Earth Day is a time to reflect on where we've been, where we are, and where we're going. There is no better way than by following the life of 86-year-old world icon, Dr. Jane Goodall
National Geographic is commemorating Earth Day with the premiere of Jane Goodall: The Hope, a two-hour documentary that covers the vast legacy of Dr. Goodall's decades of research and advocacy work for chimpanzees.
The documentary covers her groundbreaking research in the '60s when she studied chimpanzees up-close in Tanzania. Her observations would change not only how see chimpanzees, but ourselves as humans.
It also documents Goodall's journey from scientist to activist in the '80s. In her second phase of life, she created unlikely partnerships to rescue captive chimpanzees and protect their natural habitat.
Jane Goodall: The Hope details the important work that she is doing now as she tours the world to spread a positive message in a world being ravaged by climate change.
National Geographic's beautiful documentary also looks to the future with Goodall's Roots 'n Shoots program. Through Roots 'n Shoots, tens of thousands of children in 100 countries are working together to make the world a better place.
"When I'm gone, there are hundreds and hundreds of young people around the world and already they are taking over," Goodall says in the documentary.
Jane Goodall: The Hope premieres Wednesday, April 22, at 9/8c on National Geographic and Nat Geo WILD.
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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.