Colin Kaepernick may not have a job in the NFL, but he’s still got plenty of supporters for the work he’s performed both on and off the field. On Aug. 23, a massive crowd of more than 1,000 demonstrators protested and rallied outside the NFL’s New York City headquarters to show their support for the former 49ers quarterback who took a knee during pregame national anthems last season and has struggled to find a new team since.
While the rally, dubbed “United We Stand,” was nominally and effectively in support of Kaepernick, many used the opportunity to continue the call to attention over police brutality against African-Americans, one of the issues behind Kaepernick’s symbolic protest. Many in attendance felt that Kaepernick continues to be blackballed by the league for his position on social issues, leading to chants of “Boycott! Boycott!” among protesters.
Wednesday afternoon, the NAACP — members of which were present at the rally — sent a request for a meeting with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell to discuss Kaepernick and the surrounding controversy.
Also yesterday, baseball legend Hank Aaron spoke to the matter, stating that NFL teams are giving Kaepernick a “raw deal” and urging them to “give him a chance.”
The rally and flurry of activity come after news on Tuesday that, despite his continued unemployment, Kaepernick will be continuing to fulfill his “Million Dollar Pledge” aimed at “fighting oppression and uplifting our communities.”
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.