When it comes to quick thinking and teamwork, a handful of citizens in the Kunming area of China set the bar pretty high after noticing a disturbing sight along the town’s river: An elderly man had lost his footing on the riverbank and fallen in. Having lost consciousness in the near-freezing waters, he was adrift and face down near the bank when several bystanders noticed him and immediately sprang to action.
In addition to being dangerously frigid, the water in the river was infested with sewage and toxic refuse, so potential rescuers wouldn’t be able to enter the water.
First, one man was supported over the icy waters, hoping to hook the man’s foot with an outstretched umbrella:
When that didn’t work, the people onshore formed an impressive human ladder, allowing the nearest ood Samaritan to grab his foot and pull him to land:
The heroism didn’t stop there, though. Once pulled to safety, the man remained unconscious, so resuscitation efforts were underway. A citizen performed CPR until the ambulance arrived, saving the man’s life.
This all took place in just less than a minute, which might be the most efficient use of teamwork and problem-solving we’ve seen—ever.
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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.