While many athletes delight in the recognition they receive from the press, the fallout from an upsetting loss can strain the relationship between a player and sports reporters. A bad day on the field for Marcus Mariota and his Tennessee Titans led to a terse press conference afterward in which the young quarterback carried an indignant tone throughout the mandatory event, offering little in the way of a response to the reporters questions.
In defense of Mariota, shifting gears from the agony of defeat to putting on a happy face for the media, isn’t something that comes naturally in the span of twenty short minutes between the two events. Nonetheless, much like Mariota did his job on the field, the reporters at the post-game presser are just doing theirs, so stonewalling them while moping through the motions, isn’t a great look for an athlete striving for stardom.
Here are his postgame remarks:
With the benefit of hindsight, many athletes would handle encounters such as this one differently, but when the moment passes, many just carry on hoping to learn from the experience. However, one Marcus Mariota fan demanded more.
When facing the press again days later, Mariota began his remarks with a humble apology for his impolite disposition following the previous week’s game. The QB stated on the record that his mom had seen his behavior during the press event and was none too thrilled for being “rude,” compelling him to issue a seemingly heartfelt public apology.
In this video, shared by the Titans, he apologizes in sheepish fashion, then carries on fielding questions about the team.
However, if you’re unable to watch the video, this photo of Mariota during the recent Q&A should adequately convey the impact of the guilt trip his mom sent him on.
Yeah, we’re all familiar with that look. It’s heartening to know that Mariota doesn’t even escape his mother’s judgment as a multi-millionaire athlete. Manners are manners, no matter what station you occupy.
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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.