Being a parent means never taking your focus off your kids. While posing on a bridge for a photo at Yosemite National Park, a dad managed to snag his daughter as she nearly took a tumble off the edge, averting a fall into the pond below.
Following the casual act of heroism, the little girl remains oblivious to the fate she narrowly avoided, quickly escaping her dad’s outstretched hand and marching toward her mom taking the video.
The parents found themselves a little more rattled after the event but quickly laughed off the close call. The couple laid out the scenario on the video’s YouTube page:
“We went on vacation to Yosemite in the summer of 2016. We thought we were going to pose for a daddy/daughter photo but turned into a memorable video. Wife accidentally had it on video mode. It was a scary moment, but as you can see we were able to laugh afterwards. We are thankful for each other and our lack of injuries.”
Even when posing, the dad had the good sense to keep a loose grip on the girl as she teetered near the edge. As she lost balance, that loose grip became a tight one, saving her from a plunge and, at the very least, a scare and some very wet clothes.
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.