Maria von Trapp, please meet David Letterman and Merriam-Webster.  You have often graced us with your uplifting song, “… these are a few of my favorite things.” May I share with you a top-ten list of my favorite words, each the embodiment of a profound concept I cherish in my life?

1. Life
2. Freedom
3. Light
4. Faith
5. Integrity
6. Infinity
7. Identity
8. Innovation 
9. Compassion
10. Redemption

As often is the case, I find brevity to be more difficult than verbosity.  I place high value on many more concepts, but for today’s few moments of personal introspection, here is my short list.  What’s yours?