Seattle Seahawks player Michael Bennett has never shied away from using his platform as a pro athlete to speak his mind on social issues. His Instagram account is far heavier on socially responsibility than on-field activity, and with the Charlottesville tragedies fresh in his mind, he’s making his feelings on that matter known as well.
Prior to Sunday’s preseason game against the Chargers, Bennett remained seated in protest as the national anthem played in the stadium. In a video interview with ESPN, he not only discussed his concerns about standing (or sitting) alone with so many eyes upon him, but also the need for a white player to join in protest to shift the perception of protest from that of a defensive act to one starting a dialogue.
A transcript of his remarks explains how he thinks more diverse participation, namely by a white player, could advance the conversation more than anything up to this point:
“At this point, you just gotta keep speaking and hopefully other guys will join you. I honestly believe that it would take a white player to really get things changed. When somebody from the other side understands and they step up and they speak about it, it would change the whole conversation because you bring somebody who doesn’t really have to be part of the conversation to make themselves vulnerable in front of it. I think when that happens things will really take a big jump.”
His stance on hoping for participation by white players is well documented; he spoke to the matter last September amid Colin Kaepernick’s controversial refusal to stand for the national anthem. He told the Seattle Times:
“You need a white guy to join the fight. The white guy is super important to the fight. For people to really see social injustices, there must be someone from the other side of the race who recognizes the problem, because a lot of times if just one race says there’s a problem, nobody is realistic about it.”
While public statements such as these may scare off many players, Bennett has built his reputation as a player who speaks his mind. Plus, he recently signed a three-year contract, ensuring he doesn’t suffer the same “black balling” that Kaepernick did at the hands of NFL front offices.
Earlier this year, the Seahawk’s star defensive end boycotted a trip to Israel sponsored by their government, saying “I will not be used in such a way,” after learning that he was invited to bolster the nation’s agenda.
As for the matters of the protest to discuss domestic social issues, Bennett may have the support of other black players, but the silence of white players on the matter continues to be deafening.
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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.