1. Tashigi - One of the most human and endearing characters. Her climb towards her goals speak to me the most. A normal woman, facing the challenges of a nightmarish world, with more zeal and resolve after each challenge.
2. Zoro - A pillar of strength and loyalty within his crew. Works everyday to be the best he can be for himself and those he cares for.
3. Luffy - A Charismatic and genuine leader figure. Luffy is the definition of a feel good hero. He brightens everyone's day, like the sun. No matter the obstacle, Luffy faces it head on without fear and a cheerful attitude. And that, in turn, makes new friends and allies on his path.
4. Nami - When I first read One Piece long ago, she was my favorite, and still amongst my top. The heart and guide for Luffy on his quest. She's smart, funny, and while greedy, will look past that for her friends' sakes.
5. Kuma - The philosopher and silent guardian. Kuma is both inspiring and tragic.
6. Usopp - Similar to Tashigi, he's a very relatable/down to earth character. He's a normal boy trying to make something extraodinary out of his life. He cowers and doubts himself, but each hurdle ultimately leads him on the right path.
7. Smoker - The soldier with a renegade outlook. Despite his hard exterior, Smoker is a noble man who fights for what's right in his heart, even if it goes against his duties.
8. Issho - Issho is another man who fights for his own convictions. More carefree and sagely, he refuses to compromise his virtues and seeks to reform the organization he's made himself a part of. Oh, and he's Zatoichi. How could I not like him?
9. Crocodile - The ruthless mastermind and my favorite villain of the series. Crocodile had it all. The cunningness, power, and grandiose that came with being the series' first major bad guy. But even after he's beaten, there's still levels of intrigue to him. Such as his dubious past, and questionable moral alignments now that he's re-established himself as a notable figure in the world.
10. Rayleigh - He's the good old fashion mentor. Rayleigh best defines the old era legends, imo. He's seen it all, and understands the importance in carrying on what he and his peers have done. As a teacher in training, I seek to give and prepare the new generation like Rayleigh has.