Type the words “Hamilton cover” in the search box on YouTube and you’ll discover there are roughly 6,710,000 videos there of people belting out the hit Broadway musical’s songs — some with more skill than others. But the rendition of a “Hamilton” tune that made the show’s writer and director Lin-Manuel Miranda cry on Wednesday comes from the most famous public school choir in the world: Staten Island’s PS22 Chorus.
As part of the #Ham4All Challenge, a viral social media campaign that Miranda launched, the New York City-based chorus covered “Dear Theodosia,” a song from the first act of the musical. Through the challenge, the Broadway hitmaker hopes to boost support for the Immigrants: We Get the Job Done Coalition, a group of 12 nonprofits that advocate for fair and humane immigration reform.
Miranda is asking people to post video clips of themselves singing or rapping their favorite Hamilton tune. It’s no wonder, then, that the PS22 Chorus chose “Dear Theodosia,” which “Hamilton” character Aaron Burr sings to his baby daughter. Kids in the chorus, which was founded in 2000 by Staten Island native Gregg Breinberg, come from racially and ethnically diverse backgrounds — and given that 37% of New York City residents are immigrants, many of them, or their parents, were likely born in another country.
Lyrics like “Some day, some day. You’ll blow us all away,” perfectly express the hopes and dreams that immigrant families have for their kids when they come to the United States. But in recent months, schools nationwide have had to address the fear some students have that they — or their parents — will be deported.
This isn’t the first time that songs from “Hamilton” have become a rallying point for the immigrant experience. In February, the phrase "Immigrants, We Get the Job Done," which is the title of a song on the “Hamilton Mixtape” album, became a common sight on signs at protests against President Trump’s immigration ban.
The chorus kids singing the song does give chills — so it’s understandable that Miranda would tell his 1.48 million Twitter followers that it made him cry. As for the #Ham4All challenge, it’s not likely that many participants will be able to outsing the PS22 Chorus. Folks who have reason to believe they’re better off singing in the shower can always contribute to a Prizeo campaign that benefits the effort. If they do, they have a chance to win tickets to the Los Angeles premiere of “Hamilton.”
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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.