Serena Williams continues to build on a tennis career that has already solidified her place as one of the the best in history. But while her dominance has been taken for granted by many, her rise and tenure at the top have brought with them criticisms that the legend continues to face for no other reason than she is a woman and she is black.
While she eyes her comeback after taking time away from the game to focus on her first child, she recently starred in a Nike series tackling equality entitled “Until We All Win.”
Williams’ clip brings a distinct perspective, in no small part because she competes by herself, and her personality, and accomplishments, are the entirety of her brand.
Focusing on adversity while quietly touting her own accomplishments Serena offers in the 30-second spot:
I’ve never been the right kind of woman. Oversized, and overconfident. Too mean if I don’t smile. Too black for my tennis whites. Too motivated for motherhood. But I’m proving, time and time again, there’s no wrong way to be a woman.
While Serena entered the world of tennis initially due to her love of the game, she soon realized that her presence in the public eye no longer belonged solely to her. She has demonstrated courage in leveraging her role to effect social change through her willingness to speak on social issues, and her philanthropic activity.
Over time, I became much more conscious of the impact I had, and I became more conscious of what I had to do to make a difference.
The spot was created in honor of International Women’s Day on March 8, but the message remains timeless and powerful. A statement from Nike explains the ad’s intent is to “recognize and celebrate the contributions and achievements of women everywhere and share our belief in gender equality.”
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.