While in Budapest for the World Masters Championship, Spanish swimmer Fernando Alvarez requested that the event’s governing body, FINA, allow for a 60-second moment of silence to honor the victims of the Barcelona attack last week. His request was denied. Alvarez said to El Español, "I went to the director of the competition ... but I was told that it was not possible because we could not lose a minute. It's something that has affected us all, but maybe because of the distance and because I have family there ... I really think it would have been a good thing to do."
Resolutely, Alvarez orchestrated his own tribute that would undoubtedly come at the expense of his success in the race.
After the starting signal went off and the other swimmers dove into the pool to compete in the 200-meter breaststroke, Alvarez remained atop his starting block for 60 long seconds, motionless save for raising one arm to the sky.
The world record in the 200-meter breaststroke is 2:06:67, set earlier this year by Ippei Watanabe. So a self-imposed 60-second handicap is tantamount to a forfeiture of the race. Despite that Alvarez finished so late — he wasn’t given an official finish time — he stood by his decision to put the victims ahead of his personal glory.
Speaking to El Español, Alvarez said of his late finish, “But I do not care, it was [more important] than if I won all the gold in the world.”
The sports world agreed.
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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.