Joe Biden's victory over President Trump signals a fundamental change in American policy both foreign and domestic. But, on a personal level, it profoundly affects countless American lives whether it's their immigration status, comfort as a person of color or simply how they talk to their children.
The election sends a powerful message about the importance of character and is a strong repudiation of bigotry.
After the news that Biden won Pennsylvania was an announced on CNN, contributor Van Jones broke down in tears of happiness and relief because of the positive impact the news will have on millions of people.
"It's easier to be a parent this morning, it's more easy to be a dad," Jones said with his voice cracking. "It's easier to tell your kids that character matters. It matters. Telling the truth matters, being a good person matters."
"It's easier for a lot of people. If you're Muslim in this country, you don't have to worry if the president doesn't want you here," he went continued.
"You don't have to worry if the president's gonna be happy to have your babies snatched away, send back Dreamers for no reason," he said.
Biden's election provides a sense of security to countless people across the country.
"You're waking up and there are these tweets and you just don't know. You're going to the store and people who have been afraid to show their racism….it's getting nastier and nastier to you, and you're worried about your kids, and you're worried about your sister," Jones said.
"And this is a big deal for us — just to be able to get some peace and have a chance for a reset. And the character of the country matters and being a good man matters. You know, I just want my sons to to look at this," he added.
"It's easy to do it the cheap way and get away with stuff, but it comes back around and is the good thing for this country," he said.
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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.