The Path I Choose Striving for enlightenment and the freedom of thought. Buddha always encouraged his followers to analyze his texts but never did he once force his ideals upon his followers. If I were to choose a religion I’d have to follow Buddhism. Buddhism offers a more liberal way of thinking, teaches compassion for all, and mastery of the mind. First, Buddhism is a religion with no dogmas or commandments. It offers freedom in one’s thinking. Buddha only encouraged his followers to analyze his teachings. They were never imposed. The two main pillars in Buddhism, “The Four Noble Truths” and “The Eightfold Path” offer a way for an individual to reach a point of enlightenment and “nirvana”. Buddhism applauds the gain of knowledge. “Buddhism depends more on understanding than faith (White)”. It offers a life that is much more noble, altruistic, and rewarding. The Eightfold Path explains what they strive for. “The Noble 8-fold Path is being moral (through what we say, do and our livelihood), focusing the mind on being fully aware of our thoughts and actions, and developing wisdom by understanding the Four Noble Truths and by developing compassion for others” (White.) Buddhism is regarded as one of the most tranquil religions out there. As a pacifist, my beliefs and Buddhist beliefs correlate well in everyday situations. “Compassion includes qualities of sharing, readiness to give comfort, sympathy, concern, caring. In Buddhism, we can really understand others, when we can really understand ourselves, through wisdom” (White). By acting selflessly an individual can alleviate all suffering.”Reaching the