Viewed through one lens, the notion that grown adults would toss personal insults toward one another—all in the name of ranking their favorite cereals—seems farfetched and ridiculous. But when examined in the context among all the other mundane issues we’ve seen turn into tweetstorm nightmares, it seems almost inevitable that CNN reporter Greg Krieg’s comment on cereal rankings would light a social media powder keg.
Granted, comparing someone who puts Honey Bunches of Oats in the 80th percentile of cereals to a war criminal is a little … dramatic, but this is Twitter, where the bounds of decency and moderation are mere guidelines for behavior.
To that point, the responses came in fast, furious, and predictably profane.
Krieg, perhaps foolishly, stood his ground and responded to a handful of tweets before realizing that moderating this discussion would prove to be a Sisyphean struggle.
In Greg’s absence, the debate persisted.
“The Hague is too good.”
Omitting the Cap’n does seem like an intentionally incendiary act.
As with most social media fights, it didn’t take long before it was 100 percent unclear who supported what, and the whole thing just sort of turned into a beautiful dumpster fire that was clearly not about food anymore.
Another reasonable discussion facilitated by the ease and convenience of social media.
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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.