new dudeist priest here

[indeeddude]

Is there anything specific and common goal among us, that is measurable? Or do we simply strive in our own way to inflict a calm chillness around us?

[DigitalBuddha]

Is there anything specific and common goal among us, that is measurable? Or do we simply strive in our own way to inflict a calm chillness around us?

Perhaps perfecting the art of abiding?

[indeeddude]

Indeed

[YourDudness]

just go with the flow, dude

[Reverend Al]

Is there anything specific and common goal among us, that is measurable?

I believe most of us here see Dudeism as a path to a better, happier, more stress-free life; finding peace, serenity, and contentment by minimizing the amount of life's bullshit we have to deal with, and/or finding the best way to wade through it with the least amount of crap stuck to our shoes.  I'd say that's the "specific and common goal among us."  But that means different things to different people, so establishing a "universal yardstick" that everyone can use to measure their progress towards that "goal" is probably impossible.

Or do we simply strive in our own way to inflict a calm chillness around us?

I believe it's important to first inflict that calm chillness within ourselves.  Mahatma Gandhi, a wiser feller than myself, is quoted as saying, "You must be the change you wish to see in the world."  Now, this can be interpreted in different ways, but I believe this was his way of saying, "Lead by example."  You can't teach peace and tranquility if your own life is filled with agitation and chaos.  Strive to create those positive qualities within yourself and your life first, and you'll be an influence to those like-minded individuals around you.

[indeeddude]

I agree Al. Thought is an active process for me as I treasure a quiet mind. When I chose the word inflict it was because i believe that through subtle thoughtful action we can somewhat actively cause positivity in people as opposed to a baseline of distrust. I'm not out picketing picketers with a sing that says chill.