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What do you think are the pros and cons to these?

^^; I can think of some being born into the religion. Sometimes I feel that I don't appreciate being born a Buddhist. I have never had to really, truely, struggle in life. So I can't always relate to my mom, who found and converted to this religion. But, I've noticed that my views on life and what is important as to what is not, differs from a lot of my friends and even family members, those who are not Buddhist. 3nodding

In my mind, it works better to convert. For one, if you choose to change your religion, you definitely know it's the right one for you. Whereas if you're born into it, maybe you'll never fully appreciate it. Of course, if a religion matches your beliefs, it matches your beliefs. Period. So if you're born into the right religion, then that's great.

I was raised Baptist, but I am now Wiccan.For years I'd though this religion was for me, but now Im having seciond thoughts, after 6 years of practicing Wicca. sad

I don't think this is Buddhism-specific, Rin, just a question of if being born into a religion is better than finding one for yourself. That is a good point, however. 3nodding

Well why are you having second thoughts? From what I understand (My two best friends are Pagan/wiccan) Wicca and Paganism are very flexible relgions. So it's not like you have to believe strictly in one thing?

I was left to find my own religion but I was of corse influenced by my parents christainity. I was christain for awhile (not a very good one mind you.. I picked and chose because I dident agree with some things. Im a science person.) but I lost what little faith I had to evolution and I have been athiest for the past 3 years. However recently I have started to explore many other religions, finding differnt ways.
I have always been open to others beleifs but I have never found one to suit me though I find many interesting or even very respectable. Buddhism I find highly respectable and I am starting to apply some of the teachings to my life. I dont think this makes me Buddhist and I dont know if this means I am finding a new way of life but only time holds the answer for that.

As a person who was born Christian and followed her own path, I believe that it's better to find your own path rather then just listen to what every one else says to believe in.

theres nothing more i can agree with. Its seems when im in my church being called apon as a "son of god", i find it interesting that christainanity has roots in judahism, and judahism has roots in budhhism. Religion is ones personal choice no matter what.