Two days after video footage emerged of a United Airlines passenger being forcibly and brutally removed from an airplane, the prevailing response from the public is nothing short of outrage over his treatment.
In the past 24 hours alone, matters have been made worse through the issuance of a statement, thought of by many as callous and tone-deaf, from United CEO Oscar Munoz via Twitter:
People have been eager to share their thoughts and frustration online, and Cleveland Browns offensive tackle Joe Thomas is no exception. Using his Twitter platform, Thomas fired off several tweets expressing his outrage over the incident, as well as mocking their choice of language and approach in their subsequent statement to the public.
He starts off by stating the obvious—United might be in some very hot water, legally speaking.
Wheels Up is a platform that makes private aviation more affordable through a subscription model (but still very, very expensive).
Like so many others, Thomas also expressed his contempt for airlines’ use of nonsense terminology to obfuscate their real intentions, taking issue with the airline’s declaration that dragging a bloodied man down an aisle was a “re-accommodation.”
He rested his case with this simple and resonant tweet.
At least the NFL puts players in pads before they get “re-accommodated.”
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.