The world’s most prominent athletes are, sometimes unknowingly, the subject of countless photos while they compete. Those photos become shared social media images, headlines, and even memes. Athletes are focused on winning during their contests, so the overwhelming majority have zero interest in adding degrees of difficulty to their performance by maintaining a photogenic demeanor mid-event.
But, sadly, that doesn’t stop internet trolls from attacking the way athletes — and more often than not female athletes — look during their moments of peak performance. It’s unfair, it’s stupid, and it’s something that prominent athletes must contend with.
Sandi Morris, a 2016 Olympic silver medalist and the holder of the U.S. women’s outdoor pole vault record, has no intention of apologizing or conforming to the unreasonable expectations many have expressed.
She let the world know as much on Twitter.
She was quick to receive the Twitter equivalent of a chorus of “amens” from women athletes who realize that pushing your body as hard as you can doesn’t exactly result in a glamour shot but still serves as a testament to the subject’s drive and intensity.
The gallery of photos that followed Morris’ proclamation was nothing short of inspiring, with Morris herself commenting positively on many of the photos shared.
The entire thread is worth a once-over, and it can be viewed, complete with Morris’ comments on many of the photos, here.
Parents of young children get more time with them if they work from home.Photo credit: Canva
Juicy subject matter
Giphy from The Blacklist.
We could start a rumor.
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.