When Becky lost her 19-year-old son Triston, the pain was immeasurable. But in the face of tragedy, there was one thread of hope: Triston's organs, including his heart, went on to save the lives of others.
Two years after his passing, Becky was preparing to marry her partner, Kelly. At the ceremony, they reserved a seat in Triston's memory. On that chair was a sign with a touching message:
"I'm in heaven for your wedding so what shall I do? I'll come down to earth to spend it with you. So save me a seat, just one empty chair. You may not see me but I will be there."
Beautiful noteSource: Love Adventured
The tribute alone was enough to bring tears to the eyes of guests. But unbeknownst to Becky, her husband-to-be had planned something far more profound.
Just before the wedding began, Kelly told Becky someone had arrived that she needed to meet. That’s when Jacob, a 21-year-old man from San Diego, stepped forward. He had flown in just for the occasion—because Triston’s heart was beating in his chest.
"Overwhelmed with emotion, Becky broke down in tears as she listened to her late son's heartbeat with a stethoscope."
The moment was raw and beautiful. Becky leapt with joy as she embraced Jacob, surrounded by guests who wiped their own eyes. It was a reunion of sorts—between a mother and the life her son left behind.
He was there in more than spiritSource: Love Adventured
Photos and video from the wedding soon spread across Facebook, and the story moved thousands. One commenter, Judith Cleek, wrote, "This says so much about her new husband. What a marvelous show of caring and love, so touching and heartwarming."
Another user, Helen Burnett, added, "This is such a beautiful thing... A selfless act of love... Shows us all things are possible... God bless this family."
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Tara Sorensen shared a sentiment that resonated with many: "Why can't we just have one news channel that is dedicated to sharing positive, inspiring stories like this? There is so much kindness and good in the world that could invoke the same if only it was shared."
"Why can't we just have one news channel that is dedicated to sharing positive, inspiring stories like this?"
For Becky and Kelly, the wedding was not only a celebration of love but a powerful reminder that Triston’s legacy still lives on. His heart may have stopped beating in his own body, but its rhythm carried on—echoing through the life of another, and through one unforgettable moment that no one in that ceremony will ever forget.
This article originally appeared eight years ago.
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Grieving couple comforting each other
This response to someone grieving a friend might be the best internet comment ever
When someone is hit with the sudden loss of a friend or loved one, words rarely feel like enough. Yet, more than a decade ago, a wise Redditor named GSnow shared thoughts so profound they still bring comfort to grieving hearts today.
Originally posted around 2011, the now-famous reply was rediscovered when Upvoted, an official Reddit publication, featured it again to remind everyone of its enduring truth. It began as a simple plea for help: “My friend just died. I don't know what to do.”
What followed was a piece of writing that many consider one of the internet’s best comments of all time. It remains shared across social media, grief forums, and personal messages to this day because its honesty and metaphor speak to the raw reality of loss and the slow, irregular path toward healing.
Below is GSnow’s full reply, unchanged, in all its gentle, wave-crashing beauty:
Why this advice still matters
Mental health professionals and grief counselors often describe bereavement in stages or phases, but GSnow’s “wave theory” gives an image more relatable for many. Rather than a linear process, grief surges and retreats—sometimes triggered by a song, a place, or a simple morning cup of coffee.
In recent years, this metaphor has found renewed relevance. Communities on Reddit, TikTok, and grief support groups frequently reshare it to help explain the unpredictable nature of mourning.
Many readers say this analogy helps them feel less alone, giving them permission to ride each wave of grief rather than fight it.
Finding comfort in shared wisdom
Since this comment first surfaced, countless people have posted their own stories underneath it, thanking GSnow and passing the words to others facing fresh heartbreak. It’s proof that sometimes, the internet can feel like a global support group—strangers linked by shared loss and hope.
For those searching for more support today, organizations like The Dougy Center, GriefShare, and local bereavement groups offer compassionate resources. If you or someone you know is struggling with intense grief, please reach out to mental health professionals who can help navigate these deep waters.
When grief comes crashing like the ocean, remember these words—and hang on. There is life between the waves.
This article originally appeared four years ago.