For the better part of a decade, Texans defensive lineman J.J. Watt has been the biggest name in Houston sports. In his time as a pro athlete, he’s worn that mantle well, reaching out selflessly for many charitable efforts, most notably a Hurricane Harvey relief fundraiser that raised a staggering $37 million for Houston-area residents affected by the storm.
And as a notable presence among Houstonians, it’s no surprise that he rubbed elbows often with another prominent personality in the city, former first lady Barbara Bush, who died April 17, 2018, at age 92. However, their relationship was more than a passing familiarity. The unlikely duo teamed up in 2014 to “tackle illiteracy,” with Bush going so far as to outfit herself in shoulder pads and eye black for the occasion.
To commemorate the mark she left on the city of Houston, as well as the world at large, Watt offered some very kind words about his time with Bush following news of her passing. In doing so, he also expressed gratitude for their years of friendship together.
The pro football star’s foundation offered a formal recollection of her outlook and philanthropy, complete with a selection of photos of the two prominent Houstonians together.
Say goodbye or make amends.Image via Canva - Photo by Inna Postnikova
Friends recording on a camcorder.Image via Canva - Photo by capturenow
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Wiman hiding her face behind a bunch of cashCanva
A mansion and its reflection in the swimming poolCanva
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Parents of young children get more time with them if they work from home.Photo credit: Canva
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.