As governments around the world continue to react to the economic downturn, some people are warning against trade protectionism (i.e., imposing taxes and tariffs to make importing goods into a country more difficult). Indeed, the first draft of the stimulus bill had a "Buy American" provision that would have forced some companies receiving stimulus money to only buy U.S.-made goods. The reason for wanting increased protectionism is fear of a trade deficit, which is when a country imports more than it exports. Some economists argue that a trade deficit is detrimental to our economy, since we are paying to support jobs overseas, rather than at home. Other economists believe that the money sent overseas ends up coming back. Regardless of who is right, the trade deficit of the United States now stands at over $800 billion, so in our latest Transparency we took a look at the 10 countries with which the United States has the largest deficits.
A collaboration between GOOD and Fogelson-Lubliner
SOURCES: TradeStats Express; U.S. Census Bureau
CORRECTION: We've posted a corrected version of this piece. What was formerly labeled as nuclear reactor parts should have been labeled merely machinery-of which nuclear reactor parts are just one example. We regret the error. You can view the uncorrected piece here.
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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.