People used to eat people. It actually wasn’t that uncommon for early man to eat other early men. There are a few different theories as to why it was so common. A prevailing theory is that people were eaten so that other predators wouldn’t smell the bodies and come into the human cave to eat the dead human, and then, “Oh, there’s a few live humans here. Let’s eat these guys too.” Beyond the consumption of human flesh, skulls were also often used as cups. (Hey, early men were environmentalists, too.)
Of course, humans don’t eat human meat anymore unless you’re performance artist Rick Gibson or anyone that drinks Soylent (lol). But, all this talk about eating humans begs the question, what other things did we used to eat that now seem totally off limits?
Manatees
Yes, everyone’s favorite Floridian resident used to be everyone’s favorite dinner. One fascinating article on a Belizean vacation-planning site describes, in graphic detail, the hunting, skinning, and eating of the fatty beast in the 1960s. Despite having the nickname sea cow, the author describes the flavor as “pork-like.”
Elephant
Technically people still eat elephant, though they’re not supposed to. In fact, the International Union for Conservation of Nature warns the poaching of elephants for their meat in the Democratic Republic of Congo is threatening more elephants than the ivory trade. But eating elephant meat wasn’t always thought of as detrimental to the pachyderm population. In Paleolithic times, early hominins basically survived off these enormous creatures. And through the 19th century, Western travel writers, including Dr. Livingstone, presumably had a predilection for the elephantine.
Beaver
Actually beaver is still eaten quite a bit, but it used to be eaten by early American trappers as a staple. In fact, the Catholic Church used to say eating red meat on holy days—which made up about half the year—was forbidden. But because the rodent spent a lot of time in water, in the late 17th century, the fuzzy slappers were classified as fish by the church, turning holy day hunger pangs into belt belly overhangs. Also, according to the gourmands at Saveur, grilled beaver tails taste like brains.
The world over, endangered animals including lions, sea turtles, and pangolins are consumed for their meat. Check out 10 other animals that may sound like a delicious meal, but should be avoided as dinner at all costs.
Parents of young children get more time with them if they work from home.Photo credit: Canva
Juicy subject matter
Giphy from The Blacklist.
We could start a rumor.
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.