Catholicism is filled with all kinds of meaningless, unchristian man made rules. We can agree on that.

No, freedom of religion does not mean freedom from religion. The Bill of Rights is very clear:

"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof"

Christianity is a faith of hope and love but also a faith of righteousness. It's not at all about finding your own path but of service to God by serving people.