There was a (MTV sponsored) Youthtopia study conducted among 16-34 year-olds in seven European countries of the hopes and dreams that inspire youth today.  (h/t Marko and ypulse) Part of the study asked 100 European youths to “challenge, criticise and collectively re-write ‘The 10 Commandments’” as a way of illustrating generational shifts in values.

Now an automatic response might to review these and criticize how young people are not living up to their aspirations, but (as you remove the plank from your own eye) you might consider how well as a culture we are doing with the original ten.

Anyway, this list of ten promotes accountability, positivity and passion above all else. They reflect the declining impact of churches on young people in Europe, but each of these “commandments” can by quickly drawn into the Christian message:

1. Have faith in yourself.
2. Respect your parents.
3. Be honest.
4. Take responsibility for your own life.
5. Live life to the fullest and be passionate.
6. Keep your promises.
7. Work hard to succeed but not to the detriment of others.
8. Be tolerant of others’ differences.
9. Be happy and optimistic, even in adversity.
10. Create, don’t destroy

Is there one or more of these that you found surprising?