A 2014 study by the National Assessment of Educational Progress found that three-quarters of American eighth-graders tested below proficient in geography. This could be due to the stereotype that Americans have little concern for the rest of the world, but it’s most likely because they aren’t taught much geography in school. More than half of social studies teachers spend 10% or less of their time on geography and, as of 2013, only 17 states required a geography course in middle school.
This rampant challenge in geographical literacy is a real problem because living in a democratic society requires an informed public — especially when it comes to the question of war. Tensions between the U.S. and North Korea are mounting after North Korea’s successful test of a long-range missile that could theoretically strike the U.S. mainland with a nuclear warhead. As Americans debate whether to go to war, it’s best to understand the threat North Korea poses … and that requires geography.
On Aug. 8, Jimmy Kimmel, host of ABC’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” performed an unscientific test of American geography skills, and the results were not encouraging. “North Korea is the bigly story of the day, if not the year,”Jimmy Kimmel said. “But what I wonder is, how many Americans even know where North Korea is?” He sent a crew out to Hollywood Boulevard to ask locals and tourists to find the rogue nation on a map. Interviewers only gave one tiny hint: It’s right above South Korea.
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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.