By Manal Ghosain

I often ask myself what is it that truly matters to me? Usually I start with a list of values ranging from freedom and creativity to family and connection.

What does it all mean? I feel like my values are just a bunch of words and abstract concepts.

For example, what does freedom mean exactly? To me it means that I can do what I want when I want to. Most of the time, I’m fortunate enough to do what I want. This of course is subject to life’s unexpected surprises and setbacks. There are also my frustrations and doubts which cast a shadow over what I get to do sometimes.

When I think about it, I feel that I’m not as free as I think I should be and that makes me question what I mean when I say I value freedom.

What does any value mean? How do we define what’s... More...