Following a 'path' means that you have to guide yourself through the 'bumps' and 'stones' as you describe them. It's never easy, nothing in life is, that is the struggle that humankind faces.
In Islam, our purpose for being here is to worship and show thanks to Allah (God). His Word (Qur'an) gives us guidance on how to do that, and the examples of the Prophet Muhammad (Sunnah/Hadith) shows us how he did it.
There are people who adhere to no religion, yet consider themselves spiritual nonetheless. I find that moreso among Christians, especially the non-denominational. You will be hard-pressed to find a Muslim who doesn't attach herself to Islam as her way of life and look to the Qur'an and Sunnah for guidance. I think Muslims differ from the mainstream because Islam is an all-encompassing way of life, there are daily prayers and practices that are obligatory, and keep a person active in their religion, instead of just spiritually aware. It's more then a mental understanding, it involves all faculties of being.
I can only speak for Muslims, and perhaps even myself. We are all human, and even on our best days, we can get frustrated and overwhelmed. If a person believes in the fundamentals of a religion, then I think it's wrong to give up because it's hard or want to take an easier way. Allah tells us that we'll face hardship, and that the key is patience and being steadfast in our faith. It's sort of like being on a diet or exercise program. You know it's good for you, and if followed properly, you'll ultimately succeed --- yet you'll have hard days, and days you just want to give up, or skip the gym, or eat that junkfood. You have to perservere and slowly but surely you'll make it.
Hope that helped.
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