Every year, the online photo site/community Imgur hosts one of the largest Secret Santa swaps in the world, bringing thousands together to surprise strangers with goodwill. And when you get that many people involved, don’t be surprised if a celebrity or two turn up to join in the festivities.
This year, Olympic swimmer (and gold medalist) Ryan Held participated in the site’s Secret Santa exchange and gave one lucky Imgurian a gift they won’t soon forget. Member BurtonBrit shared her story on the site when she was overwhelmed by the gift that came her way.
She said in her post online:
Came home late after a looong day. Checked the mailbox and found this hanging out inside!
Instantly knew it was from a secret santa, but my husband and I both signed up, so I had to check to see which one of us it was for. This one was for me, yay! Still called my husband up to enjoy opening it with me. I looked to see where it was from, and saw the state, but honestly didn't really pay much attention to the senders name before opening. I know, I know.... I was excited!
Here’s what she had to good fortune to come across from her Secret Santa (who probably wasn’t quite so secret after the gift was unwrapped):
Not only did she get this amazing gift, but also a very sweet letter from fellow Imgurian Ryan Held:
The lucky teacher was over the moon that he’d also put such thought into a letter to her.
The greatest letter I have ever received. I started tearing up and shaking (still shaking actually).
@Heldilox I saw your interview clips online after the race this summer, I had a similar reaction while reading this! I was so moved by the part about my students, that's about where I lost it!
And to prove what a great guy he really is, he also included another letter addressed to the teacher’s students, offering up a little advice based on the path he’s taken to Olympic success:
As far as Secret Santa gifts go, this has to be among the best in history. Sure beats a Starbucks gift card or a bottle opener!
I am blown away. THANK YOU RYAN HELD!
Not only has my day been made, but my week, Christmas, year even. Thank you so, so, so much. I will update the post my students' reactions tomorrow night.
Wiman hiding her face behind a bunch of cashCanva
A mansion and its reflection in the swimming poolCanva
Salzburg at nightCanva
Fancy homeCanva
Happy volunteersCanva
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.