When Ariana Luterman signed up for the Dallas Marathon as part of a relay team, she had her own agenda. The goal of the high schoolers was to compete with the fastest runners in the race, hoping that, in shifts, the team could best the time of the top individuals running.
However, during Luterman’s leg of the relay, covering the final miles, she saw the leading woman, Chandler Self, struggling. Faced with the choice of surpassing the struggling leader or compromising her team’s finish time to help, Luterman chose to run beside Self for the duration of the race, even propping her new running partner up as Self’s legs gave out in the feet leading up to the finish line.
Speaking to The Dallas Morning News following the race, Luterman offered insight into her decision. “Right when I caught up with her at the [relay team’s] 21/2-mile mark, I told her: ‘Just so you know, the high school relay is out here to compete with you guys,’” she said. “I’m going to be your pacer. We’re going to get you that win.”
Per the newspaper’s account of the marathon’s rules, runners aren’t allowed to receive assistance from those not participating, but the rulebook is silent on whether help is allowed from other runners. It seems the issue is moot, as the runner-up to the victorious Self, Caitlin Keen, has said she has no desire to challenge or contest the official race results.
While Luterman might not get a medal for her efforts, she’s receiving a lot of credit and appreciation from the sports world in the wake of her selfless gesture.
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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.