StayStrong and we can #StopBullying <33″ (Originally posted at his TwitLonger, http://www.twitlonger.com/show/jo5arh)
Keep up with him at @ERHSNicewords and his very own hashtag, #TylersWarriors.
