This post is brought to you by GOOD with support of Naked Juice
For more than 23 million Americans, a food desert is not a mirage. It’s a daily reality in hundreds of communities that lack access to fresh, affordable, and nutritious food.
The USDA characterizes food deserts as low income, low access neighborhoods that lack grocery stores within a 1 mile proximity for urban residents and 10 miles for rural residents. Many of those in food deserts don’t own vehicles, and rely on corner convenience stores that often stock processed snack products (think potato chips, soft drinks, and candy) rather than raw meat or fresh produce.
Not only do food deserts add to the challenge of food insecurity in America, they create a ripple effect that many policy makers believe contribute to issues like childhood obesity, a higher risk of diabetes and heart diseases, and lost economic and job opportunities for the community.
Food deserts have complex root causes and chances are, you live closer to one than you might think. Take a look at the map and learn how some of America's largest cities are tackling the problem within their own communities. See how food deserts are spread across the U.S. and how these regions intersect with issues like poverty, population density, and transportation access.
Also, to find out how you can help bring fresh produce to underserved communities, click here to learn about Drink Good, Raise Good, a fundraising initiative created by GOOD’s sponsor Naked Juice and Wholesome Wave. To date, Naked Juice has donated 150,000 pounds worth of produce to Wholesome Wave, a national nonprofit which works to make locally-grown fruits and veggies more available to underserved communities through their Double Value Coupon Program at participating farmers markets.
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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.