What began in Minnesota in 1991 with two charter schools has since expanded to reach 1.5 million kids in 5,000 charter schools across 39 states. And while California boasted more than 820 charter schools during the 2009-2010 school year, states like Washington, Maine, and Kentucky have not a one. (Currently, 11 states don't have a charter school law on the books.) Recently, the federal government created Race to the Top, a $4.35 billion competition, which encourages states to become more innovative and reform-friendly. One way that states can play along is by either raising or eliminating the cap on its allotment of high-quality charter schools. It should be noted that while charter schools receive taxpayer money, they have more autonomy than a traditional public school. And while they've captured the public's imagination, charter schools are hardly a silver bullet. By and large, much like their public school counterparts, some work exceptionally well, while others do not. As the uptick continues, the focus will be on expanding the models that show consistent results—and shuttering the ones that lack sufficient progress.
Click here to check out the full Charter Revolution infographic.
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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.