Week three was an eventful one for the NFL. On Friday, President Donald Trump called NFL players who protest police brutality by sitting during the national anthem “sons of bitches” who should be fired. This resulted in dozens of players taking a knee during the pre-game ceremonies in days following.
Starting Pittsburgh Steelers left tackle Alejandro Villanueva received a lot of attention for standing in the tunnel with his hand over his heart during the anthem while his teammates stayed in the locker room.
Alejandro Villanueva, el portuense patriota que arrasa en la América de Trump https://t.co/GTXEmXRntQ pic.twitter.com/VzU3TnHU5r
— Antonio Valimaña (@AntonioValimana) September 25, 2017
Villanueva is a former Army Ranger who earned a Bronze Star medal and served three tours in Afghanistan. After his service, he joined the Philadelphia Eagles and then the Steelers in 2014.
Many fans responded positively to his gesture by purchasing his jersey, a rarity for an offensive lineman. Fanatics, the company that runs the NFL’s online store, said that Villanueva’s jersey was the most popular sold between Sunday and Monday. Even though he’s received some positive responses for his decision, Villanueva issued an apology on Monday.
Alejandro Villaneuva: "Every single time I see that picture of me standing by myself, I feel embarrassed."
— Chris Adamski (@C_AdamskiTrib) September 25, 2017
Alejandro Villanueva: "Unfortunately, I threw (my teammates) under the bus, unintentionally."
— Chris Adamski (@C_AdamskiTrib) September 25, 2017
To avoid any on-field controversy, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin asked his team to remain in the locker room during the national anthem on Sunday. “I was looking for 100 percent participation,” Tomlin said in a post-game press conference. “We were gonna be respectful of our football team.” Villanueva wasn’t bothered by kneeling teammates and said many have of those who did have expressed gratitude for his military service.
Al Villenueva: "Every single one of my teammates is extremely supportive and extremely patriotic. I can honestly said that."
— Chris Adamski (@C_AdamskiTrib) September 25, 2017
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.