When a Buddhist explains their belief system, they describe it as 'practising Buddhism'. They are moving towards being like Buddha. Their behaviour and actions are more than likely identified with this belief system that they identify with.
When a Christian speaks about their belief system, they call them selves 'a Christian'. They are Christ like. They model their life on that of Jesus Christ.
What is wrong with this?
When you say you are a Christian you leave very little room to make mistakes. And when you do (because you will), you open the door to unhelpful criticism and perhaps some shame that comes with that. You get down on yourself and feel judged and like a failure.
When a Buddhist makes a mistake, it's ok, because they know that was going to happen and never profess to being perfect. In my view, Buddhists allow themselves to show more self compassion. I've never heard anyone say "and you call yourself a Buddhist..." or "that's not very Buddha like". But how many times have you heard the same about Christians?
I think this is also the same when it comes to values. We never fully live all of our values all of the time, but we are always happier when we take actions that move us towards our values rather than away from them.
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