We are a wealthy nation with vast resources, yet we have been walloped by a microscopic thing that doesn’t have a single living cell. It certainly doesn’t process with a brain like us. How could such a simple thing wreck our lives and cause such havoc? The answer may lie within us. We think of […]

Author Archives: Philip Cobbs
Philip Cobbs was born and raised in Albemarle County, and his family lineage extends back at least four generations in the county. A graduate of Piedmont Virginia Community College, he is a craftsman, author, educator, businessman and farmer.
Commentary/Opinion: Truth is hard to find. What is reconciliation without it?
By now, truth is hard to find. It’s elusive and hidden in a world of attractive falsehoods. One must go looking for it with unselfish intent, otherwise they will be wowed by sirens singing irresistible tales. The search is difficult because nothing of value is found easily. Like prospectors of old seeking gold, we must […]
Commentary/Opinion: Video of police interaction on Rugby Road a wake-up call
When I watched the video of the police cam recording of their encounter with Mr. Hoffman, I became extremely upset. I knew this feeling all too well. It was one I’d felt many times. My heart pounded and tears welled in my eyes as I stared at a scene familiar to me. This reaction suddenly […]
Commentary/Opinion: ’Hoo Cares?
Recently, the word “care” has become one of the most common terms used to describe a feeling we all want. But what is care? As a noun, it is defined as: the provision of what is necessary for the health, welfare, maintenance and protection of someone or something. As a verb, its definition is: feel […]
We have understood climate better over time. What about race?
The Storm Some storms come with a warning; others come out of nowhere. I had no idea my life would be turned upside down that August morning in 2011 as I went out to water my blueberry plants. It was a calm respite in a hectic routine of preparing my mother for her weekly outing […]