Since the St. Louis Blues, an American team, were playing the Canucks in Vancouver last night, bluesman Jim Byrnes was set to pull double duty, belting out not just “O Canada,” but “The Star Spangled Banner” as well.
Unfortunately, things hit a snag early on as the mic began to audibly cut in and out as he was finishing the American National Anthem. Luckily, the enthusiastic crowd was willing and able to step in and finish the song.
Here they are, not only wrapping up “The Star Spangled Banner,” but kicking off and seeing through “O Canada” as well:
Byrne, not one to abandon his post in the face of a technical glitch, led the crowd in both songs, continuing to sing with no amplification. It was clearly a spirited way to kick off the game.
Oh, and in case you thought an American venue wouldn’t be able to return the favor (like I did) because they wouldn’t know the words to “O Canada,” I’m happy to say there’s definitive proof that’s NOT the case.
In November of 2014, a singer’s mic dropped out in similar fashion, leading Toronto fans to finish the “The Star Spangled Banner” prior to a Predators-Maple Leafs game. Then, months later, Predators fans in Nashville were quick to return the favor when the Maple Leafs came to town.
Here’s the Nashville crowd belting out “O Canada” to honor the opposing team:
Nice to see our two countries can cover for each other isn’t it?
Wiman hiding her face behind a bunch of cashCanva
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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.