Most civilian owners of Fitbits and other fitness-tracking apps may not consider the privacy implications of tacking on one more data-collecting device onto the growing list of electronic devices they might own. Unfortunately for some “secret” military installations, the U.S. armed forces may not have given the matter much thought either.
According to a recent Washington Post story, soldiers unwittingly shared sensitive data with the global public whenever they exercised using the Strava app. In November, the company released a map of its users running and biking routes all over the world. Dubbed a “Global Heatmap,” the dynamic graphic shows the amount of activity in a given locale. There’s little surprise that more densely populated areas feature more activity, but it was the activity in otherwise desolate parts of the world that had certain corners of the internet doing their own investigative work.
Unsurprisingly, the United States-led coalition in the fight against the Islamic State was quick to announce that it was reviewing its policies on the use of such technology. Responding to questions from the Washington Post, the group stated, “The Coalition is in the process of implementing refined guidance on privacy settings for wireless technologies and applications, and such technologies are forbidden at certain Coalition sites and during certain activities.”
It sounds like some deployed troops will be working out the old-fashioned way in the name of ensuring certain secret military sites remain secret.
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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.